Canine arthritis – what exactly is it?
Canine arthritis is a term which describes inflammation of the joint. Like arthritis in humans, canine arthritis is a common joint disease which predisposes our furry friends to secondary joint changes that lead to joint pain and reduced joint mobility.
Canine arthritis is currently an incurable joint disease that veterinarians estimate affects at least one in five dogs. It is the main cause of chronic joint pain in dogs.
In this article, we explain what canine arthritis is and how it can be managed.
Canine Arthritis
Healthy joints allow your dog to run, swim, dig and play. So, how do previously healthy joints progress into canine arthritis?
Within a normal healthy joint, a smooth layer of cartilage, well lubricated by joint fluid, lines the ends of the bones that meet at the joint. This cartilage enables the bones to move freely at the joint without any friction.
As canine arthritis develops, the cartilage within the affected joint is gradually broken down, becoming thinner. Over time, inflammation cascades into swelling, the tissues around the joint thickening as the cartilage further degrades.
Together, these joint changes lead to stiffness within the joint, atrophy of the surrounding muscle and ultimately, pain.
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis in dogs, and the core focus of this article. While it can occur in any joint, it typically affects the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees.
Often caused by general wear and tear, osteoarthritis may also develop due to genetics, injury, or the presence of one of the following joint conditions:
- Hip or elbow dysplasia
- Rupture of the cranial crucial ligament (CCL)
- Osteochondrosis
There are numerous other types of canine arthritis, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Immune mediated arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Septic or infective arthritis
- Spinal stenosis, spondylitis, and spondylosis
Supporting Joint Health
Supporting your dog’s joint health from an early age is the best way to keep them active and healthy as the years go by.
- Feed a nutritious diet that is correctly balanced in protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote health and vitality from the inside out.
- Maintain a healthy weight by avoiding overfeeding and providing regular exercise to minimize the burden of weight gain on their joints.
- Routine veterinary check-ups are essential throughout your dog’s life to monitor their health and catch early signs of disease and degeneration.
- Consider adding a joint health supplement to their daily diet, such as 4CYTE™ Epiitalis® Forte Dog to promote optimum joint health.
4CYTE™ Epiitalis® Forte Dog
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