Rush Animal Care Clinic Offers new Care For Arthritis in Pets
Just like people, pets can develop arthritis in their joints as the years pass that causes pain with movement and can affect their enjoyment of life. Fortunately, veterinary medicine has developed a number of treatments for arthritis to manage osteoarthritis that often occurs with aging. At Rush Animal Care Clinic in Johnston, IA, we can help your pet with arthritis be more comfortable and more active. We have in injectable option for both dogs and cats that will help with arthritis. These are new drugs in the class of monoclonal antibody therapy. The injection is given under the skin every 28-30 days. There is no negative effect on the liver or kidneys, like we have with the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications(NSAID's). Cats are not able to take the NSAID's long-term, so the injections are a fantastic option for controlling discomfort. Most animals will see relief on the first injection, but we will tell you that it will take at least 2 injections for us to assess efficacy. We will not do vaccines at the time of the MAB injection--that will have to be done at the in-between point--2 weeks after MAB injection.
Understanding Arthritis in Pets
Arthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is a progressive condition that affects the joints of the body. The structures that make up the joints experience wear and tear during normal movement, which can become significant over time. Large or heavy dog breeds may be particularly vulnerable to joint problems as they age, but these problems can also develop from old injuries
Symptoms of Arthritis
You may notice your pet “slowing down” in their daily movement. You may notice occasional or consistent limping. The animal may take longer to recover after playtime or outdoor activity. The animal may lick at an area of the body constantly, to soothe discomfort. Cats may eliminate outside of the box because it’s too difficult or painful for them to climb into it. The animal may seem depressed or not as engaged in everyday life as usual.
How Is Arthritis in Pets Diagnosed?
Your veterinarian in Johnston will carefully examine your pet, also investigating the way the animal walks and whether it appears to experience discomfort when touched or manipulated. An x-ray will help to detect abnormalities in the bones. Ultrasound testing can show problems in the soft tissues surrounding the joints.
Treatment of Pet Arthritis
Your Johnston vet may recommend weight loss and gentle exercise to help reduce symptoms of arthritis. A number of medications have been developed by veterinary drug manufacturers to treat arthritis pain and stiffness. Monoclonal antibody injections may be administered for discomfort. Nutritional supplements may be recommended to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
Make Rush Animal Care Clinic Your Veterinarian in Johnston, IA
Dr. Rush and the team at Rush Animal Care Clinic use their many years of experience with animals to provide the highest quality veterinary care for their patients in Johnson, IA and surrounding communities. We offer many services, including wellness exams, vaccinations, preventative care, dental care, cold laser therapy, boarding. Call Rush Animal Care Clinic today at (515) 270-2240 for an appointment to learn about current treatments for arthritis that can help your pet’s mobility.
