Small Talk - Winter 2017

Joint Inflammation Have you noticed your dog getting a bit slower on walks or your cat grooming itself less often? Oste arthritis T his could be a sign that they are starting to develop osteoarthritis or OA as we refer to it. What is OA? Simply put, it is the inflammation (pain, heat, swelling) of a joint. More specifically OA has been described as the vicious cycle of deteriorating changes that result when the rate of damage of joint cartilage exceeds its ability to repair itself. With our ageing (and often weight gaining) pet population we are seeing a lot more cases of OA developing. An animal with a history of trauma or skeletal surgery will be more likely to develop OA as they age. It may start with a slowing down on walks or a subtle limp and progress to an increased effort getting out of bed or even walking with a pronounced limp or reluctance to exercise. Grumpiness, sleeping more and muscle wasting are also noticed by owners of animals with chronic OA. The best way to diagnose the condition in general practice is to perform a full clinical examination, paying particular attention to the joints in the limbs and the spine, and by taking radiographs (x-rays) of the affected area. Radiographs can highlight signs of joint changes, e.g. degeneration of joint surfaces, bony growths, joint swellings and other abnormalities. Joint tap analysis is also useful in some situations. Following a diagnosis of OA, your vet will discuss the condition with you and all the treatment options that are available. In some circumstances surgical options will be discussed along with weight management (to build muscle and lose additional fat), specifically tailored exercise regimes, medication, physiotherapy, acupuncture and hydrotherapy. We can give advice on how you can make your homes, and their environments, easier for your pet to move around and less likely to aggravate their condition and ultimately improve their quality of life. If you would like more information or suspect your pet might be suffering from OA please ask a member of staff and we can arrange a vet and nurse OA clinic for your pet at a time that suits you. By Laura Binnie BSc BVM&S MRCVS Paragon Veterinary Group