How to Spot the Early Signs of Arthritis in Dogs and Cats
As our pets get older, it’s natural for their energy levels to change, but sometimes these changes are signs of something more. Arthritis, or osteoarthritis, is a common condition in ageing pets that often goes unnoticed in its early stages.
Pets can start showing signs of arthritis as early as one year old, though it is more commonly diagnosed around eight years of age or later. While older pets are more prone due to natural wear and tear, young dogs and cats can develop arthritis due to joint injuries, genetic predispositions, or early-onset health conditions
Recognising the early signs can make all the difference, giving you the chance to take steps that keep your dog or cat comfortable and active for as long as possible.
What Is Arthritis in Pets?
Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cushioning cartilage between joints gradually wears down. This leads to inflammation, stiffness and pain. While it is more common in older animals, younger pets with joint trauma or genetic vulnerabilities can develop it early .
Early Signs in Dogs and Cats
Pets are adept at hiding pain, so identifying early signs is key:
● Stiffness after resting, especially in the mornings or after sleep
● Reluctance to jump, climb stairs or go for walks, even short ones
● Changes in behaviour, such as irritability when touched, increased licking of joints, or avoiding handling
● Limping or favouring a leg, which may come and go
● Sleeping more, particularly when movement seems to cause discomfort
● Reduced grooming in cats, as bending and stretching may be painful
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth booking a vet check-up for early diagnosis and management.
What You Can Do to Help
While arthritis cannot be cured, several strategies can reduce its impact and maintain quality of life:
● Healthy weight management: Keeping your pet at an ideal weight eases pressure on joints
● Regular, gentle exercise: Short, frequent walks or gentle play help maintain mobility without causing strain
● Home adjustments: Provide soft bedding, add non-slip mats, use pet ramps, and consider raised feeding bowls
● Joint supplements: Ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin and omega‑3 fatty acids may support joint health—always ask your vet before starting
● Medication: Your vet may recommend NSAIDs or pain relief medications as needed
Advanced Therapies: What About Stem Cell Treatment?
In addition to traditional management, some owners are now exploring advanced treatments like stem cell therapy to help dogs with arthritis. This cutting-edge option uses the dog’s own stem cells to help reduce joint inflammation and support tissue repair.
While not suitable for every pet, it may offer long-term benefits for certain dogs, especially when diagnosed early. If you're interested in learning more, we’ve explored this in detail in another one of our articles: Can Stem Cell Therapy Help Your Dog’s Arthritis?
Why Early Detection Matters
By managing arthritis early, you can slow disease progression and maintain your pet’s comfort and vitality. This means they can continue enjoying their favourite activities for as long as possible.
