Arthritis (osteoarthritis)
Inflammation and degeneration of joint cartilage causing chronic pain and reduced mobility. The most common cause of pain in older dogs and cats — and widely under-diagnosed.
Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint condition where cartilage wears, bony changes develop, and the joint becomes painful and stiff. It is one of the most common conditions in pets over middle age — surveys suggest 20% of dogs over 1 year and 60–90% of cats over 12 have radiographic signs.
Signs in dogs: slow to rise, stiff for the first few minutes after rest, reluctance on stairs, shorter walks, irritability when touched on the affected area. Signs in cats are much more subtle: less jumping, hesitating before jumping, sleeping in lower spots, less grooming the back end, increased grumpiness.
Treatment is layered. Weight management is the highest-impact single intervention — every kilogram off an arthritic dog measurably reduces pain. Joint-supportive diet, omega-3 fatty acids, monthly injectable therapies (Cartrophen/Zydax in dogs, Solensia in cats — a step change for feline arthritis), oral NSAIDs, and physical therapy or hydrotherapy all play roles.
Home environment matters: non-slip rugs, ramps to favourite spots, lower-sided litter trays for cats, orthopaedic beds, and gentle daily exercise rather than weekend warrior bursts.