Osteoarthritis is a common condition in senior pets that can significantly affect their quality of life. Below, we explain what osteoarthritis is, its symptoms, and how to care for pets living with this condition.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects the joints. It is characterized by inflammation, pain, and loss of mobility due to the progressive deterioration of cartilage, which is responsible for absorbing impact and enabling smooth joint movement.
The joints most commonly affected are the knee, hip, and elbow. While this condition is more common in older pets, it can also develop earlier in life due to genetic factors or lifestyle-related causes, such as hip dysplasia.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis in pets
Algunos de los síntomas más comunes pueden ser: It is important to watch for signs that may indicate your pet is suffering from osteoarthritis. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Reduced activity levels. Pets may struggle to get up, a sign that is often mistakenly attributed to aging.
- Difficulty jumping or climbing stairs. They may attempt these activities and fail due to reduced strength.
- Excessive licking of joints. This is often an attempt to relieve discomfort.
- Irritability. Some pets may avoid being touched because of pain.
- Reduced expressiveness in cats. Cats may move less and appear withdrawn or irritable.
Caring for senior pets
Pets are living longer and enjoying better quality lives thanks to improved care, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary attention. Cats and small dogs often spend more than half of their lives as senior pets, typically from the age of 7 to 8 years onward.
For this reason, osteoarthritis is one of the most common health issues in senior pets, affecting more than 20% of them. The condition can significantly reduce their quality of life due to pain and decreased mobility.
Recommendations for caring for pets with osteoarthritis
To help maintain the quality of life of pets affected by osteoarthritis, the following practices are recommended:
- Prevent obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the joints.
- Avoid slippery floors. This helps prevent insecurity, slipping, and painful movements.
- Use orthopedic or adapted bedding. Proper support promotes restful sleep.
- Encourage gentle, regular exercise. This helps maintain mobility and strengthen muscles.
- Provide ramps. Ramps make it easier for pets to access their favorite places.
- Use joint health supplements. These may help reduce discomfort and support joint function.
- Consult your veterinarian. They can provide tailored advice and prescribe anti-inflammatory treatments when appropriate.
Treatments for osteoarthritis in pets
The treatment of osteoarthritis is multifactorial, and there are many options available that can be adapted to each animal’s needs. In addition to anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your veterinarian when necessary, such as Adocam, which helps reduce pain and inflammation, other therapeutic options include:
- Physiotherapy: Performed by specialized veterinarians to improve mobility and reduce inflammation through a range of techniques.
- Laser therapy: Provides analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Hydrotherapy: Conducted in facilities equipped for rehabilitation, helping pets strengthen the muscles around affected joints while reducing impact and load.
- Alternative therapies: Treatments such as acupuncture have demonstrated effectiveness in some studies for reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis.
Preventing osteoarthritis in young pets
Large-breed dogs and certain breeds, such as the German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and Rottweiler, are predisposed to developing osteoarthritis before reaching old age.
Nutrition and lifestyle play a key role in preventing the early onset of this disease.
- Provide a balanced, high-quality diet with ingredients that support optimal joint health.
- Prevent obesity by carefully measuring daily food portions according to each pet’s individual needs.
- Encourage regular, moderate exercise to strengthen the muscles that support the joints and help maintain a healthy weight while avoiding excessive strain.
- Avoid slippery and unstable surfaces, as frequent slipping can increase the risk of joint damage.
- Specific nutritional supplements such as ComPet Condro de Calier, a chondroprotective product that provides the necessary nutrients for healthy cartilage.
- Schedule regular veterinary check-ups, including X-rays and thorough examinations to assess joint health and identify early signs of osteoarthritis.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of sharing life with a pet. More and more families consider their pets as valued members of the household. Understanding common diseases such as osteoarthritis is crucial for providing the care and attention pets need, allowing us to continue enjoying their companionship for years to come.
Calier is committed to the health and well-being of companion animals, offering quality products for a wide range of conditions.
05 Aug 2026
