Arthritis is an inflammation of one or more of the joints of the body.

A joint is the connection of two bones (a "hinge") that allows the pet to move.  These joints exist in the neck, the back and all of the legs.  Cartilage is the smooth surface of the joint that is covered by a thick, lubricating fluid. Arthritis involves damage to this cartilage and alteration of the fluid.

A pet with inflammation or infection of any joint may have:

1. Pain / Lameness
2. Swelling (enlargement) of any joint
3. Stiffness while walking or moving
4. Reluctance to get up from a lying position / difficulty getting comfortable
5. Hesitancy to exercise or take walks

The cause of the arthritis may be difficult to determine. Old injuries and aging changes produce the majority of arthritic problems in pets. Infection and immune system irregularities (pets "allergic" to their own joints) are rare but do occur.

Arthritis is not curable. Rather the goal is to control the problem (as with people). This can be accomplished in various ways:

 1. Cortisone - the strongest anti-inflammatory medication available.  It's use is safe when monitored by the doctor.

 2. NSAID's (non-cortisone, anti-inflammatory medication) - the most common treatment for pets and people. Not all NSAID's (commonly used for people) are safe for pets. The drugs that are safe to use for pets include:

   a. aspirin
   b. phenylbutazone (Butazolidin)
   c. meclofenamic acid (Arquel)
   d. carprofen (Rimadyl)
   e. etodolac (Etogesic, Lodine)

 3. Acupuncture - for control of chronic pain in pets not responsive to medication or for those who desire alternative (drug free) alternatives.

 4. Nutritional supplements ("neutraceuticals")

   a. glucosamine (Arthramine, Cosequin, Glycoflex, Cartiflex) - helps to rebuild the damaged cartilage.
   b. "natural" products (untested) but may be helpful (see below).

OTHER NATURAL PRODUCTS
TO HELP MAINTAIN HEALTHY JOINTS

1. Curcumin (curcumalonga)

This extract comes from the spice turmeric. It reduces the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body and improves the breakdown of scar tissue.

2. Bromelain

This is an enzyme found in pineapples. When taken between meals bromelain reduces many types of inflammation. It blocks the production of many of the hormone-like substances that are involved with inflammation. This enzyme also helps to break down scar tissue and promote healing.

3. Magnesium malate

This mineral works together with calcium to control muscle contraction and relaxation. This helps to relieve cramping, stiffness and soreness.

4. Quercetin

This is a safe, natural bioflavonoid found in many plants. Histamine (also involved with allergies) is released by certain blood cells and contributes to swelling and inflammation. Quercetin is thought to protect these blood cells from breaking down and reduces the inflammatory response.

5. Ginger

Ginger root is an old, traditional Indian medicine to help sore, aching joints. It inhibits histamine release and reduces the inflammatory response.

6. Vitamin C

Like Bromelain, Vitamin C helps to break down fibrin and scar tissue. It is also necessary for collagen synthesis, an important factor following joint injury or degeneration.

7. SOD

Superoxide dismutase is a powerful anti-oxidant enzyme that helps protect the body against inflammatory responses. The oral form is not as effective as originally hoped, in that the stomach acid deactivates SOD. It does not appear to cause any side effects however.

Unfortunately, the dosage requirements for these natural products is not known for our pet animals. We often dose our pets as though they were "small people" and watch primarily for intestinal upset.