Common Joint Issues in Pets and How to Manage Discomfort

One of the best parts of raising a pet is getting to watch them run, wiggle, stretch, and play. Whether you're tossing a ball for your pup to chase or playing a game of hunt and pounce with your cat, it’s amazing to see all the different ways they move and express themselves. There’s something so special about seeing a dog wag its tail so hard that its whole body shakes or watching a cat stretch out in a perfect downward dog. These little moments make having a pet so much fun, and it’s important that each pet gets to enjoy them comfortably.

Dogs and cats come from a long line of wild hunters, so they're naturally built to move freely and quickly. Whether they’re running, chasing, stretching, or just curling up next to you on the couch, being able to move easily is a huge part of who they are and how they connect with us. Playtime isn't just fun—it’s important for their mental and physical well-being too! If you’re a dog parent, you probably know that daily walks and runs are just as important for you as they are for your four-legged friend.

This is why it can be tough to see your pet’s movements slow down due to due hip or joint discomfort. Aging and other health issues can affect their mobility, making it harder for them to move like they used to. Watching your pet struggle to get up or play with their toys more slowly hit you in the heart. Knowing what’s causing their discomfort is the first step to addressing the issue and getting them the relief they need.

There are two main types of joint discomfort in pets, developmental and degenerative.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of degenerative joint issue in pets. It affects the ligaments, which connect muscles to bones. As these ligaments deteriorate, they can cause instability and make movement extremely uncomfortable. According to Texas A&M’s Department of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, arthritis is a common condition for aging dogs. It can manifest in various ways, from difficulty getting up in the morning to lameness. Pets may show a reduced interest in their usual activities or struggle with tasks like walking, playing, or jumping up to greet you.

Developmental Joint Discomfort

Developmental joint problems occur when a joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia. These issues are often genetic, stemming from a hereditary predisposition to poor joint development. Certain breeds, such as purebred German Shepherds, are more prone to these disorders. While various treatment options are available, it's best to consult with your veterinarian. They might recommend supplements, medication, or even surgery. However, before considering more invasive treatments like surgery, trying natural options with fewer risks and lower costs, such as CBD, can be a good approach.

What causes joint discomfort in pets?

While some joint discomfort is caused by genetics or hereditary dispositions, others are caused by degenerative issues, such as age and overuse. Dogs and cats use their bodies fully and are generally jumping and running around a lot. Certain breeds of dogs, such as Dachshunds need to be incredibly careful about jumping from heights (relative to their small size of course) because of their long spines. However careful you are with your pet; age comes for us all and many degenerative joint conditions in your pet are simply due to age.

Can joint discomfort be prevented?

Many factors contribute to joint discomfort, with a nutritious diet and weight management being key. Providing your pet with quality food gives them the essential nutrients needed for healing and maintaining overall health. Swapping high-calorie treats for vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes can help your pet maintain a healthy weight. Proper portion control and regular exercise also play a big role in reducing stress and wear on the joints, ligaments, and muscles, which can help alleviate occasional joint discomfort.

The second way to keep your pet’s joints healthy and strong is to provide them with plenty of healthy exercise. For dogs, this means regular walks and runs, while for cats, it means lots of playtime. Playing with toys is a great way for both cats and dogs to stay active and keep their joints strong. Regular exercise also supports bone health, which benefits the muscles and ligaments. Make smart choices when it comes to exercise. For example, running at a dog park on grass can reduce the stress on your dog’s joints compared to walking on asphalt or hard streets.

The third way to keep your pet’s joints healthy is to schedule regular vet checkups. These visits help catch any potential issues early and can lead to timely diagnoses and proactive treatment plans. Your vet can work with you to develop strategies for preventing mobility issues and provide a treatment plan if any problems arise.

What can I give my pet with joint discomfort and mobility issues?

Supplements can be a great addition to your pet’s routine to help manage joint discomfort or mobility issues. Here are a few options to consider:

Supplements like Hip & Joint Edibites, made with Full Spectrum Hemp Extract and enhanced with functional ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and noni, are an easy way to add CBD and its health benefits to your pet’s daily routine. These chews are designed to provide preventative care and can also be used for pets experiencing occasional discomfort.

If your pet has more persistent issues, a targeted Hip & Joint oil may be more beneficial. CBD, along with devil's claw, work to enhance flexibility and promote healthy joint function.

Adding a good Omega 3 supplement to your pet's routine can also provide essential nutrients needed to keep them healthy and active. Omega 3 products can be used for long-term daily use.

Combining CBD with Omega-3s gives you a well-rounded approach that supports a healthy inflammatory response and boosts joint health and mobility, helping your pet move around smoothly and freely.