Dogs and Cats - common Problems

There are many dogs and cats with joint problems, like arthritis, bursitis, osteochondrosis (OCD), hip dysplasia and other generative problems with shoulders, elbows and stiff joints. There about 60 million dogs in American and even more number of cats suffering from one of those debilitating conditions. One out of five dogs show symptoms of arthritis by the time they reach middle age and most dogs after the 5th year.

It is heartbreaking to see your pet once full of life and energy slowed down and simply prefers just to rest rather than play. Your pet is subjected to joint pain as it ages or even younger ones can sprain, stress or overused a juncture. Arthritis can affect animal's knees, ankles and hips. Joint pains and aches can reduce dogs and cats enjoyment of life and therefore, also diminishes your enjoyment of their company.

Dogs and cats with joint pains endure in silence for too often you cannot also tell that they are hurting. It is only through your initiative that they can be alleviated from their joint and arthritis pain. You must learn to identify the clue that your pet is not feeling well - be a responsible pet owner, be proactive about helping you pet get better. Luckily there are various remedies and treatments:

* Consult your veterinarian; he is there for your pets. He will examine and determine the cause of pain. If it is only a simple sprain, the remedy is rest; but more complicated disorder needs medication.
* Dose your pet with supplements. So far, the most effective is Dasuquin for dogs which are the most complete joint supplement available. It is a new breed of joint health supplement containing avocado, soybeans, unsaponificables fortified with green tea, glucosamine, MSM and low molecular chondroitin.
* Check closely your pet's weight. An overweight animal will likely suffer from joint aches. Ask your Vet's advice on your pet's ideal weight.
* Keep your pet physically active. Encourage your dog to run and dog even enjoys swimming. Cats can pounce and jump after hanging and moving toys.
* When your pet is in excess and continues pain, pain killers can be given. Dosage for cats is lesser than dogs.

1. Newer and safer NSAIDs (Non-steroid anti-inflammatory agent) are: Carprofen (Rimadyl) is given for dogs before surgery to reduce pain. Rimadyl for dogs is effective to combat arthritic pain. Ketoprofen (Orvidis, Oruvai, Oruvail, Actron, Orudis KT); Etodolac (Etogesic,- Wyeth Co.); Meloxicam (Metacam, Inobee, Borriger, Ingleheim,- Merrill Co.); and a lot of others.

2. Older and less safe NSAIDs are Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid); Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Medipren); Phenylbutozone (Butazolodine, "bute"); Peroxicam (Feldene- Pfizer) and a lot of others.

3. Pain relievers not related to NSAIDs are acelomenophen (Tylenol) and Methocarbomal (Roboxin).

4. Other non-traditional drugs include: Omega 3 fatty acids, obtained from fish, is very helpful in controlling chronic pain. You must give in moderate amount. Nutritional Center dispenses bioflavanoids which is also pain reliever. Some professionals even recommended the use of acupuncture.

Dog and cats with joint problems can only experience relief from their pain when you apply either one of the above measures.

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