If your pet has been diagnosed with arthritis, your veterinarian will provide a treatment plan that may include medications like steroids and NSAIDs. However, there's hope in managing the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis in animals. One effective approach is ensuring they receive a balanced and nutritious diet to meet all their nutritional requirements.
How A Healthy Diet Can Help
A proper diet is vital for any pet's long and healthy life. Customizing the diet of pets with arthritis can effectively support other treatments like medication and exercise. The appropriate diet can supply essential vitamins and minerals that promote joint health, combat inflammation, and maintain energy levels. Additionally, managing the pet's weight will reduce joint pressure, alleviating some discomfort associated with the condition.
Optimal Diet For Pets With Arthritis
Designing the perfect diet for your pet involves many factors, and feeling overwhelmed is natural. That's why it's wise to consult your veterinarian or an animal nutritionist. Their expertise will guide you in creating an optimal diet that focuses on three key areas: removing inflammatory foods, including ingredients that promote joint health, and balancing calorie restrictions with adequate nutrition.
Refined grains, commonly found in commercial pet foods, can increase inflammation, along with certain meats and eggs. Carefully check ingredient labels or prepare homemade meals with whole grains or sweet potatoes. Foods high in vitamin D and calcium strengthen bones, while sufficient protein is crucial for muscle development, helping to alleviate joint pressure. Healthy fats like omega-3s found in salmon, mackerel, and other fish, enhance joint health and benefit your pet’s heart, eyes, and skin.
Supplements
Besides their regular diet, nutritional supplements designed to meet the needs of animals with arthritis are available. These include omega-3 fatty acids, green-lipped mussel, glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen. Available as individual supplements or in combination products, they are easy to administer. You can add powders or liquids to your pet's food or offer tasty chews as treats.
Additional Lifestyle Adjustments
In addition to a healthy diet, adjusting your pet's environment and exercise routine can be very beneficial. Provide a comfortable and easily accessible sleeping area to minimize stiffness and reduce the risk of additional joint injury. Avoid activities that involve jumping or abrupt movements that can strain their joints. Instead, opt for controlled, gentle exercise to maintain flexibility, mobility, and a healthy weight.
