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(520) 572-8300
7555 W Twin Peaks Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85743

Signs of Arthritis in Pets

Signs of Arthritis in Pets

Arthritis is a common ailment in middle-aged to older pets. Even younger pets can suffer from arthritic changes. These changes within the affected joints can be painful for your pet. If you notice some of the common signs of arthritis in your pet, you should bring them in to see a veterinarian at Twin Peaks Veterinary Center in Tucson. Below are some of the red flags that you may observe.

Limping

You may see your pet favoring one or more of their legs or limping, depending on which joints are affected. In some cases, the limp can be worse when your pet first gets up and then becomes less noticeable as your animal moves around and warms up.

Trouble Moving

Your pet can be reluctant to move and do things that were once easy. Your dog can find it has trouble getting in and out of the car or your cat may stop jumping to high areas due to discomfort and pain.

Spinal Problems

Arthritis doesn’t only occur in the legs but it can also affect different parts of the spine. The changes can mean a sore neck or abnormal posture, including a hunch in the back.

Tiredness

You may notice that your pet tires more easily than before. For dogs, this means that walks are shorter and your pet spends more time resting and sleeping.

Irritability

Arthritis in pets causes irritability. Your pet may bite or snap when handled or approached, especially if they are being handled in a way that increases their pain.

Muscle Atrophy

A pet that has atrophied muscles will have a leg that appears thinner than normal.

Biting, Licking, or Chewing

Pets that have arthritis sometimes begin to chew, bite, or lick the areas that are painful. This can reach the point that it is causing the skin to be inflamed, as well as cause hair loss.

Visiting Your Local Veterinarian

Arthritis can’t be cured but there are other procedures and remedies that can help ease the pain for your pet. Even with these signs listed, arthritis can be hard to spot without regular visits to your veterinarian. Call Twin Peaks Veterinary Center in Tucson at (520) 572-8300 if you think your cat or dog is suffering from arthritis.