Winter’s impact on pets with arthritis 

Winter can be a challenging time for pets with arthritis, exacerbating symptoms and reducing comfort. The cold weather can cause joints to stiffen and ache, resulting in pain and making it difficult for pets to move around with ease. Additionally, wet, and frosty conditions can increase the risk of slips and falls, potentially causing further injury to already vulnerable joints.  

Arthritis is the most common leading cause of chronic pain in both pets and humans and is characterised by joint inflammation and stiffness.¹ It can also be challenging to identify arthritic change in cats, but reluctance to jump is a key signal that your cat might be experiencing joint discomfort.  

Prevalence and Susceptibility 

Arthritis is a prevalent condition in aging pets and affects approximately 40% of both dogs and cats, according to PetSure data 2023. The natural aging and degeneration process can contribute to the development of arthritis, but other factors such as traumatic injury, genetics, and excess weight can also play a role. Certain dog breeds, especially larger ones like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers, are more susceptible to arthritis due to their size and genetic predisposition².  

While dogs often exhibit symptoms at a younger age, typically prompting treatment around nine years of age, arthritis in cats tends to manifest later, with a significant increase in claims around age 13. By the time cats reach 15 years old, about one third of PetSure customers may submit a claim for arthritis³. This may be linked to the relative difference in lifespan, with cats typically living longer than dogs, but size also has an impact on aging joints. Larger, heavier dogs place more pressure through their joints, and this is further exacerbated with obesity. 

Treatment and Management 

Treatment typically involves a multi-modal approach, encompassing pain management, lifestyle, and environmental factors to address diet, bodyweight, and exercise.  

Analgesia and Anti-Inflammatory Medications 

Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication form the cornerstone of arthritis management in pets, ensuring comfort and mobility, particularly during the winter months. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to target one of the key underlying causes of arthritis, joint inflammation. Depending on the severity of the condition these medications can also be combined with different pain relief drugs. The aim of NSAIDs is to provide much-needed pain relief, but due to their potential side effects they are not typically considered a long-term solution. A new class of injectable medications called monoclonal antibodies are now available that specifically target and block the cause of osteoarthritic pain at source. They are administered by a veterinarian and have minimal side effects. Other newer options target fluid within the joint itself, to repair, cushion and lubricate the damaged cartilage and are given as a course of injections. Regardless of the medication used, it is important for pet owners that all are administered and monitored under the close guidance of a veterinarian, as any drug has the potential to cause negative side effects. With the right medication regimen, pet parents can help make their pets more comfortable and enjoy a better quality of life, particularly in the colder months. 

Diet 

Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, are anti-inflammatory in nature and can help alleviate some of the symptoms of arthritis in pets. By including Omega-3 supplements or incorporating foods rich in these fatty acids into the diet, pet owners can potentially reduce inflammation in their pets’ joints, easing discomfort and promoting better mobility. Omega-3 fatty acids also offer other health benefits, such as supporting cardiovascular health and promoting a shiny coat and healthy skin. But, as with any dietary change or supplement, it’s essential for pet owners to consult with their veterinarian to ensure they’re providing the right dosage and formulation for their pet’s specific needs and not contributing to weight gain.  

Weight Management and Diet 

Maintaining optimal weight is vital in managing arthritis symptoms, as excess weight places increased pressure on already compromised joints. Implementing weight loss or calorie-controlled diets and incorporating appropriate gentle exercises to reach and maintain an ideal body condition is fundamental. This approach is also advisable for pets predisposed to or at increased risk of developing arthritis. 

Exercise 

Swimming and hydrotherapy are ideal forms of exercise for arthritic pets. Dogs are generally more amenable to this than cats, but gentle play with a fishing rod toy is good to keep indoor cat’s mobile. For walks during colder temperatures, consider jerseys to keep your pet warm, especially for those with little to no hair or fur. After your pet has been outdoors, always remember to dry their coat and wipe their paws to remove any excess moisture, particularly when frost or snow are present, and this will also help prevent skin infections⁴.  

Comfort 

Keeping your pet warm during the colder months is especially important for pets with arthritis, as colder temperatures can worsen joint stiffness and discomfort.  

Providing an orthopedic pet bed or a trampoline bed, plus plenty of soft bedding in a draft-free area can promote better sleep and reduce discomfort. Also consider introducing dog and cat suitable warm clothing for older pets that live in cool or draughty homes, so long as they are used to wearing clothing and it doesn’t trigger a stressful response. 

Does pet insurance cover treatments for arthritis? 

