Five ways to help avoid arthritis in pets

Pets are susceptible to a wide range of illnesses and conditions that also affect their human counterparts. Cat and dog mobility problems are very common and can not only be expensive to treat, but can cause great discomfort for our feline and canine friends. However, there are many things you can do to help prevent the development of arthritis in pets – many of which involve the basics of having a domesticated animal in the first place. Here are five ways to help keep your animal free from this debilitating illness. The right food Essential to the wellbeing of any animal is their diet. But the right pet food isn’t just about giving them a glossy coat and a lease for life; it can also help prevent the onset of arthritis and mobility problems – most notably because it directly affects their weight. A warm dry home Every dog needs a little place to call their own. And whether this is in the corner of your living room, in an indoor utility room or even an outdoor kennel, you should do everything to make sure your cat or dog is warm, dry and comfortable. Even carpeted floors can be hard on joints, so invest in a little bed to help keep them cosy. Frequent exercise Sometimes, particularly during the winter months, taking Fido out for a walk can seem like the last thing you want to do. But keeping your pet active will strengthen their muscles and keep their bones healthy. If you are a cat owner, get some toys in and Felix will probably take care of the rest himself! Regular check-ups The vet is definitely costly if you don’t have a pet insurance plan that helps cover it, but the truth is that like us humans, dogs and cats need regular check-ups to make sure everything is working properly. By seeing a vet as often as you can, you’ll make sure illnesses and conditions are noticed early and can be treated quickly. Check their history Probably something you should do early on in their lives, but you should always try and find out if your cat or dog has a family history of arthritis. Ask your breeder if your pet’s parents (or grandparents if they know them) if there have been any instances you should know about. If they are a reputable breeder, they should know and be forthcoming with the information.