As the temperatures drop, many pet owners notice their companions are moving a little slower or spending more time in bed.
For pets suffering from arthritis, winter can amplify discomfort and stiffness. The cold weather causes muscles to tense up and can lead to increased joint pain, making those short winter walks or simple movements much harder.
Recognising the subtle signs of pain is the first step to helping your pet stay comfortable. These can include hesitation before jumping up, climbing stairs, or going outside; taking a long time to get up after resting; a stiff or awkward gait first thing in the morning; excessive licking or chewing at a painful joint; and becoming more withdrawn, irritable, or less engaged in play.
You can make a huge difference right now with some simple adjustments:
- Keep them warm: Provide extra orthopaedic bedding in warm areas of the house, away from cold draughts. A pet-safe heated pad can be a fantastic comfort boost.
- Ensure grip: Use non-slip rugs or runners on hard floors to prevent slips and falls, which can severely aggravate sore joints.
- Maintain movement: Gentle, short, and regular walks are better than long, strenuous ones. Movement helps keep joints lubricated.
Managing arthritis often involves regular medication administration, joint supplement injections, and pain scoring, which can be stressful if it requires frequent trips to the clinic. At The Pawtable Veterinary Nurse, I can provide necessary arthritis care within the quiet, familiar warmth of your own home, ensuring maximum comfort for your older or painful pet, right when they need it most.
Let’s make sure your senior pet stays cosy and comfortable this winter.
Kate Springham RVN
The Pawtable Veterinary Nurse
