Managing Osteoarthritis in Pets: Pain Relief, Mobility Tips, and Compassionate Care in Reno

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting pets—especially aging dogs and cats—but it’s often misunderstood or overlooked until it significantly limits mobility and comfort. At Peak Pet Urgent Care in Reno, Nevada, we know how distressing it can be to watch your beloved pet struggle with pain or stiffness. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing not only advanced treatment options but also compassionate support for every stage of your pet’s osteoarthritis journey.

What is Osteoarthritis and How Does It Affect Pets?

Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease, occurs when joint cartilage wears down over time, leading to inflammation, pain, and loss of mobility. Left unmanaged, it can create a cycle of discomfort, reduced activity, and further joint degeneration.

Common signs include:

  • Limping or stiffness, especially after rest
  • Swollen or warm joints
  • Reluctance to climb stairs, jump, or play
  • Irritability or withdrawal

As OA progresses, pets often show behavioral signs of chronic pain. Learn more about identifying those changes in the AAHA’s guide to common pain signs in pets.

Recognizing Osteoarthritis in Dogs vs. Cats

In Dogs:

Dogs tend to show more obvious symptoms—limping, difficulty getting up, or vocalizing when joints are touched.

In Cats:

Cats may simply become more sedentary, avoid jumping, or stop grooming. You might notice your cat urinating outside the litter box if the sides are too high to climb comfortably.

These signs can be subtle, so refer to Senior Pet Care Guidelines from AVMA and Senior Status: Understanding Your Senior Pet’s Life Stage to better recognize what’s normal and what may require attention.

What to Expect at a Veterinary Visit

At Peak Pet Urgent Care, diagnosing osteoarthritis starts with:

  • A full physical exam and joint palpation
  • X-rays to visualize cartilage loss or bone spurs
  • Bloodwork, if needed, to rule out other conditions

Early detection matters. Catching OA in its early stages can help slow progression and preserve your pet’s comfort and mobility. Our team of experienced veterinarians is here to guide you through every step.

Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis in Pets

Pain Management

We take a multimodal approach, combining:

For advanced cases, injectable treatments like Librela for dogs and Solensia for cats offer cutting-edge pain relief by targeting nerve growth factor (NGF), a key player in chronic osteoarthritic pain.

Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy

  • Hydrotherapy and gentle physical rehab exercises help maintain muscle tone and joint mobility.
  • Assistive devices such as ramps or harnesses can reduce strain. Visit Canine Arthritis Management for helpful product suggestions.

Learn more about how rehab complements OA care in the Mobility Matters Guide from AAHA.

Home Adjustments

Your home environment plays a huge role in your pet’s comfort:

  • Provide orthopedic bedding
  • Install ramps or stairs
  • Add non-slip rugs on hard floors

See Zoetis’ tips for arthritis-friendly homes for more ways to create a supportive space.

Preventive and Supportive Care for Aging Pets

Incorporating preventive care and screening into your senior pet’s routine can help identify issues early. Zoetis’ guide to preventive testing offers a helpful breakdown of what to expect.

Regular check-ins allow us to:

  • Adjust medications
  • Track disease progression
  • Provide supportive therapies to maintain your pet’s quality of life

Learn more about supporting senior pets through proactive wellness care.

How Osteoarthritis Affects Your Pet’s Emotional Health

Chronic pain doesn’t just affect your pet physically—it changes how they interact with the world. Look for:

  • Reduced interest in play
  • Avoidance of interaction
  • Increased vocalization or aggression

You know your pet best. If they don’t seem like themselves, pain could be the reason. A compassionate exam with our veterinary team can provide answers—and relief.

FAQs: Pet Osteoarthritis

Q: Is osteoarthritis curable?
A: OA isn’t curable, but it is manageable. With a tailored treatment plan, many pets live long, comfortable lives.

Q: Can OA flare up suddenly?
A: Yes. Cold weather, overexertion, or progression can cause flare-ups. Sudden lameness or extreme stiffness should prompt a veterinary visit.

Q: When should I seek urgent care?
A: If your pet is suddenly unable to walk, is crying in pain, or refuses to eat, call us. Sudden worsening may indicate a joint injury or complication.

Q: Where can I learn more about cognitive and joint health in aging pets?
A: Visit Cornell’s guide on canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome for insights into mental and physical aging changes.

Partner with Peak Pet Urgent Care in Reno

At Peak Pet Urgent Care, we believe in compassionate, collaborative care—especially when your pet is in pain. Whether you’re dealing with early signs of joint stiffness or managing an advanced case of OA, we’re here to support both you and your pet.

With the right treatment, your pet can move more comfortably, feel more like themselves, and enjoy the golden years they deserve.