When people hear "arthritis," they often think of aging and degeneration. However, arthritis is not exclusive to older pets; genetic factors, obesity, incorrect postures, and excessive joint use can also lead to joint injuries and conditions.

1. Common Joint Diseases Beyond Degenerative Arthritis

Common joint diseases in dogs:

• Patellar luxation
• Cruciate ligament rupture
• Traumatic arthritis

Common joint diseases in cats:

• Hip dysplasia
• Femoral head luxation
• Traumatic arthritis

These leading joint diseases often stem from genetic predispositions but share a common factor: excessive activity. Affected pets frequently come from households where they are allowed to roam freely.

To prevent joint issues, the first step is to avoid letting pets roam unsupervised! This not only prevents excessive exercise that can lead to injuries but also significantly reduces the risk of harm to themselves or others.

Additionally, to protect your pet's joints, consider improving their environment (such as using non-slip mats and pet stairs), maintaining proper weight control, scheduling regular check-ups, and providing appropriate supplements. These measures can effectively prevent and slow down joint degeneration, offering better protection for their joints.

2. Internal Factors That May Trigger Joint Disease

In addition to external influences, bodily changes can also lead to joint problems, such as autoimmune disorders like lupus, congenital hip dysplasia, or arthritis caused by incorrect medication.

Besides regular check-ups, daily interactions with your pet can help you observe any unusual behavior in their limbs or movements, aiding in the prevention of severe joint issues. If your pet shows signs of joint discomfort or other health problems, please consult a veterinarian instead of purchasing medications online, as incorrect treatment could worsen their condition or cause additional health issues.

3. Signs to Watch for That Indicate Joint Discomfort

People often misinterpret decreased energy as a normal part of aging, not realizing it could be a precursor to chronic arthritis, masking many unspoken difficulties for pets. If your pet exhibits any of the following signs, it's advisable to seek veterinary care, as early-stage joint diseases can be hard to detect without professional evaluation and imaging.

• Excessive licking or chewing at joint areas
• Lethargy, spending long periods lying in one spot
• Decreased appetite and water intake
• Difficulty with bowel movements or urination
• Stiff movements, occasionally lying rigid or shivering

Degenerative arthritis is a chronic, progressive joint disease that leads to the loss of cartilage, formation of bone spurs, and fibrosis around the joints. It is an irreversible issue that can easily occur as pets age. While we cannot stop the aging process in pets, we can delay degeneration and inflammation. In addition to dietary care and weight control, avoiding high-impact exercises (like running and jumping) in favor of low-impact activities (like swimming and leashed walks) can be beneficial.