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Many things can cause arthritis: old age, growth deformities, trauma and even genetics. Arthritis is another term used when describing degenerative joint disease (or the breakdown of joints) which leads to pain and arthritis. Over time, the cartilage within the joint that keeps the bones from rubbing together breaks down and allows bone to rub on top of bone. There is a covering on bone that is full of nerves and this "abnormal rubbing" is what causes pain in your animal. This sets off a series of reactions in the body to try to stabilize this area so that there is no longer abnormal motion in the joint (thus stiffness in the joint). The signs that we may see are: trouble getting up from laying, difficulty going up/down stairs, abnormal gait while running, limping, reduced activity, etc. and this is what you usually take your pet into the veterinarian for. Xrays are usually taken to evaluate the problem, the extent of the damage, and the possible treatment options. Surgery is often recommended; some animals are placed on antiinflammatories; some will require both. However, some animals are not candidates for surgery and rely heavily on the antiinflammatories (which can be harmful to organs in the long term) to control their pain. Well, now there has been research on a new way to treat these forms of arthritis--for animals that are awaiting surgery and for animals that cannot have surgery for one reason or another.

New studies show that by providing the "raw materials" or "building blocks" for cartilage to the animal that cartilage will begin to repair itself. These "building blocks" work four-fold 1) provide raw materials so that new cartilage can be made; 2) inhibit the breakdown of cartilage still present; 3) work as an antiinflammatory and 4) improve the joint lubrication mechanism. All of this means less pain and better function for your pet. These "building blocks" are called chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine-which are forms of synthetic and semi-synthetic cartilage. They can be fed to your animal (at appropriate dosages) or injected by your veterinarian. Please ask your veterinarian about the use of these products as an alternative to antiinflammatories or their use in conjunction with other treatment options and make sure to get their recommendation on dosages--as inadequate dosing will not produce the desired results.