{"id":12459,"date":"2024-12-16T09:49:04","date_gmt":"2024-12-16T09:49:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/balmesvet.com\/?p=12459"},"modified":"2025-03-20T12:02:03","modified_gmt":"2025-03-20T12:02:03","slug":"blog-osteoarthritis-dogs-cats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/balmesvet.com\/en\/blog-osteoarthritis-dogs-cats\/","title":{"rendered":"Osteoarthritis in dogs and cats: symptoms, treatments and advice"},"content":{"rendered":"

Osteoarthritis in cats and dogs<\/b>, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is one of the most common pathologies we treat in <\/span>our orthopedic and trauma specialty<\/b><\/a>. Although it is a complex disease, early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a big difference in your pet’s quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Osteoarthrosis is estimated to be as prevalent as 39.8% in dogs, although only 23.6% of dogs show clinical signs. In cats, the diagnosis of osteoarthritis is often more complicated due to the reserved nature of this species, which makes it difficult to detect early symptoms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In this article, we will address the pathophysiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for osteoarthrosis or osteoarthritis, with a focus on caregiver education and comprehensive management of affected patients.<\/span><\/p>\n

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What is osteoarthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Osteoarthrosis is a chronic, <\/span>progressive and irreversible condition<\/b> that initially affects the joint cartilage, but eventually involves all joint structures: muscles, tendons, ligaments, joint capsule and underlying bone. Although it mainly affects synovial joints, it can also involve other structures such as the spine.<\/span><\/p>\n

Among the factors that contribute to its occurrence are the following:<\/span><\/p>\n