May is recognized annually as National Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis affects more than 50 million Americans, making it the number-one cause of disability in the country. Osteoarthritis is a very common problem in small animals, as well. It has been estimated that around 20 percent of dogs and 40 percent of cats will be affected by osteoarthritis at some point in their lives. < ref. link-1 > < ref.link-2 >
. . . it’s important to know that aging itself is not a disease.” – Kathryn Primm, DVM
Source: Fear Free Happy Homes, May 6, 2019. Link. Arthritis treatments can include the following:
- Supplements and medications
- Physical therapy and mobility exercises
- Acupuncture
- Laser therapy
- Weight loss to decrease stress on joints
Also see: 2015 AAHA/AAFP Pain Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. Link.
INSIGHTS: Pain management represents a large portion of revenues for distribution, retailers and veterinary hospitals. Consider communicating about arthritis, disease detection and its likely early beginnings before pets’ senior years.