Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of chronic pain in older dogs and cats.
The challenging part? Many pets don’t show obvious signs of pain.
Instead, the changes are often subtle and gradual — and easy to mistake for “just getting older.”
At Vets North, we regularly help families identify and manage osteoarthritis pain so their pets can stay comfortable and active for longer.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint condition where cartilage breaks down over time, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
It most commonly affects:
While age is a risk factor, OA can also develop in younger animals due to injury, genetics, or joint abnormalities.
Signs of Osteoarthritis in Dogs
Dogs often show behavioural changes rather than obvious limping.
You might notice:
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Slower to get up after resting
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Hesitation jumping into the car or onto furniture
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Stiffness after exercise
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Decreased interest in walks
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Lagging behind on walks
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Difficulty with stairs
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Behaviour changes such as irritability
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Licking or chewing at joints
Because these changes develop gradually, they can be easy to overlook.
Signs of Osteoarthritis in Cats
Cats are especially good at hiding discomfort.
Signs of OA in cats may include:
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Jumping less or avoiding high places
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Difficulty grooming (coat appears unkempt)
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Reduced activity or play
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Sleeping more
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Changes in litter tray habits
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Stiffness or reluctance to move
If your cat has “slowed down,” pain could be a contributing factor.
Why Early Detection Matters
Osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, but it can be managed.
Early intervention helps:
Managing pain early can significantly improve comfort and long-term wellbeing.
Modern Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis Pain
In recent years, newer targeted therapies have become available for managing OA pain in pets.
At Vets North, we may discuss options such as:
Beransa® (for dogs)
A monthly injection designed specifically to target osteoarthritis pain pathways in dogs.
Solensia® (for cats)
A monthly injection developed to manage osteoarthritis pain in cats.
These treatments work differently from traditional anti-inflammatory medications and can be particularly helpful for pets who cannot tolerate certain oral medications.
Your veterinarian will assess your pet and discuss whether these options are suitable.
When Should You Book a Check?
If you’ve noticed any of the changes listed above — even subtle ones — it’s worth booking an assessment.
Many owners are surprised to learn their pet has been living with chronic joint discomfort.
A simple consultation can help determine whether osteoarthritis may be contributing to the changes you’re seeing.
Supporting Your Pet’s Comfort
With appropriate pain management, weight management, and supportive care, many pets with osteoarthritis continue to live happy, active lives.
If you have concerns about your dog or cat’s mobility, contact Vets North to arrange a consultation.
