July 22, 2026
Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic pain in older dogs and cats, although it can affect younger pets too. The most common form is osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), which occurs when the cartilage cushioning the joints gradually wears away. This leads to inflammation, pain and reduced mobility over time.
While arthritis cannot be cured, early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can help keep your pet comfortable, active and enjoying a good quality of life for years to come.
Age-related wear and tear is the most common cause of osteoarthritis, but it’s certainly not the only one. Younger dogs and cats can also develop arthritis following injury, joint abnormalities or developmental conditions.
Some of the most common risk factors include:
Keeping your pet at a healthy weight is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce unnecessary stress on their joints.
Many people assume their pet is “just slowing down with age”, when they may actually be living with chronic pain.
Common signs of arthritis include:
Cats are particularly good at hiding pain, so the signs can be much more subtle. They may simply stop jumping onto favourite surfaces, become less active or groom themselves less effectively.
Although arthritis is more common in senior pets, younger dogs and cats can also be affected.
Dogs born with conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia often adapt their movement from an early age, making their discomfort easy to miss. Likewise, cats are masters at disguising pain, so arthritis frequently goes undiagnosed until the disease has progressed.
The earlier arthritis is recognised, the sooner treatment can begin to help slow its progression and improve your pet’s comfort.
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s history, observe how they move and perform a physical examination to identify reduced joint movement, swelling or pain.
X-rays may also be recommended to assess joint changes and confirm a diagnosis of osteoarthritis while ruling out other possible causes of lameness or discomfort.
Although arthritis is a lifelong condition, there are many ways to help pets stay comfortable and mobile.
A management plan may include:
For energetic dogs that love chasing balls or running long distances, it may also be necessary to modify high-impact activities to reduce unnecessary strain on painful joints.
Alongside veterinary treatment, some pets may benefit from nutritional supplements that support joint health.
Ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, green-lipped mussel and other joint-support nutrients may help support healthy joints as part of a comprehensive arthritis management plan.
Natural Animal Solutions offers a range of joint health supplements formulated to support mobility and comfort in dogs and cats. As every pet is different, speak with your veterinarian about whether a natural joint support supplement may be appropriate for your pet alongside their overall treatment plan.
Arthritis doesn’t have to mean the end of an active, happy life.
The earlier arthritis is recognised and managed, the better the opportunity to slow its progression, control pain and help your dog or cat remain comfortable for longer.
If you notice stiffness, slowing down, reluctance to jump, limping or any other changes in your pet’s movement, don’t simply put it down to ageing. Book an appointment with your veterinarian to identify the cause and discuss the treatment and management options that will best support your pet throughout every stage of life.
Dr Melissa Meehan is a highly experienced and respected veterinary surgeon with over 16 years experience. Dr Melissa obtained her Members in Small Animal Medicine through examination in 2008 and now runs her own veterinary ophthalmology service.
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