What is Osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease that makes movement very difficult and painful for your family pet member. This chronic condition is usually seen with middle to older aged pets and is usually noticed when the pet doesn't jump or play as often. Although this disease manly effects older pets, younger ones can also affected. Studies have shown that 20% of dogs have this condition and although less common, cats can suffer with osteoarthritis as well. Limping is a sign that your pet is in pain; however the Doctors at Klima Small Animal Clinic can assist you in treatment of this disease and help to lessen the discomfort and increase the mobility of your dog.

Early Warning Signs

• Difficulty in climbing stairs, walking, or with cats, getting in and out of litter box.
• Slowness getting up from a  lying position
• Slow or stiff movement when walking or in cold weather
• Limping
• Resting or laying down more than normal
• Sudden or gradual decrease in activity
• Bunny hopping with hind legs instead of running
• Eating and grooming themselves less is seen with cats
• Swollen Joints that feel warm to the touch
• Biting or licking joints
• Your pet no longer likes to be touched

What are some of the causes of Osteoarthritis

Stress on  a joint possibly caused from

• An injury
• Regular wear and tear in joints
• Obesity adds to additional pressure on the joints
• Poor limb configuration, legs that are not normal
• Breed of dog, some breeds are prone to this condition
• Developmental defects