Charity Reveals Extent of Pet Arthritis in UK
Figures* released today by leading veterinary charity, PDSA, give an insight into the possible extent of arthritis in the UK pet population. Analysis of the clinical records of nearly 267,000 PDSA pet patients shows that over 30% of dogs and 10% of cats UK-wide were prescribed tablets primarily used to treat problems like arthritis. And, with the festive season nearly upon us, the charity is calling for owners not only to take a closer look at the mobility of their pets, but to avoid over-feeding them, as obesity is one of the main contributory factors in making this debilitating condition even worse.
The worst affected region of the UK appears to be the South East where nearly 40%, around 2 in every 5 dogs, seen by PDSA vets were prescribed drugs to combat the pain. Whereas in the Midlands, the condition seems to be most prevalent in cats, with around 1 in 7 felines treated with these medicines.
The charity’s statistics indicate that the most supple dogs can be found in Northern Ireland, with the condition at its lowest in cats in London.
Although PDSA’s figures suggest that dogs are three times more likely to be prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) tablets in their lifetimes than cats, the charity believes the actual number of cats suffering from arthritis could actually be much higher, and is worried that cat owners might be missing the symptoms in their feline companions. Backing up the charity’s fears are the results of a recent study by Glasgow University, which found that up to 30 per cent of senior cats could be suffering from the condition.
“Arthritis is much easier to spot in dogs, which are by their nature more active than cats and often lead a much more sedentary life,” says PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, Elaine Pendlebury. “Pet owners should closely monitor their pet’s mobility so any changes can be spotted early. Any change in a pet’s behaviour or physical ability could be a sign of disease, which is why it is important to speak to your vet for advice if you are in anyway concerned about your pet’s health,” says Elaine.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. PDSA believes that pet owners can play a vital part in preventing arthritis and alleviating arthritic symptoms. Elaine says: “I have seen many cases of arthritis where the pet can be greatly helped, not only through veterinary care, but also through weight reduction and changes to their daily routine, such as including more exercise. By addressing these key factors early it could help prevent or at least reduce the symptoms of this debilitating condition later in a pet’s life.
When it comes to arthritis control, the same rules apply to pets as they do to people. Obesity puts a major strain on a pet’s joints, so a healthy balance between sensible eating and regular gentle exercise from an early age is a fantastic way of keeping pets’ in good shape. Elaine adds: “Owners can and should be making every effort to keep their pet in the best of health to ensure they have a happy, healthy and active life.”
Arthritis is not an inevitable part of old age. PDSA’s data shows pets of any age can be affected. But, the highest incidence of the condition is found in the country’s pet pensioner population and those with weight problems.
This PDSA ‘Petsie Index’ on arthritis is one of a series of facts and figures from leading veterinary charity, PDSA, which charts trends and developments in pet health and ownership.*
PDSA fast facts about arthritis:
• Over a pet’s lifetime, the smooth joint surfaces can be worn away, which can result in inflammation of the joints, stiffness and reduced mobility, resulting in arthritis.
• Obesity can lead to the onset of arthritis as it causes additional pressure on the joints.
• Advances in medical treatment means there are a range of treatments available to help treat arthritis and put the spring back in your pet’s paws!
• It is important to keep pets mobile even in their twilight years. Older pets might look happy curled up on the sofa, but a short walk – even if it is only to the end of the road or a trot round the garden on a regular basis, could help keep joints moving and stiffness at bay.”
Arthritis hotspots
A total of 266,765 PDSA pet patients were analysed, of which 173,665 were dogs, and 77,088 were cats.
Area Percentage of dogs that received pain killing and anti-inflammatory tablets
N Ireland – 23
North West – 28
Wales – 28
North East – 29
Scotland – 29
South West – 30
Midlands – 33
London – 35
South East – 39
Overall average percentage – 31
Area Percentage of cats that received pain killing and anti-inflammatory tablets
London – 5
North West – 8
North East – 9
Scotland – 10
South West – 11
South East – 12
Wales – 13
Midlands – 14
Overall average percentage – 11
Case study:
Eight-year-old Newfoundland, Hamish, from Derby, has been given a new ‘leash of life’ thanks to treatment from PDSA for arthritis. He was diagnosed with the condition five years ago and although he does still have his ‘off’ days, he is still able to go for two good walks a day, swims regularly and insists on a game of football in the garden with his owner, Sandra Thorpe (45). She says: “He was quite hyper as a youngster and while age and his condition has now calmed him down, he’s still full of character and energy.”
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