{"id":52,"date":"2024-05-08T19:50:57","date_gmt":"2024-05-09T00:50:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.xroadsanimalhospital.com\/blog\/?p=52"},"modified":"2025-02-10T13:22:50","modified_gmt":"2025-02-10T18:22:50","slug":"joint-pain-and-arthritis-in-senior-pets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.xroadsanimalhospital.com\/blog\/joint-pain-and-arthritis-in-senior-pets\/","title":{"rendered":"Joint Pain and Arthritis in Senior Pets"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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An active pet is a healthy pet, but what happens when it hurts to move? Many pets suffer from joint pain, although this diagnosis is more common in older pets and larger breeds. The aging process is a lengthy and gradual one, and joint pain and arthritis in senior pets can have subtle symptoms. When you know how to spot what\u2019s going on, straightforward, effective treatment can improve vitality and quality of life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t Let It Go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of joint pain can come and go, depending on activity levels, the weather, and a pet\u2019s general lifestyle. However, untreated pain can worsen over time and may lead to even more severe health conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some cases of joint pain in dogs are simply due to genetics. Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are genetically predisposed to various joint conditions. Other cases of joint pain in pets can be explained by injuries or improper development in youth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Degenerative Joint Disease<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arthritis is the result of wear and tear on the spongy cartilage between joints. Over time, the cartilage no longer protects the joints, causing tremendous pain and sensitivity. Most middle-aged and senior pets experience some level of tenderness, but because larger breeds put more weight on the joints, they are prone to the acute symptoms of joint pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Catching It Early<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cats will try to hide any signs of pain, and dogs will try to play right through their symptoms. Allowing a pet to continue with their daily routine of running or jumping can make their condition worse. We encourage pet owners to keep their senior pets moving as much as possible, but any of the following signs should be quickly addressed<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n