Breaking down our recommendations for OA management in dogs and cats
What is OA?
Osteoarthritis, or commonly referred to as just "arthritis", is an inflammatory condition in the joints. Most often this inflammation leads to loss of cartilage, the protective layer on the surface of bones within joints. It also leads to break down of hyaluronic acid, which helps to cushion the joints. When this shock absorbing system is broken down, the bone beneath begins to remodel trying to compensate for the change in force within the joint. As such, we end up with an irregular joint surface and thickened joint capsule that can decrease the range of motion of joints and lead to pain.
What are clinical signs of OA?
Who gets OA?
What treatment options exist for OA?
Why do we care about OA?
Final Thoughts
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