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Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage within a joint gradually wears away. As this cushioning is lost:

 

• Bones rub against each other

• Inflammation develops within the joint

• Movement becomes painful and restricted

 

 

Over time, this can lead to muscle loss, reduced activity, and changes in behaviour.

 

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Which Pets Are Affected?

 

 

Osteoarthritis can affect any age or breed, but it is more common in:

 

• Senior pets

• Larger or heavier dogs

• Pets with previous joint injuries

• Animals with hip or elbow dysplasia

• Overweight pets

 

 

Cats are also commonly affected, although they often hide pain more subtly than dogs.

 

 

 

 

Signs of Osteoarthritis

 

 

Pets experience pain differently, and signs may be gradual and easy to miss, especially early on.

 

Common signs include:

 

• Stiffness, especially after rest

• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks

• Slowing down or tiring more quickly

• Lameness or limping

• Difficulty getting up or lying down

• Changes in posture or gait

• Reduced grooming (particularly in cats)

• Behaviour changes such as irritability, withdrawal, or restlessness

 

 

If you notice any of these changes, your vet can assess whether osteoarthritis may be contributing.

 

 

 

 

Diagnosis and Veterinary Support

 

 

Your regular veterinarian will diagnose osteoarthritis based on:

 

• A physical examination

• Your observations at home

• X-rays or other imaging where appropriate

 

 

Because osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, treatment plans are often adjusted over time to suit your pet’s needs and comfort.

 

 

 

 

Management and Treatment Options

 

 

There is no single approach that suits every pet. Most osteoarthritis plans involve a combination of treatments, which may include:

 

• Pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medications

• Joint supplements or specialised diets

• Weight management

• Controlled exercise and physiotherapy

• Environmental changes (ramps, soft bedding, non-slip flooring)

 

 

Your vet will guide you on what is safest and most effective for your individual pet.

 

 

 

 

Quality of Life Considerations

 

 

With good support, many pets with osteoarthritis continue to enjoy:

 

• Gentle walks

• Comfortable rest

• Interaction with their family

• A good appetite and interest in their surroundings

 

 

However, osteoarthritis can progress despite treatment. In advanced stages, pain and mobility issues may begin to significantly affect a pet’s quality of life.

 

 

 

 

When Comfort Becomes the Priority

 

 

For some pets, there may come a time when pain can no longer be adequately controlled, or daily activities become distressing despite best efforts. This can be an emotionally difficult period for families.

 

Discussing your pet’s comfort, mobility, and overall wellbeing with your regular veterinarian can help you understand when supportive care — and eventually end-of-life decisions — may be kindest.

 

 

 

 

We’re Here to Support You

 

 

If you are reading this as part of a wider conversation about your pet’s comfort or quality of life, please know that you are not alone. We work closely alongside your regular veterinarian to ensure any decisions are made with care, compassion, and your pet’s dignity at heart.

 

If you would like to talk through your concerns or ask questions about home euthanasia, we are here to listen.