By Pauline Machado
It's not uncommon for dogs and cats to have joint or spinal problems. These patients need an adapted routine, with more comfort, safety, and attention on a daily basis.
Conditions such as hip dysplasia, herniated discs, or osteoarthritis are common, especially in older, obese animals or those of predisposed breeds. Without proper daily care, these conditions can worsen, causing chronic pain, loss of mobility, and directly impacting the pet's quality of life.
Therefore, it is essential that family members of dogs and cats pay attention to the details of the environment, the use of support accessories, feeding, and appropriate physical stimulation.
According to Veterinary Physiatrist Patrick Infante, with minor adaptations and an individualized plan, it is possible to preserve the animal's autonomy, reduce discomfort, and promote well-being even in the face of physical limitations.
In this interview, we will cover the main practical guidelines for everyday life.
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Pet Med – What are the most common signs that a pet may be experiencing joint or spinal pain or limitations?
Patrick Infante – Some breeds are more predisposed to orthopedic problems, and senior animals can also suffer from pain, so it's very important to pay attention to the signs, however subtle they may be. Pets may show decreased activity, spending a lot of time lying down or not finding a comfortable position to lie down, they may have difficulty getting up, they may slip easily, as well as show loss of appetite, difficulty urinating and defecating, excessive licking of a joint, raising the painful limb, reduced paw contact time with the floor, and limping. Some may become reactive to touch in certain parts of the body and try to bite. In the case of felines, they hide or stop climbing on objects. Therefore, whenever a pet shows any of these signs, seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
Pet Med – What adaptations to the home environment are recommended to prevent falls, slips, or unnecessary exertion in these pets?
Patrick Infante – It's always good to pay attention to the environment, especially the flooring. Porcelain tiles are practical and easy to clean, but animals have difficulty walking on them, especially polished and smooth ones. Ideally, you should create a path that facilitates movement without them slipping, using non-slip mats or tatami mats that provide grip when walking and jumping from sofas, beds, or other elevated furniture. For toy and chondrodystrophic breeds, it's advisable to have access ramps or stairs to beds and sofas so they don't jump when getting on or off these pieces of furniture, as the repetitive impact can lead to trauma.
Pet Med – Does handling or moving a pet change? How should family members position the animal correctly, for example, when placing it on the bed or sofa and when getting it down from these pieces of furniture?
Patrick Infante – Whenever you pick up your pet, avoid holding it under your arm like a baby, as this movement puts strain on your spine. It's also important to avoid lifting your four-legged friend with two points of support, with one arm under their front paws and the other arm under their hind paws, horizontally. Also, prevent your pet from jumping on your legs asking to be held.
Pet Med – Are there accessories that help provide more comfort and safety to pets with these conditions?
Patrick Infante – Yes, there is a wide variety of product models that help in everyday life, from elevated feeders for animals with neck pain and problems in their front limbs, stairs or ramps for getting on and off furniture, and beds with various densities and textures of foam that help with pet comfort.
Pet Med – How do you know when it's time to use these resources?
Patrick Infante – It is often recommended to use these resources from puppyhood, especially for breeds predisposed to orthopedic problems, as it is easier to condition them to use them from a young age than when they are older. In the case of the famous dachshund, which can suffer from herniated discs, the ramp is an ally in the animal's daily comfort.
Pet Med – In terms of routine, how should walks, playtime, and physical exercise be managed to avoid worsening the condition?
Patrick Infante – When a patient is diagnosed with any condition that leads to pain or joint problems, rest is necessary initially, gradually returning to their routine. If the pet is not used to walks, it won't start walking again after experiencing problems; therefore, each individual's limits must be respected. Exercise is important to prevent atrophy or loss of muscle mass. However, high-impact games, playing fetch, jumping, and tug-of-war should be avoided. Pay attention to leashes and collars to prevent the pet from pulling or exerting more effort during walks, and be careful of any tugs or pulls.
Pet Med – How do diet and weight control also directly influence these cases?
Patrick Infante – Today we know that excess weight damages the joints and the accumulation of adipose tissue worsens inflammatory reactions. The diet should be followed according to the veterinarian's guidance, considering the animal's size and life stage. Supplementation with nutrients such as collagen, chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega fatty acids are excellent allies for pets. In my daily practice, I see many patients with pain who are overweight or obese. Often, the owner has difficulty realizing that the animal is overweight.
Pet Med – How can veterinary physiotherapy, such as the use of aquatic treadmills, laser therapy, or acupuncture, contribute to improving mobility and reducing pain?
Patrick Infante – Integrative medicine, along with traditional treatment, accelerates the patient's recovery process, reducing neurological pain, inflammation, and restoring atrophied muscles. The underwater treadmill reduces impact on the joints; the 28-degree water increases viscosity, generating more resistance and causing the dog to exert more effort, in addition to providing a pleasant sensation. Laser therapy promotes vasodilation, improving circulation in the treated area, reducing inflammation, and combating free radicals, among other benefits. Acupuncture, an ancient technique, involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the central nervous system and release natural analgesic substances, such as endorphins, as well as reducing inflammation and promoting muscle relaxation. Other treatments, such as electrotherapy, magnetotherapy, and kinesiotherapy, all with excellent effects, should only be performed by qualified professionals and with the recommendation of a veterinarian.
Pet Med – What is the role of the family in the daily care of pets with these limitations? Patrick Infante – All family members should participate, starting with care when they arrive home, avoiding exciting the pet so that it doesn't slip, jump, or run in circles. Massage and stretching help relax the muscles, and the veterinarian can provide homework so that they can do exercises at home.
Pet Med – Regarding prevention: what measures can families take from an early age to avoid joint or spinal problems, especially in predisposed breeds?
Patrick Infante – Before adopting or acquiring a purebred animal, research the breed and look for any variations it may have. Avoid slippery floors, jumping, high-impact play, and using ramps or stairs to climb on furniture. It's important to remember that even if the animal is of good lineage and the owner takes all these precautions, the pet will grow old and may eventually develop arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other age-related diseases.
Pet Med – The Pet Med cervical collar can be used in cases of pain or spinal injuries. What are the benefits of this accessory for the pet's comfort and mobility during treatment?
Patrick Infante – The collar, like other orthotics, helps the patient recover from injuries in the cervical region by limiting movement and providing support so that the body can recover from the injury. It should always be used as directed and under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Pet Med – Absorbent protectors and diaper protectors are recommended for pets with incontinence or reduced mobility. How do these accessories help in the daily lives of these animals?
Patrick Infante – The protectors provide more comfort and well-being to the patient, preventing them from getting wet or developing diaper rash. Animals with spinal or senile injuries may develop incontinence, therefore, the use of absorbent and diaper protectors also helps in handling the pet by its family members.
Pet Med – Finally, in what situations can the combined use of these accessories – collar, diaper, and absorbent protector – make a difference in the recovery and well-being of pets with osteoarthritis, hernias, or post-surgery, for example?
Patrick Infante – In cases of post-operative patients recovering from herniated discs, where absolute rest is necessary and patients are generally incontinent, the use of absorbent pads and diapers is necessary to prevent the patient from getting wet during recovery and to prevent diaper rash or even a wound or pressure sore. The clothing helps protect the stitches, preventing the patient from licking them or soiling the scar.
It is always important to seek guidance from a veterinarian, as a multidisciplinary treatment approach is often necessary, involving an orthopedist, neurologist, and physiatrist.
Integrative medicine complements conventional treatments.
Your pet deserves all the comfort and care, especially when facing spinal or joint problems. With the right adaptations and the support of accessories designed with well-being in mind, it's possible to transform their routine and ensure a better quality of life!
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