Arthritis Awareness

With the colder winter weather some of us will be noticing our joints are feeling more achy and the same will be true of our dogs and cats. Cool weather can leave joints especially stiff and tender, meaning an increase in discomfort for pets suffering from arthritis or even highlight that you pet is suffering from the condition.

What is it?

Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is the inflammation of the joints caused by wear and tear of the cartilage and the other associated tissues. Cartilage covers and protects the ends of the bones in a movable (synovial) joint. The cartilage has no nerves so when it touches the cartilage of another bone, there is no pain.

When the cartilage wears away, the bone is exposed. The bone does have nerves so when the two bone ends in a joint touch each other it results in pain and inflammation – signals that arthritis is present. In degenerative joint disease we also see small bony projections (osteophytes) form on the bone that is close to the joint. This adds to the pain. This type of arthritis is progressive, meaning it continues to get worse. 

What causes it?

Osteoarthritis is either age related as a result of wear and tear on the joint, or secondary to another problem within the joint, such as hip dysplasia, a ruptured cruciate ligament or trauma.

Signs of arthritis

Arthritis by its nature develops gradually so animals tend to learn to cope with the discomfort without showing any obvious pain. As a result some dogs and cats can appear to be very stoical about the pain from arthritis- often it is only once the pain has been treated that owners realise how much their pet was suffering.

Signs of arthritis in dogs include;
                   

🐶Sitting down on walks.                                 
🐶Slowing down on walks
🐶Stiffness, especially getting up after rest 
🐶Reduced activity
🐶Hesitancy to climb steps
🐶Difficulty jumping into the car

🐶Change in character (restless, anxious withdrawn, clingy, grumpiness)
🐶Limping
🐶Quiet - spending less time playing with family; which can be mistaken for a sign of 'aging'

🐶Excessively licking over a joint

🐶 Swollen joints

🐶Painful joints                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                                

Signs of arthritis in cats include;

     

🙀Reluctance to play and exercise
🙀 Lose ability to jump up to, or down from heights.
🙀Sleeping more                              
🙀No longer grooming themselves
🙀 Irritable/grumpy when stroke

🙀 Grumpiness

🙀 Crying when picked up
🙀Difficulty stepping into litter tray
🙀Difficulty stepping through the cat flap

We recommend a visit to see one of our vets if any of these signs (or other changes) are noticed in your pet.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Your vet may suspect that your pet has arthritis from the signs you describe and by performing a thorough health check. The vet will manipulate the joints gently to check for swellings, heat, evidence of pain, range of movement and crepitus (a grating feeling when the joint is manipulated). Sometimes it is necessary to take an x-ray to find out what is going on in the joints. This usually requires a sedation or general anaesthesia and a separate day appointment is arranged for this.

How is osteoarthritis treated?

The goal of treatment is to decrease pain, minimise lameness, improve mobility and provide a good quality of life for affected patients. Arthritis cannot be cured.

Weight control: Dogs and cats that suffer from chronic pain caused by conditions like osteoarthritis often become inactive, which can result in obesity. Controlling your pet’s weight will lighten the load on arthritic joints and make it easier for them to move around. We appreciate that reducing the weight of an animal that finds exercise painful is not easy. Please speak to a member of staff about our weight clinics which are run free of charge. We will be happy to give ideas regarding diet, weight targets and design exercise strategies to suit your pet, as well as providing help and support whenever required.

Exercise is essential because it contributes to strengthening the muscles that support joints. Moderate amounts of low-impact exercise each day will improve joint mobility and can help get a lethargic, arthritic pet active again. Dogs will benefit from such activities as walking and swimming (hydrotherapy) ; cats can profit from play that keeps them moving without excessive jumping. Consult your veterinary surgeon about what amount and type of exercise would be best for your pet. Also, be aware that your dog or cat’s arthritis pain may be more severe at certain times than others. If this is the case, let your pet take a break from his or her exercise routine for a few days, until the painful flare-up subsides.

