old age?

Question
I have a Siamese cat that is 16 yrs old and a mixed shepard dog that is 14 and both of them have their back legs starting to bend under sort of like a kankaroos legs. What is causing this? Also, is excessive panting in a dog indicate that he is is pain?

Answer
Joan-

You are describing the symptoms of arthritis- just like humans, the joints will begin to warp. I'm sorry!

A visit to your vet to allow your beloved pets to be placed on pain medication to ease their joints will really help. I also love cosequin, MSM, shark cartlidge, chondrotin and glucosamine. The last four can be bought over the counter or on Ebay. They will really help them with pain!

Excessive panting *can* indicate a higher then normal pain level, it can also indicate heart problems. If they are panting regularly when it is not hot, I would take them to the vet.

I hope they feel better and settle in to their "old" age! :)