We specialize in senior pet care at Our Pet Vets in San Diego, CA, or La Mesa, CA. Our resident veterinarian, Dr. Dorota Pearson, can diagnose this condition during a pet exam appointment and provide the best possible care.
Pet Arthritic Symptoms
Arthritis is a disease in which wear and tear on the joints causes them to degrade and cause severe pain and difficulty moving over time. The longer arthritis treatment is put off, the worse it will be for your pet. If your pet displays any of the following symptoms, bring them in for a pet exam as soon as possible. They are likely to be in pain!
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Difficulty jumping on furniture
- Tenderness in the legs
- Stiffness
- Muscular wasting
- Narrow rear limb stance
Arthritic Diagnosis
When you bring your pet in for an exam, your veterinarian will first examine the joints for potential sources of pain. They will then perform x-rays for joint abnormalities, inflammation, and other arthritis-related issues. After this is complete, your vet will have obtained enough information to give a conclusive diagnosis of your pet's condition. Next, they will formulate a treatment plan unique to your pet's needs.
Pet Arthritis Treatment
Arthritis treatment depends on the location and severity, so treatment doesn't look the same for every pet. Weight management and proper nutrition are critical, as excess weight strains the joints, and food is vital to joint health. Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or CBD oil to manage swelling, pain, and further joint damage. Light exercise and even pet physical therapy can help treat arthritis! Arthritis management is a standard part of senior pet care, and our pet specialists will prevent further damage.
Schedule an Appointment with Us
If you suspect your pet may suffer from arthritis, get them in for a pet exam as soon as possible to minimize suffering. Be consistent with home care, as producing the optimal outcome for your pet is vital. To schedule an appointment with us here at Our Pet Vets, call us at (619) 225-8000 to reach our San Diego, CA, location or at (619) 463-9861 to contact our La Mesa, CA, location.