Medications known as non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, (NSAID), are often prescribed to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Their efficacy is well documented. Any reduction in pain at the lowest possible dose will allow for an improved quality of life and limit any possible unwanted side effects. Before use, your pet will be assessed for their general health and regularly monitored whilst on any medication. Please ask your veterinary surgeon for more information. Please note: It is NOT safe to give your pet human anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicines.

Diet and Nutraceuticals.

There are particular diets such as the Royal Canin Mobility that can really improve the signs of arthritis. It contains both nutrients that help with the inflammation, including anti-oxidants, and helps with weight management. Do speak to your vet.

Joint supplements (nutraceuticals) are also found to be very good in some cases. These nutritional supplements are especially useful in the early stages of the disease or when recovering from a joint trauma (including surgery). They can be used solely as a preventative measure too. These supplements often include ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin that are useful in supporting the health of the cartilage and surrounding structures.

The regulation of such supplements is limited and as such the quality may vary greatly from one manufacturer to another. One should always use those recommended by your vet.

Making a few adjustments to your pet’s environment can help to keep them more comfortable and mobile. A few suggestions are;

• Make sure that you provide a well padded cosy bed, out of draughts. Ensure that it can be readily accessed.
• Allow your cat to reach their favourite places easily by placing a box or item of furniture as a launch pad.
• Make sure that your cat can reach their litter tray easily and check that the sides aren't too tall; that they are able to step into it comfortably.
• Reduce the need for your pet to have to climb the stairs.
• Allow easy access to food and water without the need for your cat to jump up.
• If your dog appears unsteady when out walking or has difficulty on uneven surfaces, a harness may offer them additional support by distributing any pressure from the lead over a larger area. This means that you may be able to assist them in keeping their balance making it easier for them to walk on uneven surfaces or going up or down stairs.
• If you have laminate, wood or vinyl flooring that your dog is slipping or sliding on, you could consider the use of rubber backed mats, particularly where your dog would lie down, turn or stand to eat, to help them grip the floor.
• If your dog is having difficulty reaching their bowls on the floor, you could consider raising the bowls a little off the floor or there are a variety of raised bowls on the market, to find a more comfortable height for them to eat and drink at.
• Consider a ramp to aid your dog getting into and out of the car.

Your pet's well-being

Spend some time cleaning and grooming your pet. Check their claws to see that they aren't becoming overgrown. Encourage play and interaction to provide exercise and mental stimulation. 

Have regular check up's; it's important to maintain communication with your vet to ensure that your pet is enjoying their senior years.

Consider alternative therapies

Hydrotherapy (which involves your dog swimming in a purpose-built pool) helps to build muscle mass to better support joints. Swimming is low impact and so tends to be more comfortable for dogs with stiff joints. Other therapies, such as acupuncture, could be considered.

Your vet will be able to discuss which therapies will be most appropriate for your pet and where you will be able to find them locally.

                                                         

In conclusion; 

Once arthritis has started, it cannot be cured, but if we notice the signs early and manage it carefully, we can slow down the progression of the disease, greatly reduce the symptoms and so improve your pet's quality of life.

   Disclaimer:

   The contents of the Arden House Animal Hospital website are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Veterinary Surgeon with any questions you may have regarding your animal’s medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. 

Pet safety at Christmas.

Our poem is a reminder to have a pet-safe Christmas!

Twas the night before Christmas.....and at Arden House, Albert was dreaming of a new catnip mouse; when in walked the vet with some patients to see, first a kitten had fallen out of a Christmas tree. Mimi had tried to climb to the top, the tree toppled over and down she dropped! Felix had swallowed red tinsel strands, he was now being sick; an operation was planned.

With everything well and the animals fed, and Albert still asleep in his nice comfy bed; loudly the phone started to ring...’It’s my dog’ said the owner, ‘she’s raided the bin!’ Penny the Labrador’s groans could be heard; She’d eaten the bones from the cooked Christmas bird. ‘I’ll need to see her’ the vet explained as Penny was in a lot of pain.

At the hospital Penny was admitted to stay, to receive care throughout Christmas Day. The sound of the phone rang out again. ‘I’m worried about my dog!’ an owner exclaimed.
 ‘What’s happened?’ asked the vet concerned; she’d eaten a bar of dark chocolate he learned.

