Arthritis Treatment for Dogs and Cats in Tulsa, OK
Arthritis Treatment for Dogs and Cats in Tulsa, OKIf your pet is slower to get up in the morning, hesitates before jumping, or no longer enjoys walks the way they used to, arthritis may be the cause. Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint disease that affects a large share of older dogs and cats — and many younger pets with joint injuries or developmental problems. At Woodland West Animal Hospital, our veterinarians specialize in diagnosing and managing osteoarthritis so your pet can stay active, comfortable, and engaged.
What Causes Arthritis in Pets?
Arthritis develops when the protective cartilage in a joint breaks down, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Common contributing factors include:
- Age-related wear and tear
- Hip or elbow dysplasia
- Previous joint injuries, such as cruciate ligament tears or fractures
- Luxating patellas (kneecaps that slip out of place)
- Excess body weight from obesity
- Breed and genetics, especially in large and giant breeds
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs and Cats
Arthritis comes on gradually, so early signs are easy to mistake for “just getting older.” Watch for:
- Stiffness after rest or difficulty rising
- Limping or favoring a leg
- Reluctance to climb stairs, jump into the car, or get on furniture
- Decreased activity or shorter walks
- Licking or chewing over a joint
- Irritability when touched
- In cats: missing the litter box, less grooming, or no longer jumping onto high places
Diagnosing Arthritis
Your veterinarian will perform a complete orthopedic exam, checking range of motion, joint swelling, muscle mass, and pain response. Digital X-rays confirm arthritic changes and help identify underlying causes such as dysplasia. Our hospital has PennHIP-certified veterinarians and offers PennHIP and OFA evaluations, which help detect hip joint laxity early — before significant arthritis develops. For complex cases, CT imaging provides even greater detail.
Arthritis Treatment Options
There’s no cure for arthritis, but a multimodal approach can dramatically improve comfort and mobility. Your pet’s plan may include:
- Pain management: Veterinary anti-inflammatories and other pain medications tailored to your pet’s health
- Laser therapy: Our therapeutic laser reduces pain and inflammation without drugs or sedation
- Weight management: Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce joint stress — our nutritional counseling team can help
- Joint supplements and diets: Omega-3 fatty acids and joint-support diets available from our pharmacy
- Exercise and home modifications: Controlled, low-impact activity, ramps, rugs, and orthopedic bedding
- Surgery: When arthritis stems from a correctable problem, orthopedic surgery may help
Supporting Your Aging Pet
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions we manage in our senior care patients. Twice-yearly exams allow us to monitor your pet’s comfort and adjust their treatment over time. If your pet has trouble traveling, our house call service can bring care to your home.
Learn about other pet health conditions or see our full list of veterinary services.
Pet Arthritis FAQs
At what age do pets develop arthritis?
Arthritis is most common in senior pets, but it can begin in young dogs and cats with joint injuries, dysplasia, or other developmental problems.
Do cats get arthritis?
Yes. Arthritis is very common in older cats, but signs are subtle — such as not jumping as high, missing the litter box, or grooming less.
Can I give my dog human pain medication for arthritis?
No. Many human pain relievers, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be toxic to pets. Always use medications prescribed by your veterinarian.
How does laser therapy help arthritis?
Therapeutic laser uses light energy to reduce inflammation and pain and support tissue healing. It is painless, and many pets show improved mobility after a series of sessions.
Does weight loss really help arthritic pets?
Yes. Reducing excess weight lowers the stress on painful joints and often improves mobility as much as medication.
What are PennHIP and OFA evaluations?
PennHIP and OFA are screening methods that use X-rays to evaluate hip joint health and detect dysplasia, helping guide preventive care and breeding decisions.
Is exercise good for a pet with arthritis?
Yes, in the right form. Regular, low-impact exercise such as leash walks and swimming keeps joints moving and muscles strong. Avoid high-impact activity that worsens pain.
Help Your Pet Move Comfortably Again
Arthritis doesn’t have to slow your pet down. Call Woodland West Animal Hospital at (918) 299-1208 to schedule a mobility evaluation.