Arthritis Care
As our faithful companions age, you may notice their steps seem slower, their rush to greet you at the door fading, or their energy not quite what it once was. As pets age, they may develop arthritis, making their joints stiff, swollen, or painful. This can make movement uncomfortable or limited.
Why is my older pet moving more slowly?
Arthritis is a common condition in older cats and dogs where the joints become stiff, swollen, or painful. It happens when the smooth cartilage that cushions the bones begins to wear down, making movement harder and more uncomfortable. Pets with arthritis may walk more slowly, have trouble climbing stairs, hesitate to jump, or seem less playful.
Why should I bring my pet in to discuss arthritis care?
Our pets are masters at hiding pain and discomfort. Changes in mobility in our older cat and dog companions may point to conditions like arthritis. Arthritis can cause your pet to experience daily pain and limited mobility, and affect their overall happiness. While arthritis can’t be cured, it can be managed. Left unmanaged, arthritis can lead to weight gain, muscle loss, and a reduced quality of life.
What does arthritis care look like at Hosanna Animal Hospital?
At Hosanna, we take a whole-pet approach. Instead of only relying on medications, we combine gentle, natural therapies with traditional care when needed. Your pet’s plan may include:
- Acupuncture to stimulate healing, improve circulation, and provide natural pain relief.
- Lifestyle adjustments like softer bedding, ramps instead of stairs, or shorter, more frequent walks.
- Medication when needed. We can still use modern pain relief, but often in smaller doses because holistic care supports the body in other ways too.
- Regenerative Medicine: We can encourage the body’s natural healing process by using advanced options like AniCell, which collects stem cells from amniotic fluid. Regenerative medicine can be especially effective in treating arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, bone conditions, and even wound healing, helping restore comfort and mobility in ways that go beyond traditional care.
- Supplements and joint-support products like omega-3s or glucosamine to protect cartilage and ease stiffness.
- Weight and nutrition support can help your pet maintain a healthy weight, and food can be used as medicine to reduce inflammation.
At Hosanna Animal Hospital, our ultimate goal is to help your pets enjoy their golden years with less pain, more joy, and greater freedom.