Older pets could be living with undiagnosed arthritis, warns Mansfield vet

Many pet owners assume that slowing down is simply a natural part of ageing, but vets at a Mansfield Woodhouse vet is encouraging owners to look more closely.

Experts at Carrick Vets in Mansfield Woodhouse say subtle changes in behaviour, movement and daily habits could actually be signs of painful cat and dog arthritis.

Emma Hallam, Practice Manager, said: "One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that slowing down is simply part of getting older.

 "A dog that no longer wants to walk as far, hesitates before using the stairs, or takes longer to get comfortable may be experiencing chronic joint pain. Likewise, cats can show very subtle changes that owners often put down to age.

 "The good news is that arthritis in cats and dogs can often be managed very successfully. The sooner we identify it, the sooner we can help improve a pet's comfort, joint health, mobility and quality of life."

 Warning signs to look out for in dogs include a reluctance to walk or exercise, difficulty using stairs, dfficulty getting comfortable and changes in temperament or behaviour.

Cat warning sigs are hesitating before jumping onto furniture, taking easier routes around the home, reduced grooming and spending less time playing.

Owners can read CVS Vets’ full arthritis guidance for cats https://www.cvsvets.com/health/conditions/arthritis-in-older-cats and dogs https://www.cvsvets.com/health/conditions/arthritis-in-older-dogs.