As our pets get older, their bodies go through changes—just like ours do. One of the most common age-related issues we see in senior pets at Norgate Animal Hospital is arthritis. If your furry friend seems a little stiffer, slower, or less playful these days, it might not just be “old age.” It could be arthritis, and the good news is there’s a lot we can do to help them feel more comfortable.
Let’s walk through the signs, what’s really happening in those joints, and how you, as a loving pet owner, can manage it.
What Is Arthritis in Pets?
Arthritis is a painful inflammation of the joints. It happens when the cushioning cartilage between the bones wears down, causing bones to rub against each other. This creates pain, stiffness, and swelling. It’s most common in older pets, but it can also develop in younger animals, especially if they’ve had injuries or are genetically predisposed.
We often see arthritis in:
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Hips
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Knees
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Elbows
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Shoulders
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Spine
Both dogs and cats can get it — though cats are masters at hiding pain, making it tricky to spot.
Symptoms of Arthritis in Older Pets
Since pets can’t tell us where it hurts, it’s up to us to notice the little changes. Here’s what to watch for:
In Dogs:
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Limping or favoring one leg
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Stiffness when getting up or lying down
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Slower walks or reluctance to go for walks
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Trouble climbing stairs or jumping into the car
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Less interest in playing
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Irritability when touched near sore areas
In Cats:
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Reluctance to jump onto furniture or counters
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Sleeping more than usual (even for a cat!)
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Hesitation or stiffness when getting up
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Poor grooming habits (especially around sore joints)
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Avoiding the litter box if it’s hard to access
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s worth scheduling a check-up. You can give us a call at 604-980-2222 — our team at Norgate Animal Hospital is always ready to help figure out what’s going on and offer relief.
How to Manage Arthritis in Pets
While arthritis can’t be “cured,” it can definitely be managed to improve your pet’s quality of life. Here’s how we approach it:
1. Veterinary Care and Diagnosis
First, it’s important to confirm that arthritis is the issue. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we perform a physical exam and may recommend X-rays to see the extent of joint changes. This helps us build a customized care plan for your pet.
2. Pain Management
Controlling pain is a top priority. Depending on the severity, we might recommend:
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Anti-inflammatory medications
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Pain relievers specific for pets (never give human medications without your vet’s advice — some can be toxic to animals)
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Joint supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin to support cartilage health
We carefully tailor medication plans to each pet’s needs and medical history.
3. Weight Management
Extra pounds mean extra pressure on sore joints. If your pet is carrying a little extra weight, even a small weight loss can make a big difference. We offer nutrition counseling at Norgate Animal Hospital to help you choose a diet plan that supports healthy weight loss and joint health.
4. Low-Impact Exercise
While it might seem kinder to let your pet rest, gentle, consistent movement is crucial to keep joints mobile and muscles strong.
Great options include:
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Short, frequent walks for dogs
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Interactive play sessions for cats with toys or food puzzles
We’ll help you figure out the right level of activity for your pet’s condition.
5. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Depending on your pet’s needs, we might recommend exercises or stretches to improve mobility. Some pets benefit from professional physical therapy or hydrotherapy (water-based exercise that’s easy on the joints).
6. Environmental Adjustments
A few small changes around your home can make life a lot easier for an arthritic pet:
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Soft bedding in easy-to-reach spots
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Pet ramps for furniture or cars
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Non-slip rugs or mats to prevent slipping
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Easily accessible litter boxes for cats
We often help pet owners brainstorm simple, affordable changes like these during visits at Norgate Animal Hospital.
When Should You Call the Vet?
If you notice your pet:
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Struggling to stand or move
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Showing signs of pain or irritability
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Avoiding activities they used to enjoy
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Having trouble with stairs or getting in and out of the litter box
It’s time to give us a call at 604-980-2222. The sooner we catch arthritis, the sooner we can ease their discomfort.
Arthritis might be common in older pets, but that doesn’t mean they have to suffer in silence. With proper care, medication, diet, and some thoughtful changes at home, your pet can stay comfortable and happy for years to come.
At Norgate Animal Hospital, we treat your pets like family — because they are. If you have questions, need advice, or are ready to schedule a wellness check, don’t hesitate to reach out at 604-980-2222. We’re here to help keep those tails wagging and purrs coming, no matter your pet’s age
