Just as with humans, as our pets age their joints are subject to wear and tear becoming stiff and immobile, often due to the deterioration of cartilage. This can also occur if your pet has suffered trauma to the joint. Arthritis is the root cause of pain in dogs and cats. It is estimated that 7 in 10 dogs suffer from arthritis at some point and according to statistics between 25 and 30 percent of all dogs in the UK currently suffer from arthritis. Although arthritis is less common in cats, it still causes painful movement and requires treatment.
Signs your pet is suffering with arthritis
Common symptoms of arthritis in cats and dogs are limping or favouring one limb over another, stiffness and slowness as your pet gets up, reluctance to go on walks or exercise, excessive panting, and sleeping more than usual.
Why glucosamine?
If your pet is losing their mobility then introducing a glucosamine supplement can offer them relief and greatly improve the condition of their joints. Glucosamine is found naturally in cartilage and synovial fluid surrounding joints and studies have shown that glucosamine supplements are absorbed and distributed in the joint tissues. This helps promote healthy joints and even provides anti inflammatory properties.
An overwhelming majority of pets respond to glucosamine, making them more lively, active, and animated. In addition there can be no placebo effects in pets, so when they are walking and jumping about again you know they really are feeling better.
Most drugs simply treat the pain and do not improve the underlying condition causing the inflammation. They can also have nasty side effects. Glucosamine can not only help reduce pain, but can also help prevent the wear and tear from worsening, and in some cases even improves the condition of the joint.
It is most effective to start glucosamine supplementation as early as possible, however it is never too late to feel the benefits. Many customers also choose to give their pets a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin, as this added ingredient further enhances glucosamine's effectiveness.
What else can you do?
There are additional changes you can make to your pets lifestyle to reduce the pain of arthritis:
� Keep their weight down � excess weight puts more strain on every joint, and will therefore cause the pain to be more intense. Weight gain can also further complicate the condition.
� Regular gentle exercise � finding the right balance of rest and exercise is essential. Exercise helps keeps joints warmed up and fluid, and helps keep weight under control.
� Warm conditions � if possible your pet will gravitate to warmer areas of the home. The cold often makes arthritic joints stiffer and more painful.
The best news is that we have the options available to improve our pets quality of life, even when they suffer from arthritis. Popular supplements such as glucosamine can greatly improve your pets mobility and quality of life. So give your best friend the quality of life they deserve.
For more information regarding pet supplements and glucosamine, visit SimplySupplements. Alternatively, simply call freephone 0800 988 0292 to speak to an advisor.
