how Banfield can help your pet with osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint condition caused by cartilage degradation. It’s common in older dogs and cats, but it can also affect pets of any age. Historically, joint degradation has been an “old dog or cat” issue, but recent studies have shown that we need to be aware that it can affect younger pets too.

Though OA can be painful and limit your pet’s activities, the good news is there are ways to help stop the progression of the disease and manage your pet’s symptoms.

How Banfield can help with osteoarthritis

There are several ways to help you and your pet manage the condition:

Detection: When you bring your pet in for their appointment, we’ll identify whether or not they have OA through:

Comprehensive exams: Bringing your pet in for their twice-yearly comprehensive checkup helps us see if your pet is exhibiting signs of OA and talk with you about changes you’ve seen over the past months or year. We’ll also check their joints and gait.
X-rays: Radiographs can help identify a painful joint or crackling (otherwise known as crepitus). Radiographs can also help identify whether your pet is experiencing something other than arthritis, like an injury or cancer that might need other treatments, including surgery.

Monitoring: Through regular appointments, we’ll track how your pet’s symptoms are progressing and change their treatment plan if needed.

Custom treatment plan: We’ll create a custom treatment plan to help you and your pet manage their symptoms and stay on top of their weight. This plan may include:

Prescription medications to help protect healthy cartilage or increase fluid in the joints
Prescription pain relief
Therapeutic diets with antioxidants and essential fatty acids
Joint supplements that support cartilage
Regular exercise or physical therapy
Resources to help your pet maintain a healthy weight
Some arthritic pets benefit from a referral and consultation with a specialist who might recommend other therapies, including surgery.

Weight loss: We’ll determine your pet’s ideal weight through a comprehensive exam at their next appointment or, if it’s a virtual visit, we’ll have you take measurements of your pet. If we determine that your pet is overweight, we might make recommendations such as:

A diet that supports healthy weight and mobility
A weight loss plan
Types of exercises, including range-of-motion exercises
Massages
Physical therapy

24/7 support through Pet Chat™: Our 24/7 Pet Chat™, part of our Optimum Wellness Plans®, lets you connect with a veterinary professional for information on arthritis and determine whether a trip to your pet’s vet is a good idea.

Learn more about our awesome Optimum Wellness Plans here.