‘Please bring her straight in for emergency care’ the vet advised as fully aware, that a compound in chocolate in pets is toxic and likely to be what’s making her sick.

Lola the pug was next to arrive

 having eaten a pack of luxury mince pies. 

Raisins and grapes are unsafe for pets,

so if eaten, it's important to contact your vet.

With the patients all treated and settled, 
the vet went to put on the kettle.
 When up on the roof, the sound of hooves -

the arrival of somebody special!

'I have a gift for Albert the cat'

 greeted Santa wiping his boots on the mat. 

' And one of my reindeer has injured his foot,
 would you be so kind to take a look?'

The vet heard of Dasher's plight,
 he'd slipped on ice when he landed from flight.
An x-ray showed no broken bones, the reindeer was fit to fly to more homes.
 With tablets prescribed to help Dasher's pain,
 it was time for Santa to take the reins.
'Merry Christmas to you, Ho Ho Ho' beamed Santa as he prepared to go.
With Rudolph's nose providing the light,
 off whizzed his sleigh into the night!

...............................................

Other hazards;

🎄Bottle corks, corn on the cob, cocktail sticks, cracker toys, ribbon and tinsel can be dangerous if swallowed. Ensure that they are tidied away or kept out of reach of pets. 

    🎄Ingestion of batteries is more common at this time of year. If the battery is chewed and pierced it can cause chemical burns and heavy metal poisoning. If they are swallowed whole it is possible they will cause an obstruction. All batteries are potentially toxic so if you suspect your dog or cat has chewed or swallowed a battery - please call us.

IN AN EMERGENCY

If you think that your pet may have eaten something that they shouldn't have then swift action is necessary.

Follow these four simple steps:

Step 1 - Prevent your pet from eating any more.

Step 2 - Phone your vet immediately!

Step 3 - Stay calm and follow your vet's instructions.

Step 4 - Collect the relevant wrapping and packaging.

     Make a note of our phone number and call us immediately -

01895 633600

Further advice 

   

   Christmas time often means a busy home, with friends and family coming together in seasonal spirit. Remember that new faces and more noise can be scary for your pet, so it’s a good idea to provide them with a safe room so they can escape and be put at ease if it all becomes too much. Be mindful of the front door opening with guests arriving and leaving. Make sure that dogs can't run out!  It’s also important to maintain your pet’s normal routines, especially with feeding and exercise, to avoid them becoming too unsettled.

      

      DISCLAIMER: 

      

    The contents of the Arden House Animal Hospital website are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Veterinary Surgeon with any questions you may have regarding your animal’s medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. 

  

               

    

                                                                                 

Pet of the Month - Hall of Fame : Shadow ( July 2018 )

Our pet of the month from July is super Shadow, who suffers from Feline Lower Urinary Tract disease (FLUTD). He has required treatment over the last few months after a flare up of his condition meant that he was unable to pass urine properly, a situation that needed urgent veterinary attention as it can be life threatening.

A brief overview;

FLUTD is not a specific disease but rather is the term used to describe conditions that can affect the urinary bladder and/or urethra (the lower urinary tract) of cats.

Clinical signs for these disorders are all very similar so it is often difficult or impossible to determine the underlying cause without doing further investigations.

The underlying causes of FLUTD include; bladder stones, bacterial infections, urethral plugs – an accumulation of proteins, cells, crystals and debris that bind together, anatomical defects e.g stricture, and bladder tumours. However, a number of cats develop the condition without any obvious underlying cause – so called Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC).

Both male and female cats can suffer from FLUTD but it is the male cat that is more susceptible to a urethral obstruction due to their urethra being longer and narrower. (The urethra is a tubular structure that runs from the bladder to the outside of the body). A blocked urethra (commonly referred to as a 'blocked bladder') is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary treatment. 

