Just like their pet parents, animals can experience painful medical conditions that require the help of a veterinarian experienced in joint pain and arthritis. At Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation & Therapy in Des Moines, we have a qualified and experienced staff to provide those services with a smile.
About Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Cats
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that can affect cats and dogs. It is also referred to as degenerative joint disease. With this condition, the cartilage that lines the bone begins to deteriorate, and the fluids that surround the area begin to thin out, causing the bones to constantly rub together. This results in the area becoming inflamed and leading to stiffness and pain. Osteoarthritis (OA) worsens over time. It is progressive and degenerative.
Signs of Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Cats
The signs that signal osteoarthritis include:
• No longer wanting to play or go for walks
• Licking specific joints
• Restlessness
• Avoidance of standing up
• Swollen joints
• Shuffling instead of walking
• Showing signs of aggression
• Irritability
Signs of osteoarthritis in cats are basically the same as those for dogs. Your kitty will experience decreased joint movement, and in some situations, bone spurs may form. It is estimated that 90 percent of senior cats, ages 12 and over, will be affected by osteoarthritis. If your pet is exhibiting any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our veterinarian for a full wellness exam.
Our veterinarian will discuss with you the treatments and strategies available to manage your pet's medical condition versus curing it. With our help and guidance, we will design a plan of action to support your pet's comfort and functionality while keeping pain to a minimum.
This will include bringing your pet to our clinic for regularly scheduled visits to evaluate the status of your pet's health and determine at what level the osteoarthritis has progressed. If necessary, our vet will modify/adjust the current treatment plan to accommodate any changes to your pet's level of health.
Other Services
At our animal hospital, we provide a variety of services to help keep your pet moving in the right direction toward good health.
Our services include:
• Rehabilitation
• Sports Medicine
• Integrative or Holistic Medicine
• Weight Management
Contact Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation & Therapy in Des Moines, IA
Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation & Therapy is focused on your pet's health at all times. Call us at (515) 575-9655 on Monday from 2:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m., Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.