Keeping Cats and Dogs joints supple and aiding comfortable movement this winter

Joint problems are very common and can even affect younger animals. General wear and tear on the joints at a young age can result in dogs presenting with joint pain before they are considered geriatric. Cats however are more prone to joint pain in their older years. Joint pain can significantly affect day to day life. See our previous blog on ‘Oesteoarthritis’ for more information.

Joint discomfort is generally associated with getting older, and is treated as a fact of life. However we can help your pets remain comfortable and support them throughout their older years. Our vets will be able to assess the level of discomfort in your pets joints in a consult and advise you appropriately.

Firstly the Vets would discuss with you any changes you have noticed and check your pet over. Our Vets will be able to assess the joints through manipulation.

Your pet may need Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, other forms of pain relief and even X-rays.

If necessary our vets will recommend Synoquin EFA a specially blended supplement to help support joints. It provides nutritional support to the joints to help facilitate the production of healthy cartilage and help aid comfortable movement.

At Jurassic vets we will only be stocking Synoquin EFA. As there are many other products on the market, we will order others in on request. Please give us 24 hours

Both cats and dogs are unable to tell us if they are in pain. It is therefore our responsibility to notice any signs. Some may be obvious, but others can be very subtle.

Here’s what to look out for:

Limping

Stiffness

Reluctance to exercise normally

Difficulty getting up

Difficulty jumping up

Altered walking gait

Scuffed claws

Excessive licking of the limb or joint

Behaviour changes

Difficulty toileting

Wanting to hide

Helping support joints nutritionally can be combined with exercise management, dietary changes and adjunctive methods.

For more information give the practice a call or book an appointment with one of our vets.