Arthritis Management

Arthritis isn’t just a human problem—our pets feel it too. Whether it’s your dog hesitating to jump on the couch or your cat moving more slowly, arthritis can greatly impact their quality of life. Understanding the causes, signs, and treatments can help you keep your furry friend moving comfortably for years to come.

Arthritis, derived from the Greek words arthro (joint) and itis (inflammation), involves inflammation and deterioration within one or more joints. While it often worsens with age, it can affect pets of all ages and breeds.

What Causes Arthritis?

Cartilage acts as a cushion and lubricant between joints, allowing bones to glide smoothly over one another during movement. This protective layer helps ensure pain-free motion and flexibility. When cartilage begins to wear down or break apart, that smooth surface is lost—causing bones to rub against each other. The resulting friction leads to pain, inflammation, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Immune-mediated arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, causes the immune system to attack the joints. This can lead to erosion of cartilage and bone, resulting in pain, stiffness, and in severe cases, complete joint immobility (ankylosis).

Septic arthritis, caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, often presents with fever, joint swelling, and severe pain—your pet may become lethargic, stop eating, or seem generally unwell.

There are several types of arthritis in pets, with Osteoarthritis (OA)—also known as Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)—being the most common. OA usually develops over time due to wear and tear on the joints or as a result of injury or abnormal joint conformation.

Common causes of Osteoarthritis include:
Obesity (extra weight puts more stress on joints)
Hip or elbow dysplasia
Cruciate ligament tears
Traumatic injury (ex. being hit by a car)
Genetic birth defects
General wearing of cartilage over time

Recognizing the Signs of Arthritis

Early detection can make a big difference in your pet’s comfort and long-term mobility. Watch for these common signs:

Treating Arthritis: A Tailored Approach

Not all arthritis is the same, and treatment will depend on the cause of arthritis. Whether your pet is struggling with immune-related joint disease, a joint infection, or age-related osteoarthritis, our goal is to improve their comfort, mobility, and quality of life through a personalized care plan.

Immune-Mediated Arthritis (e.g., Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus-Associated Arthritis):
These forms of arthritis occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. Treatment often includes high doses of corticosteroids (like prednisone), which can dramatically reduce inflammation and discomfort. Long-term management may involve immune-modulating drugs such as cytotoxic or immunosuppressive agents to control flare-ups and keep symptoms under control.

Septic Arthritis:
This is a painful and serious condition caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infection within the joint—often following a bite, injury, or systemic illness. Treatment involves identifying the specific microorganism and using targeted antibiotics for a minimum of four weeks. Pain relief is essential, and we may also recommend joint drainage or flushing in severe cases. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term joint damage.

Osteoarthritis (OA):
OA is the most common type of arthritis we see, especially in aging pets. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often the first line of defense for relieving pain and inflammation. However, not every pet tolerates these medications equally well. Side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss, so we always recommend pre-treatment bloodwork and yearly (or bi-annual) monitoring to ensure your pet can safely metabolize these drugs.

At North Star Veterinary Hospital, we believe that arthritis management is never one-size-fits-all. Medications like NSAIDs can be incredibly helpful—but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. We offer a variety of integrative therapies to support your pet’s mobility and comfort. You can choose as many or as few as fit your family’s needs and your pet’s specific condition.

1. Sedated X-rays

These allow us to get clear, accurate images while keeping your pet relaxed and comfortable. Sedation helps ensure proper positioning for the best diagnostic results.

2. Chiropractic Care

Using high-velocity, low-amplitude adjustments, chiropractic care helps restore joint motion and alignment. When joints move well, your pet feels and functions better. Movement is medicine!

3. Acupuncture

This ancient practice stimulates specific nerve points to help manage pain and improve neurologic function. Acupuncture is especially beneficial in pets with arthritis, nerve dysfunction, or chronic pain.

4. Analgesics & NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a cornerstone of arthritis pain relief. Because pets can be sensitive to side effects, we perform regular bloodwork to ensure safe long-term use.

5. Herbal Supplements

Herbal therapy can complement traditional medications, offering natural anti-inflammatory and healing benefits with fewer side effects. Ask our team about options tailored to your pet’s needs.

6. Joint Supplements

Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, DHA and EPA, help nourish joint cartilage and improve the lubrication of joints. We recommend Dasuquin Advanced, backed by independent research showing increased synovial fluid production.

7. Injectable Chondroitin

Given weekly for 6 weeks and then monthly, these injections support joint lubrication and cartilage repair. You can bring your pet in for appointments, or we can show you how to administer them at home.

8. Physical Therapy Days

Exercise improves mobility, coordination, and muscle memory. Drop your pet off for a day of customized therapy sessions focused on regaining fluid movement and building strength.

9. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy (photobiomodulation) uses light energy to stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and ease pain—like a warm ray of healing sunshine, without drugs or side effects.

10. Solensia & Librela

These innovative, once-monthly injections use monoclonal antibodies to block Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a major contributor to OA pain. Solensia is approved for cats, while Librela is for dogs. Both are well-tolerated, safe, and effective.

11. Pulse Therapy (Shockwave Therapy)

This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to stimulate healing, improve blood flow, and break down calcified tissue. It’s a promising option for pets with chronic joint or tendon issues and offers a surgery-free way to reduce pain.

Working Together for a Comfortable Future

Arthritis doesn’t have to mean the end of playtime or walks around the block. With the right treatment plan, your pet can continue to enjoy a vibrant, active life. Whether you’re ready to explore all options or just a few, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your pet’s unique needs and helps them feel their best.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about any of these treatment options, reach out to us today or schedule a consultation—we’d love to help you get started on a personalized arthritis care plan that puts your pet’s comfort and quality of life first.