Aurora Animal Hospital
Pets feel pain in much the same manner that people do but are often much better at hiding signs of pain and being very stoic. In the past this was considered evidence that they did not feel as much pain as people but we know from extensive studies that is not the case and pets will experience pain to the same things that would hurt us.
Some signs of pain in pets include:
Hiding
Reluctance to movement such as jumping on/off furniture or using stairs
Unwillingness to play
Decreased appetite
Increased panting or restlessness
Limping
Whimpering
Trembling
Not all pets will exhibit all of these symptoms, and not all of these symptoms are specific to pain. Vocalizing pain is actually uncommon in pets unless it is severe. It is important to recognize that just because a pet does not cry, limp, or show other obvious signs of pain, that does not mean it is not in pain. We can utilize a variety of medications and supplements to manage both acute and chronic pain depending on the underlying cause and your pet’s overall health.
Supplements:
Joint Supplements –Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis, is the number one cause of chronic pain in dogs and cats. Glucosamine chondroitin supports cartilage health and helps block enzymes triggered by inflammation that break down cartilage. Dasuquin is a veterinary formulated joint supplement, one of the most effective ones on the market, combining glucosamine chondroitin and other essential ingredients to be very effective at protecting joint health and cartilage. It is recommended to start dogs on joint supplements around 7 years of age in most cases or sooner if there is history of joint disease.
Fish oil supplements have DHA and omega 3 fatty acids which help reduce inflammation in joints and other areas of the body, and thus reduce some of the damage from the inflammation causing arthritis. Salmon oil is the preferred source for fish oil supplements.
CBD oil - Studies to evaluate the dosage, efficacy, and side effects are ongoing so we are unable to provide information regarding those specifics at this time. Possible side effects are unknown but anecdotally clients have reported improvement in pain control with its use. There are no regulations for CBD products in pets so quality and efficacy can vary widely depending on source. Use of products with THC is not recommended and illegal to prescribe as it is toxic to dogs and cats and can result in severe symptoms or death.
Medications:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) address the problem at the source to reduce pain and swelling by reducing inflammation in dogs. While these medications are generally well tolerated they do have some risk of side effects including gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea) or kidney or liver enzyme elevation over time. Yearly bloodwork is required to monitor organ function.
Do not use over-the-counter human medications such as ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as these can be very dangerous to dogs and cats, resulting in severe symptoms or death.
Additional pain medications may be prescribed depending on health conditions and severity of discomfort.
Librela (bedinvetmab) is a once monthly injection that controls arthritis pain in dogs to increase comfort, mobility, and quantity of life. It functions like naturally occurring antibodies with minimal metabolism by the liver or kidneys. Without the hassle of having to give oral medications and almost no side effects this is a great option for arthritic dogs! Learn more about Librela here.
Solensia (frunevetmab) is a once monthly injection that controls arthritis pain in cats to increase comfort, mobility, and quantity of life. It functions like naturally occurring antibodies with minimal metabolism by the liver or kidneys. Without the hassle of having to give oral medications and almost no side effects this is a great option for arthritic cats! Learn more about Solensia here.
Adequan Canine (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is the only FDA approved disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD) that inhibits cartilage loss in the dog's synovial joints, and may help to restore joint lubrication, relieve inflammation, renew the building blocks of healthy cartilage. It is most effective when given at earlier stages of the disease process or after an acute injury. Learn more about Adequan here.
At Aurora Animal Hospital we will provide recommendations based on your pet’s history, symptoms, physical exam findings, and underlying health conditions. Please schedule an appointment to evaluate your pet’s pain management needs.
