Arthritis is not exclusive to people—pets of any age can also suffer from this painful condition. However, although arthritis is a progressive condition with no cure, much can be done to keep your four-legged friend mobile and comfortable. Treatment options range from traditional pharmaceutical products and alternative therapies to dietary supplements and weight management. 

If your pet has been diagnosed with arthritis, consider discussing the pros and cons of the following treatment options with your Milford Animal Hospital veterinarian. 

Medications for arthritis treatment in pets

Medications are generally the first therapy for managing arthritis discomfort in pets, and we can customize a treatment plan from a wide range of options. Drugs used to manage arthritis are generally divided into the following categories:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — NSAIDs focus on reducing inflammation associated with arthritis, and have long been first-line analgesics for arthritis pain management. These medications are effective at alleviating pain and inflammation but have the potential for side effects that commonly include vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence.
  • Pain-relieving medications — Pain relievers encompass a wide range of medications that act on various pain pathways in the body. The medications, which include opioids, gabapentin, pregabalin, amantadine, and ketamine, can block pain responses, manage chronic pain, or ease neuropathic pain, and may be administered orally, transdermally, or as an injection.
  • Disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) — A DMOAD is a medication that can slow or alter arthritis progression in pets by promoting joint health. One DMOAD used most commonly is an injection (i.e., Adequan) that contains polysulfated glycosaminoglycan, which slows cartilage breakdown, decreases inflammation, heals cartilage, and improves joint lubrication.
  • Anti–nerve growth factor monoclonal antibody — The anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) monoclonal antibody (mAb) targets and neutralizes the NGF, which is a potent pain generator in arthritic pets. These injections (i.e., Solensia, Librela) are administered once a month for as long as your pet shows arthritis signs.
  • Intra-articular injections — Injections of certain compounds (e.g.,  collagen, a tin colloid) administered directly into the affected joint can reduce inflammation, reinforce natural joint cartilage, and ease pain.

Surgery for arthritis treatment in pets

Severely arthritic pets may need surgical intervention, although the prognosis is variable and depends on the location and severity of the damaged joint. Surgical procedures used to alleviate arthritis pain and inflammation include joint fusion (i.e., arthrodesis), joint replacement, joint excision, and amputation.

Alternative therapies for arthritis treatment in pets

Alternative therapies are excellent treatment modalities that should be included in a multimodal arthritis management plan, because they provide many benefits with few side effects, and typically are non-invasive, drug-free, and surgery-free options.

Common alternative therapies used for arthritis management in pets include:

  • Physical therapy — Physical therapy exercises can improve joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles around affected joints.
  • Acupuncture — This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and inflammation.
  • Chiropractic care — Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct misalignments in the spine, potentially improving joint function and reducing pain.
  • Laser therapy — Low-level laser therapy can stimulate cell regeneration and reduce inflammation. 
  • Hydrotherapy — Water-based exercises, such as swimming or walking on an underwater treadmill, can provide a full-body workout while being gentle on joints. 

Regenerative medicine therapies for arthritic pets

Regenerative medicine therapies stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and can help restore damaged tissues. Pets with arthritis may benefit from the following regenerative medicine therapies:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy — PRP therapy involves processing the pet’s own blood to concentrate platelets, growth factors, and other beneficial components. The resulting plasma is injected directly into the diseased joint, spurring regeneration of damaged tissues.
  • Stem cell therapy — Stem cells are the body’s “original” cells—all other cells are generated from these cells. First, a stem cell sample from bone marrow or fat tissue is processed and the stem cells are then injected into the diseased joint, similar to the PRP therapy process. In the joint, they develop into cartilage, bone, ligaments, and tendons, effectively healing the damaged joint.

Lifestyle changes for arthritis treatment in pets

Modifying your pet’s lifestyle and environment is also hugely beneficial for managing arthritis pain and inflammation and improving mobility. Key ways to improve your arthritic pet’s quality of life include:

  • Weight management — Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for arthritic pets, as excess weight puts additional stress on joints and exacerbates arthritis signs. 
  • Joint supplements — Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, omega-3 fatty acids, and green-lipped mussels promote cartilage health and reduce joint inflammation. 
  • Prescription diet — Specialized prescription diets formulated for joint health may be beneficial, as they contain specific ingredients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, that support joint function.

Each pet responds differently to arthritis therapies, so what works for one household pet may not work for another. Schedule an appointment with our Milford Animal Hospital team to help your four-legged friend get back up on their paws.