Health

Dogs and cats

Arthritis (osteoarthritis)

Arthritis is a painful, long-term joint condition that is very common in older dogs and cats. Signs come on slowly and are easy to mistake for 'just getting old', especially in cats, which hide pain well. Arthritis cannot be cured, but pain relief from your vet, weight control and home changes can make a big difference.

What you might notice

• Stiffness after rest, or slowing down on walks.
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs or get into the car.
• Cats sleeping more, hiding, or no longer jumping onto high places.
• Matted fur on the back in cats, which find grooming painful.
• Grumpiness when touched, or licking sore joints.

Common causes

• Normal wear and tear with age.
• Hip or elbow dysplasia or other joint shape problems.
• Old injuries.
• Being overweight.

What you can do at home

• Give short, regular, gentle exercise rather than one long walk.
• Provide soft, warm beds away from draughts.
• Use rugs or non-slip mats on slippery floors.
• For cats, add ramps or steps and a litter tray with a low side.
• Keep your pet at a healthy weight.

Book a vet in the next day or two if

• Any signs of stiffness, slowing down or reluctance to jump.
• Pain that seems poorly controlled on current treatment.
• Changes in toileting, grooming or mood in an older pet.

Don't

• Never give human painkillers; paracetamol can kill cats and ibuprofen is toxic to dogs and cats.
• Do not assume slowing down is just old age.
• Do not replace prescribed treatment with supplements alone.

Prevention

• Keep pets lean throughout life.
• Avoid sudden bursts of very hard exercise.
• Have regular senior check-ups so early signs are spotted.

This guide gives general information about common health problems in dogs and cats. It is not a diagnosis and it does not replace an examination by a veterinarian. Every animal is different, and signs that look mild can sometimes hide a serious problem, especially in cats, which often hide illness and pain. If you are worried about your pet, or if your pet shows any of the warning signs listed here, contact your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic straight away. Never give your pet human medicines or any medicine not prescribed for that animal by a vet.