Pet Insurance Australia Issues a Warning on Pet Arthritis

Recognise the Symptoms and Seek Early Treatment

[Australia, July 2024] As cooler weather sets in across Australia, Pet Insurance Australia alerts pet owners to the increased risk of osteoarthritis (OA) in their furry companions.

“With the winter months exacerbating symptoms, it is essential to be vigilant and proactive in managing this condition,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia emphasises. “As responsible pet owners, it’s crucial to remember that dogs (and cats!) can be masters at masking their pain. So, if you notice any symptoms, it’s best to seek veterinary advice quickly.”

Key Insights on Arthritis in Pets

Arthritis is a common issue among aging pets, affecting around 40% of dogs and cats, according to 2023 data from PetSure.

“The condition is primarily associated with the natural aging process and joint degeneration, but it can also result from injuries, genetic factors, and excess weight,” Crighton warns. “Larger breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers are particularly prone to arthritis due to their size and genetic makeup.”

In dogs, arthritis symptoms typically appear earlier, often leading to treatment by the age of nine. In contrast, cats usually start showing signs of arthritis later, with a notable increase in related claims beginning around age 13*.

“This discrepancy can be attributed to the longer lifespan of cats compared to dogs,” Crighton says. “The greater body mass of larger dogs also increases the stress on their joints, a problem that can be further aggravated by obesity.”

Pet Insurance Australia also notes that felines are also much better at masking their symptoms compared to dogs.

“When it comes to our precious cats it’s important for owners to take note of their habits,” Crighton suggests. “If you notice your cat having a reluctance to jump, or an unkept coat from less self-grooming it’s best to seek professional advice in regard to arthritis as by this stage it can be quiet advanced.”

However, it is essential to note that arthritis is not just an older pet problem. It can affect pets of any age, size, or breed.

“We also see a number of claims for pets under the age of eight,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “Any dog, regardless of age, size, or breed, can develop OA, so it’s imperative that pet owners monitor any symptoms and seek professional advice.”

Early management is crucial as OA is a chronic, irreversible disease. The earlier the symptoms are recognised and treated (or managed), the better the outcome for the pet.

“The cooler weather can increase the onset of symptoms in our pets,” Crighton says. “So if pet owners notice any of the following, it is advisable to seek treatment.”

 Common Symptoms:

• Sore, stiff joints
• Limping or lameness
• Reluctance to run or jump
• Pain in the joint when moving or jumping
• Difficulty getting up
• Muscle wastage
• Sleeping more, being lethargic
• Groaning or yelping when moving

“For cats, symptoms might include difficulty grooming hard-to-reach areas or avoiding high perches, as well as litter mishaps.”

 Effective Treatment and Management

• Medication: Pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and new monoclonal antibodies, can alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Diet: Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids and maintaining an appropriate weight can significantly reduce joint stress and inflammation.
• Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming and gentle play are beneficial in keeping joints mobile without causing additional strain.
• Comfort: Providing a supportive bed and ensuring pets are warm can help manage discomfort.

According to the recent PetSure Pet Health Monitor data, arthritis is in the top ten health conditions for pet insurance claims for cats and dogs.

“Coming in at the number two position for both cats and dogs does illustrate that arthritis is a major concern amongst many pet owners. With a pet insurance policy, in addition to any immediate treatment, pet parents could be up for an average annual cost of between $587-$1,600 depending on the pain relief protocol they choose,” Crighton reiterates, highlighting the importance of considering pet insurance in managing these costs.

The average arthritis treatment cost for a feline (without surgery) is approximately $631, with the maximum cost coming in at $3,686. Our canine companions’ average treatment cost is $682, with a maximum of $12,387*.

The reassuring news is that all pets can benefit from the diverse treatment options available to ensure their pets can enjoy life while living with arthritis pain.

“Understanding the financial implications this common condition can add to the family budget is an important part of responsible pet ownership, particularly as pets age,” Crighton emphasises.

Winter Care Tips:

• Keep pets active with suitable low-impact exercises.
• Monitor and maintain an ideal weight to reduce joint strain.
• Provide a balanced diet, removing excess treats.
• Ensure a warm, comfortable environment with supportive bedding.

*PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2024

https://petsure.com.au/pet-health-monitor/

Featured by:

• 7 News

Nadia Crighton

Nadia Crighton is a renowned and accomplished professional in the fields of Journalism, Public Relations, and Writing, with an extensive career spanning over 25 years, 20 of which have been dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of pets.

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