Home | Medical Info | Pet Arthritis Pain Management Guide
Pet Arthritis Pain Management Guide
Keywords:
Understanding Arthritis in Pets
Arthritis is a progressive and painful joint condition that commonly affects pets as they age. It causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and decreased mobility, leading to discomfort and a reduced quality of life. Early detection and a proactive pain management plan are essential to keeping your pet comfortable, active, and happy.
Signs of Arthritis in Pets
Common Symptoms in Both Dogs and Cats:
Difficulty standing up, jumping, or climbing stairs
Stiffness or limping, especially after rest
Reduced interest in playing or exercise
Behavioral changes like irritability or withdrawal
Licking or chewing at joints
Muscle loss due to reduced activity
Changes in posture or reluctance to move
How to Recognize If My Cat is in Pain
Cats are experts at hiding pain, making it essential to watch for subtle signs.
Common Signs of Pain in Cats:
Changes in Mobility – Hesitation to jump, difficulty climbing, or stiffness.
Altered Grooming Habits – Excessive licking or neglecting grooming.
Vocalization – Increased meowing, yowling, or growling.
Hiding or Avoiding Interaction – Seeking isolation or reacting negatively to touch.
Changes in Appetite – Reduced eating due to discomfort.
Litter Box Issues – Avoiding the litter box due to pain-related mobility issues.
How to Recognize If My Dog is in Pain
Dogs express pain in different ways, but subtle changes in behavior or activity can indicate discomfort.
Common Signs of Pain in Dogs:
Limping or Stiffness – Difficulty standing, climbing stairs, or reluctance to move.
Whining, Panting, or Restlessness – Signs of distress and discomfort.
Reduced Appetite – A sudden disinterest in food can indicate pain.
Excessive Licking or Chewing – Focused on a painful area.
Avoiding Social Interaction – Less playful, hiding, or showing aggression when touched.
Changes in Posture – Hunched back, difficulty sitting, or shifting weight.
Featured Resources

We Welcome New Patients!
We're always happy to give your furry friend care at our hospital. Get in touch today!
Contact UsAdvanced Arthritis Pain Management for Pets
At Canton Animal Hospital, we offer a comprehensive pain management plan tailored to your pet’s needs, especially for chronic arthritis cases requiring long-term care.
Monoclonal Antibody Therapy
Solensia® for Cats – A revolutionary monthly injection that blocks pain signals for up to 30 days.
Librela® for Dogs – A safe and effective monthly injection targeting nerve growth factor (NGF) to relieve arthritis pain without NSAIDs.
Intra-Articular Joint Injections
Synovetin OA® for Dogs – A single intra-articular injection offering up to one year of pain relief by reducing joint inflammation at the source.
Steroid Joint Injections – Direct anti-inflammatory relief for advanced arthritis, helping reduce swelling and discomfort in severely affected joints.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections – Improves joint lubrication and mobility, especially for aging pets with severe osteoarthritis.
Medication & Pain Relief Therapies
NSAIDs & Opioids – Short-term pain relief for moderate to severe arthritis cases, prescribed based on your pet’s overall health.
Monitoring & Managing Chronic Arthritis Medications
Routine Bloodwork & Organ Function Tests – Long-term NSAID and opioid use require regular monitoring of liver and kidney function.
Blood Pressure & Cardiovascular Assessments – Ensuring safety when using pain medications in senior pets.
Gastrointestinal Monitoring – NSAIDs can cause stomach irritation, so we monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite.
Dosage Adjustments – Medications are regularly reviewed to maintain effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
Supportive Arthritis Care
Joint Supplements (Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Omega-3s) – Supports joint health and mobility, slowing the progression of arthritis.
Weight Management & Diet Planning – Reduces stress on joints, helping to manage chronic pain naturally.
Physical Therapy & Low-Impact Exercise – Strengthens muscles around joints to enhance mobility and prevent further deterioration.
Laser Therapy & Acupuncture – Non-invasive alternative pain relief options, proven to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing in arthritic joints.
Customized Home Care Plans – Recommendations on bedding, mobility aids, and environmental modifications to improve comfort and ease daily activities for arthritic pets.
Call us today to discuss the best arthritis pain management plan for your pet!
Why Choose Canton Animal Hospital for Pet Arthritis Care?
Expert Pain Management Solutions – Cutting-edge treatments tailored for chronic joint pain.
Monoclonal Antibody Therapy (Solensia®, Librela®) & Synovetin OA® – Innovative, long-term arthritis treatments.
Customized Treatment Plans – Focused on maximizing mobility and comfort.
Compassionate, Experienced Team – Dedicated to enhancing your pet’s quality of life.
State-of-the-Art Veterinary Facility – Equipped with advanced pain relief technologies.
Helping Pets Live Pain-Free, One Step at a Time
Featured Resources

We Welcome New Patients!
We're always happy to give your furry friend care at our hospital. Get in touch today!
Contact UsFrequently Asked Questions About Pain Management for Pets
Managing your pet’s pain effectively is crucial for their well-being. Below are answers to common questions about pain relief options, and post-surgical care to ensure your pet stays comfortable and healthy.