Types of Athritis in Pet Dogs or Pet Cats

(A Personal Family Pet Overview)

There are several types of Arthritis and may effect different portions of the pet's body. Before the reader continues, I must tell you that this present page does not constitute the writings of a professional veterinarian or vet but are merely the opinions of the author. The ideas presented here were researched, however. In short you will find the information on this web page will fall in line with what is presently known about Arthritis in dogs and cats.

Webster defines Arthritis as a noun. From the Greek word, arthritis, taken from the Greek arthon, meaning, a "joint." It also tells us that arthritis is an inflammation of a joint or joints. Which doesn't tell us very much, now does it, because there are many other factors involved. When we do a better search we find the following:

Osteoarthritis is a progressive form of chronic arthritis. It is caused by cartilage breakdown for both dog and cat alike and can be most distructive. The bony structures of joints themselves begin to deteriorate and then rub against one another causing intense discomfort and pain. Yet surprisingly there may not be any inflamation. Primarily because we are dealing with bone mass and not necessarily with tissue, muscle or ligaments.

Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is similar to Osteoarthristis but usually involves portions of the joint. Usually, cartilage. Inflammation, swelling and redness may not be present. DJD is more prevalent in larger dogs or pets that are overweight. Increased muscle and tissue mass can place additional pressure on bone joints. And although inflammation may not be present pain and discomfort are.

Hip Dysplasia is similar to Osteoarthritis but usually involves portions of the joint. Usually, cartilage. Due to its name, is specific to the hip area. Again, inflammation may not be present. This does not mean that your pet animal is not in any pain.

Elbow Dysplasia is a hereditary condition. It is usually found in large breed dogs but can be found in any dog or cat. As the animal ages bone chips are formed. They are very painful to your pet. So painful in fact that your pet dog or pet cat may become lame. Over time, simple walking is difficult if not impossible.

Knee Dysplasia is specific to the knee area. Painful bone chips are formed which cause the pet dog or pet cat to limp or become lame as this condition worsens. Unlike humans who can sit or rest a portion of their bodies, dogs and cats require the use of all four limbs to get around. So whether elbow, shoulder or knee, to the pet who is in pain and suffering getting around becomes a most difficult task.

Knee Dislocation, otherwise called, "knee stifle" involves torn ligaments. This causes instability in the joint causing the pet dog or pet cat to stumble or fall. They may even yelp out in pain. Our dog Barum has this condition and is often immobile for hours or days at a time. We have found that avoiding high places is extremely important in helping him heal. At such times, jumping up on beds or couches are out of his reach.

Osteochondrosis is a condition caused by poor breeding or improper diet; or both. It is identified by deteriorization of supportative cartilage and tissue. Inflamation and pain will be present. Once born into this world we cannot undo what nature has provided; yet we can alter our pets dietary intake.

Degenerative Shoulder is similar to Osteochondrosis but is specific to the shoulder area. Deteriorating cartilage and surrounding tissue are effected, or both. As with Osteochondrosis inflamation and pain are present. Trauma to the area can worsen this condition. For example: jumping down from a higher place or even foward leaping will cause increased pressure on the front portion of the body.

Hypertrophic Arthritis is caused by excessive bone growth. This may produce nodules or spurs which are very painful to your pet dog or pet cat. The spine as well as front and hind legs can be effected.

Wrist Arthritis (Carpi) is similar to the "carpal tunnel syndrome" seen in humans. And although your pet dog or pet cat cannot sit at a desk or type they can and do repeated or repetious tasks. In short, the more active the animal, the more apt they are to develop what we humans have identified as Wrist Arthritis.

Dislocated Knee Cap is a condition where the knee cap becomes dislocated and may pop out of its socket. It is usually an inherited condition or may be caused by poor breeding. Whatever the case, poorly formed leg bones are usually present.

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The information posted to this web site should not in any way be used as a substitute for the advice of a physician or licensed practitioner; or in the case of petcare products, a licenced veterinarian.

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