Many older pets could be living with undiagnosed arthritis, says Havant vet practice
Many pet owners assume that slowing down is simply a natural part of ageing, but vets at Harbour Vets in Havant are encouraging owners to look more closely, as subtle changes in behaviour, movement and daily habits could actually be signs of painful cat and dog arthritis.
The practice is highlighting the often-overlooked condition as part of a wider effort to help owners recognise the early signs of osteoarthritis in cats and dogs, one of the most common causes of chronic pain in older pets.
While arthritis is often associated with dogs, experts say it is also extremely common in cats. The UK's leading cat welfare charity, Cats Protection, says that around 90% of cats aged over 12 have evidence of arthritis on X-rays, yet many cases go undetected because cats instinctively hide signs of pain and discomfort[i].
To help raise awareness, Harbour Vets is sharing advice to help owners spot the warning signs and know when to seek support.
Kevin Cooper, Clinical Director at Harbour Vets, said: "One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that slowing down is simply part of getting older.
"A dog that no longer wants to walk as far, hesitates before using the stairs, or takes longer to get comfortable may be experiencing chronic joint pain. Likewise, cats can show very subtle changes that owners often put down to age.
"The good news is that arthritis in cats and dogs can often be managed very successfully. The sooner we identify it, the sooner we can help improve a pet's comfort, joint health, mobility and quality of life."
Arthritis is a progressive condition that causes inflammation, stiffness and joint pain in cats and dogs. Although it cannot be cured, a combination of veterinary care, pain management, weight control and lifestyle adjustments can help affected pets remain active and comfortable for longer.
For dogs, owners should watch out for:
Reluctance to walk or exercise
Difficulty using stairs
Stiffness after resting
Sleeping more than usual
Difficulty getting comfortable
Weakness in the hind legs
Changes in temperament or behaviour
In cats, arthritis often presents differently and may be less obvious. Signs can include:
Hesitating before jumping onto furniture
Taking easier routes around the home
Reduced grooming
Spending less time playing
Avoiding interaction with family members
Toileting outside the litter tray
Sleeping more than usual
Feline welfare organisation International Cat Care say arthritis in cats is frequently missed because the signs develop gradually and are often mistaken for normal ageing[ii].
Kevin Cooper added: "Cats are particularly good at hiding pain, so owners may not see obvious signs such as limping.
"Sometimes the only indication is that a cat has stopped jumping onto a favourite windowsill, is grooming less, or seems quieter than usual. Owners know their pets best, so if something feels different, it's always worth seeking advice."
The team at Harbour Vets is encouraging owners of pets aged six years and over to schedule regular health checks and seek veterinary advice if they notice changes in mobility, behaviour or daily routines.
Owners can read CVS Vets’ full arthritis guidance for cats https://www.cvsvets.com/health/conditions/arthritis-in-older-cats and dogs https://www.cvsvets.com/health/conditions/arthritis-in-older-dogs.
For more information or to book an appointment with Harbour Veterinary Centre - Havant at Bartons Road in Havant, email https://www.cvsvets.com/south-east/harbour-veterinary-centre-havant.