Why Some Senior Pets Seem More Uncomfortable in Spring
Springtime is full of promise, growth, and new life, but it can also pose challenges for the special pooches and kitties in our lives. You might notice your elderly dog struggling to stand up after she wakes up in the morning. Or your senior kitty might only climb to the lowest branch of his cat condo.
Perhaps you thought warmer weather would mean more mobility. If it doesn’t, you might feel worried and unsure of how to help your senior pet’s signs of pain in the spring. The good news is that the team at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates is here to help.
Why Does Spring Cause Mobility Issues in Senior Dogs and Cats?
Plenty of senior pets live with arthritis. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), approximately 1 in 5 dogs is diagnosed within their lifetime. Even if your pup previously didn’t show signs of arthritis, this could very well have changed during a long, cold winter.
Plus, cold weather can make joints stiff, which means that when springtime comes with its burst of extra activity, that stiffness can seem to appear out of nowhere. While you might be delighted that you get to take your dog for long walks outside again or toss tennis balls for him to fetch, your dog might be experiencing joint pain after the winter.
Cue stiffness, limping, and a struggle in getting up or down the stairs.
Spring is also known for her capricious nature. One day it might be balmy outside. The next day, it could be hailing. These fluctuations in temperature and changes in barometric pressure can make arthritis flare-ups worse in pets.
Finally, winter can also lead to a decrease in activity, which can contribute to winter weight gain that’s hard on your pet’s joints.
Symptoms of Cat and Dog Joint Pain After Winter
Let’s explore some of the signs of senior pet arthritis in the spring. Watch out for:
- Difficulty standing up, sitting, or lying down
- Reluctance to climb the stairs, jump up onto the couch or bed, or play
- Stiffness, especially after a long night of sleep
- Slower walks that look like they take more effort than usual
- Limping or favoring one leg
- Irritability, lethargy, and other changes in behavior
Remember that while dogs may be more open about their pain, cats tend to hide discomfort. For felines, you might only notice lessened grooming, fewer jumps to favorite perches, or difficulty using the litter box.
How You Can Support Your Furry Family Member
If you suspect your pet is struggling with seasonal arthritis symptoms, a veterinary visit is the first step to treatment. While arthritis can’t be treated, it can be managed with a customized plan.
Treatment might include measures like:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Joint supplements
- Weight management diets
- Gentle, low-impact exercise
- Laser therapy
The caring team at Beverly Hills Veterinary Center is here to support your pet in their joint pain journey. Call us to schedule an appointment today at (248) 646-5655.