Elderly pets are more prone to age related arthritis than younger pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, pets with arthritis develop pain in the joints and often require medication or natural supplements to help alleviate the soreness and pain they feel. Other products can also help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.
AVMA recommends that you keep your pet comfortable with soft bedding. Give lots of love and attention and provide accommodations for feeding if necessary.
Orthopedic beds, stair steps to help your pet get up to higher places (so they don’t have to jump), raised feeding platforms, and other special accomodations can help make your arthritic pet’s life more comfortable.
Warming blankets may help soothe your elderly pet’s aching joints. And non slip surfaces or non skid socks may make it easier for your pet to get up more easily.
Lift harnesses and strollers can help you help your pet, regardless of their size or ability because their owners take some of the stress off their joints. For instance a lift harness can be used to help a pet up and down stairs, in and out of the car, or just getting outside to potty. Strollers are a great alternative for an older pet because they allow the pet to enjoy the outdoors, strolls in the park, etc. without added stress on their joints. A stroller is great for older pets with any type of joint pain, hip dysplasia or other leg issues such as growths, sores or even warts that may interfere with mobility.
In some cases, pets with arthritis may begin to soil themselves, so a waterless shampoo can help clean soiled areas between bathing.
There are some great joint supplements that can also help senior pets, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Other supplements can also help to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis in your pet. Use caution when selecting a supplement because some can interfere with medications your pet may be taking.
If your elderly pet develops symptoms of arthritis, or if you suspect your pet is in any pain or discomfort, take him to the vet for a diagnosis and evaluate different treatment options.
We highly recommend pet insurance for parents of elderly pets. Arthritis is a very treatable condition that many elderly pets develop and pet insurance can often help pay for many of the treatments, medications or surgical procedures your vet may recommend. Visit our pet insurance facts page to learn more about pet insurance for senior pets. It’s important that you purchase pet insurance BEFORE your pet is diagnosed with an illness because most pet insurance companies don’t cover pre-existing conditions.
There are a wide variety of pet products available to help a senior pet suffering from arthritis. Below are some examples of pet products that may help an arthritic pet. We do not endorse or promote any of these products or companies. Products are listed for demonstration purposes only based on available information at the time of publication. You should always consult with your vet before purchasing pet products for your pet.you
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