Cats with FLUTD may display one or more of a range of signs;

• Restlessness
• Irritability or aggression
• Lethargy
• Straining to try and pass urine but unable to
• Frequent  and/ or prolonged visits to the litter tray with only a small amount of urine passed  (spotting)
• Blood in the urine
• Excessive licking of the genital area
• Urination in inappropriate places (outside of the litter box)
• Crying out while attempting to urinate (pain)

If your pet is unable to pass urine (of which males have a higher risk), it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention.

Shadow

It was November last year when Shadow's owner first brought Shadow in to see us after she'd noticed he was not acting himself and he’d not eaten. An examination by vet Kirstie revealed that his bladder was very large and painful and she suspected that he was unable to pass urine. As Shadow prefers to toilet outside, his owner had not been able to assess this.  He was admitted for emergency treatment which involved placing a urinary catheter to allow the urine to drain out of his bladder, relieving the pressure. A blood test was taken to ensure that Shadow's kidneys had not been damaged and to check that potassium (an electrolyte) had not built up to dangerous levels. Shadow was prescribed some medication to support his bladder and after a night in hospital was feeling much better. Shadow went home and at his next check up was doing well so it was decided to continue with supportive treatment. His owner's were advised to encourage Shadow to drink more water which helps to flush the urinary tract by producing more urine. They bought a water fountain and started to mix some wet food (pouches) into his dry food. Importantly they were aware of signs to look for should there be a recurrence.

In February this year, Shadow's owner's noticed that he appeared uncomfortable and promptly brought him in to us. Vet Celia examined him and found his bladder to be painful. He was also unable to pass a free flow of urine so he was admitted to the hospital for a urinary catheter to be placed and for treatment for the pain and inflammation. Shadow required some tests to investigate the cause of his symptoms. Over the next few weeks, Shadow had an ultrasound scan and some x-rays taken. These procedures allowed the vets to look for the presence of bladder stones (uroliths), assess the structure of the bladder and urethra, and assess kidney health. They also checked for signs that could indicate a tumour to be present. Urine samples were sent to the lab and analysed for signs of infection and the appearance of significant quantities of crystals.  With each of these factors ruled out, Shadow’s symptoms were attributed to Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) that lead to severe urethral spasms which was why he was unable to urinate.

This was very painful for him and it was important to keep him as comfortable as possible and carefully monitor his urination. Blood tests were run to monitor his kidney function and he required supportive intravenous fluid therapy. 

Subsequently, Shadow has had to stay with us several times over the course of the last few weeks for further catheterisations, monitoring and treatment. Shadow pictured in hospital during a visit from his owner. It was important that Shadow received plenty of attention as he was feeling quite depressed, so the nurses chatted away to him to help keep his spirits up and he enjoyed some chin rubs!  Shadow's owner visited with some freshly boiled fish to tempt him to eat and of course was on hand with plenty of fuss.

Throughout his time with us, Shadow has been an exemplary patient and we pleased to say that he is now doing well at home. His owners monitor him very closely to ensure that any clinical signs of recurrence are picked up on as soon as possible. Shadow takes his medication daily and his owners are continuing to encourage him to eat wet food and drink plenty of water. They are also watching his weight as being overweight is a possible risk factor of FIC, as is stress, so keeping him in a familiar home routine will be beneficial.

For his bravery and courage and his owner's perseverance and love, Shadow is our much deserved pet of the month.

                   

Teeth talk

Periodontal disease is one of the most common problems seen in veterinary practice. It occurs in two forms: The first is gingivitis, a reversible inflammation of the gums. The second is periodontitis, an inflammation of the deeper structures supporting the teeth.

The problems begin when plaque that is made up of food particles, saliva and bacteria, starts to build up on your pet's teeth.To start with, the plaque is a soft off-white material, but if plaque remains, it quickly mineralises and hard brown tartar forms on the teeth (also called dental calculus). It commonly leads to gum inflammation (gingivitis). Bacteria begins to build up between the gums and the teeth.

Periodontitis develops as a continuation of gingivitis. If this inflammation is not controlled, the bacteria continue to accumulate between the teeth and gums, causing irritation, infection and bleeding. This inflammatory and infectious process can destroy the periodontal ligament as well as the substance that holds teeth in their sockets, which is called cementum. The roots may become so severely affected that some teeth become loose and fall out.