PetSure’s pet insurance policies include coverage for the management of arthritis. This means pet parents have more options to help ease their pet’s pain and can focus on keeping them pain free and comfortable.  

Managing arthritis in pets involves a varied, multi-modal approach. As a responsible pet parent, it’s essential to remain observant and proactive, especially during the colder months. Remember, your veterinarian is your trusted partner in managing your pet’s arthritis effectively, so don’t hesitate to seek their guidance and support. 

FAQs regarding pets with arthritis over winter 

Do cooler temperatures impact my pet with arthritis? 

Just like in humans with arthritis, cooler temperatures can aggravate sore joints in pets, increasing stiffness and pain. 

Is my pet overweight? 

You should consult with your veterinarian who can weigh your pet and also determine your pet’s Body Condition Score (BCS). 

When viewed from above, your cat or dog should have an observable waist, between the end of the rib cage and the start of the back legs. When you gently palpate along their rib area – you should be able to feel the ribs with a small amount of fat covering (not excess fat). When viewed side on, the abdomen should be tucked up⁵⁶. 

If your pet is overweight, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to identify an appropriate weight loss management protocol. 

Do complementary therapies work? 

Complementary therapies like massage therapy and physical therapy when combined with traditional treatments can offer further pain relief for pets suffering with arthritis⁷.  

Hydrotherapy can also help alleviate arthritis symptoms in dogs by providing low-impact exercise that strengthens muscles and improves joint mobility. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on affected joints, offering relief while facilitating range of motion and enhancing overall well-being for arthritic dogsⁱ⁸. 

Would an orthopedic or trampoline bed benefit my pet with arthritis? 

An orthopedic pet bed is designed to distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on joints and pressure points. Memory foam can adapt to your pet’s body shape, providing further support⁹¹⁰.  

A trampoline bed with its suspended design minimises strain on sensitive areas, providing a comfortable and supportive resting surface for pets with mobility issues^11. Similar to an orthopaedic pet bed it also evenly distributes body weight, reducing discomfort and pressure points. 

Would a hot water bottle or electric blanket benefit my pet with arthritis? 

Avoid hot water bottles or electric blankets due to the risk of burns or pets chewing electrical cords, instead opt for a gently heated wheat bag, ensuring supervision at all times.  

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Sources 

What is Arthritis n.d., Canine Arthritis Resource & Education, Canine Arthritis Resource & Education, viewed 7 May 2024, <https://caninearthritis.org/dog-owner/what-is-arthritis/>. 

Arthritis pain: Do’s and don’ts 2023, Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic, viewed 7 May 2024, <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440>. 

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Browns Vet Physio 2024, Exploring Alternative Therapies for Pet Arthritis Relief, brownsvetphysio.co.uk, brownsvetphysio.co.uk, viewed 7 May 2024, <https://www.brownsvetphysio.co.uk/post/exploring-alternative-therapies-for-pet-arthritis-relief>. 

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‌Keep pets warm in winter: Can a change in seasons affect them? n.d., RSPCA Pet Insurance, RSPCA Pet Insurance, viewed 8 May 2024, <https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/responsible-pet-ownership/how-to-keep-your-pet-warm-in-winter>. 

RSPCA 2019, How do I tell if my dog is overweight?, rspca.org.au, RSPCA Australia, viewed 8 May 2024, <https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/how-do-i-tell-if-my-dog-is-overweight/>. 

Gray, E. (2024). Is My Cat Overweight? Vet-Approved Ways to Spot Feline Obesity & Prevention. [online] hepper.com. Available at: https://www.hepper.com/is-my-cat-overweight/ [Accessed 8 May 2024]. 

‌Kvamme, J 2014, Orthopedic Beds for Senior Cats, petmd.com, petMD, viewed 8 May 2024, <https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/orthopedic-beds-senior-cats>. 

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Cosgrove, N 2024, Do Heating Pads Help With a Dog’s Arthritis? Vet Approved Facts & FAQs, Dogster, Dogster, viewed 8 May 2024, <https://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/do-heating-pads-help-with-a-dogs-arthritis#:~:text=The%20answer%20is%20yes.%20Heat%20treatments%20increase%20blood,and%20rigidity%20to%20offer%20relief%20from%20arthritic%20pain.>. 

Greystanes Vet Clinic n.d., ‘Healing Paws: Canine Hydrotherapy for Arthritis Relief, www.greystanesvet.com.au, Greystanes Vet Clinic, viewed 16 May 2024, <https://www.greystanesvet.com.au/post/healing-paws-canine-hydrotherapy-for-arthritis-relief>. 

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