Joint Health

Osteoarthritis in Pets: Understanding Pain and Exploring New Treatment Alternatives

July 23, 2025•Dr. Paula Cimiano

Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, is a progressive and painful condition that affects a large number of dogs and cats—especially as they age. Though it's often mistaken for a natural part of getting older, osteoarthritis is a medical condition that can—and should—be treated to improve your pet's quality of life.

About the Author

Veterinary Professional

With 8 years of experience in veterinary medicine, specializing in pain management and senior pet care.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis involves the slow deterioration of joint cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can affect one or more joints and is most common in:

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Senior dogs and cats

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Pets with joint injuries or dysplasia

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Overweight animals

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Large dog breeds

⚠️ Early signs are often subtle, so owners may not realize their pet is in pain until the disease has significantly progressed.

Recognizing the Signs

Look for these early indicators of osteoarthritis:

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Hesitation or difficulty when jumping or climbing

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Limping or stiffness, especially after rest

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Less interest in walking or playing

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Behavioral changes such as irritability or withdrawal

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Excessive licking or chewing around joints

🩺 Veterinary assessment and early diagnosis are key to effective treatment.

Managing Pain: Traditional Approaches

For many years, pain management for osteoarthritis has included a multimodal approach:

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

Help control inflammation and provide pain relief but require regular bloodwork and are not suitable for all pets.

Joint supplements

Such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health.

Weight management

Essential to reduce joint stress and slow disease progression.

Controlled exercise

Gentle, low-impact activities like short walks or swimming help maintain muscle strength and mobility.

✅ A combination of these strategies often yields the best results.

Newer Treatment Options

In addition to traditional care, new veterinary therapies are providing safer and longer-lasting relief:

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Librela™

A monthly injection for dogs that targets pain at the nerve level using monoclonal antibody technology. It's especially helpful for dogs who can't tolerate NSAIDs or need consistent pain control.

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Solensia™

A similar treatment for cats with osteoarthritis. Delivered once a month, it offers a new level of pain relief for felines, who are often harder to treat with oral medications.

🚀 These medications represent a new era in veterinary pain management, with targeted mechanisms and excellent tolerability.

In Summary

Osteoarthritis doesn't mean your pet has to live in pain. With a proactive care plan—including traditional approaches and innovative options like Librela and Solensia—your pet can enjoy a more active, comfortable life. If you think your dog or cat might be showing signs of joint discomfort, consult your veterinarian to explore the best treatment path forward.

Comprehensive Joint Care at Your Home

Managing osteoarthritis requires ongoing assessment and treatment adjustments. Our mobile vet service can evaluate your pet's joint health, discuss both traditional and innovative treatment options including Librela and Solensia, and create a personalized pain management plan—all in the comfort of your home.

Is Your Pet Showing Signs of Joint Discomfort?

Schedule a consultation to explore the best treatment options for osteoarthritis.

This article is for informational purposes only. Treatment options may vary based on your pet's individual needs. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice regarding your pet's joint health and pain management plan.