Bacteria surrounding the roots gain access to the blood stream and can affect your pet's organs -  the liver, kidneys, heart and lungs.

Treatment is directed towards preventing gingivitis from progressing to periodontitis and delaying the progress of periodontitis if it is established.

Signs of dental disease may include; 

• Bad breath ( Halitosis)
• Dribbling
• May become head shy and resent mouth being touched
• May avoid harder foods
• May avoid eating on one side of the mouth
• Poor grooming 
• Rubbing or pawing at the mouth
• Redness of the gums / bleeding gums
• Discolouration of the teeth
• Swelling on the face

It is important to remember that pets with dental pain may not show obvious signs and they frequently maintain a normal appetite.

Throughout October and November we are offering a FREE DENTAL HEALTH CHECK for your pet with a vet! Even if your pet is not showing any signs of dental disease it is worth coming along so that the vet can assess your pet's oral health. (If further treatment is recommended the vet will provide an estimate) 

Toby has his teeth cleaned 

Lovely seven year old Toby belongs to our head nurse Jazmin. He recently had a dental scale and polish after it was noticed that he had an accumulation of tartar on his teeth. Once tartar has formed on the teeth it needs to be removed professionally by the vet, as at this stage, home brushing will not remove it.

For this procedure animals require a general anaesthetic, so prior to the dental, Toby had a health check which involved a physical examination and then a blood test to assess the function of his liver and kidneys. With a clean bill of health, Toby was booked in for a dental. Cats and dogs need to be starved before having a general anaesthetic, so Toby was not allowed any breakfast on the morning of the procedure.

Toby was given an injection of pre-medication which helped him to relax (pictured). Jazmin then settled him into a kennel to allow some time for the pre-med to take effect. Jazmin set up the dental equipment and the equipment needed to anaesthetise Toby. After about 30 minutes Toby was feeling sleepy and was ready to be anaesthetised. 

Vet Lavanya, assisted by Jazmin, gave Toby an intravenous injection of anaesthetic; this is called induction. Toby was then intubated which involves inserting a tube through the mouth and into the trachea (windpipe).The tube is then attached to an anaesthetic circuit which provides anaesthetic gas and oxygen. This enables us to control and maintain the level of anaesthesia for the patient.

Lavanya used an ultrasonic dental scaler to remove the tartar and plaque from the visible surfaces of Toby's teeth. It is important to clean the unseen bits too - below the gum margin where plaque can accumulate. She also assessed the health of the teeth; Toby did not need any extractions. After scaling each tooth, they were polished using a dental polisher and special toothpaste to leave a smooth tooth surface. This also helps to prevent the rapid re-attachment of plaque.

Following the procedure Toby recovered well from the anaesthetic. Jazmin was able to take him home the same afternoon. It was important to keep Toby quiet and rested at home for the next 24-48 hrs whilst he recovered fully from the anaesthetic.

Toby back home with his friend Ruby 💜

Now that Toby’s teeth have been cleaned, it is important that he receives home dental care in order to maintain the health of his teeth and gums and prolong the need to repeat a scale and polish in the future.

Regular tooth brushing is the best way to keep the teeth clean and healthy. Special toothbrushes and pet toothpastes are available for dogs and cats. Human toothpaste should never be used. Your vet or nurse can give you plenty of advice on introducing your pet to brushing and will demonstrate how to brush their teeth too.
Ideally puppies and kittens should be introduced to dental hygiene at an early age, however it's never too late to start! With patience and time even older pets can learn to have their teeth brushed.

Our nurses run FREE dental health clinics where you can fully discuss your pet's needs and get recommendations on the best way to care for your pet's teeth. 

There are specially designed foods, oral hygiene gels, toys and chews available to help keep pets’ teeth clean and are suitable methods if brushing has proved unsuccessful.

Regular dental examinations are important. Ideally, twice a year - at your pet's yearly booster vaccination health check and again six months later.

Disclaimer: The contents of the Arden House animal hospital website are for informational purposes only.The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Always seek the advice of your veterinary surgeon with any questions you may have regarding your animal’s medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.