Good joint health is important for a long and happy life in cats and dogs.
Introduction to joint health
Good joint health is essential for the mental and physical wellbeing of dogs and cats.
Like humans, when our pets grow older, the chances of developing arthritis and other degenerative joint-related issues increases.
Research indicates that 20% of all dogs will suffer from a form of arthritis in their lifetime, one of the most common health issues treated by veterinarians, but some breeds can be more susceptible than others.
Causes of decline in joint health in cats and dogs
Dogs and cats are unique, so while there are some common causes of joint issues, there is no limit to the potential triggers.
Some examples of common joint issue triggers are:
- Injuries
- Arthritis
- Obesity
- Developmental defects that alter the shape or stability of a joint
- Genetic predisposition: some breeds of dogs, such as Labradors, Golden retrievers, German shepherds and Rottweilers, are more prone to joint issues than others
Ways to maintain joint health
Regular monitoring
Regularly monitoring your pet’s ability to run, jump and walk will help to spot any joint problem early on so you can take action to stop the issue worsening.
Responsible exercise
Toy throwing, whilst lots of fun, can cause joint strain if done too often and for too long. Limit toy throwing to two 20-minute sessions. When you’re not playing with the toy, hide it so your dog or cat doesn’t obsess over its whereabouts.
Keep dogs and cats at healthy weight
Obesity puts additional strain on the joints, so ensure your pet is kept at a healthy weight by maintaining an active lifestyle and eating nutritious foods.
If you’re unsure whether your pet is overweight, visit your local vets – most offer free weight checks and can issue advice on weight loss.
Routine veterinary care
Regularly seeing a vet is a mark of responsible pet ownership, and is even more important as your pet ages. Frequent health checks will help your vet identify not only joint issues from developing, but wider health issues too.
What kind of supplements are there?
Sometimes, the joints may need some additional support to maintain their flexibility. By reducing inflammation, joint supplements help to lessen the intensity of troublesome symptoms, such as stiffness, mobility issues, tenderness and discomfort.
The most common ingredients in supplements to support joint health in dogs and cats are glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3. These ingredients are some of the most well-known and clinically tested supplements available to maintain joint health in pets.
What are the benefits of these ingredients?
Glucosamine is an amino sugar which is naturally produced by dogs, but over time, natural production becomes insufficient at preventing joint damage, so supplementation is often necessary in senior pets.
Chondroitin promotes joint health by inhibiting the enzymes that break down cartilage and joint fluid. Glucosamine and chondroitin both work to lubricate the joints by promoting water retention.
On the other hand, omega-3 supplements, focus primarily on reducing inflammation, which lessens a dog’s risk for joint problems.
When taken as a supplement together, glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 cover the whole range of essential ingredients needed to prevent joint issues, while also relieving symptoms in pets with already developed joint issues like arthritis.
Why choose Bob Martin supplements?
Bob Martin Flexible Joints Tablets are specifically formulated to help maintain pain-free, supple and mobile joints. The supplements also provide slow-release energy, helping to support healthy skin, bright eyes and strong teeth and bones. A good all-rounder!
Available as tablets or an oil, this concentrated formula also maintains a healthy heart and promotes good circulation for old or young cats and dogs.
Containing natural fish oils that are rich in vitamins and polyunsaturates, it is also an easy way to improve your pet’s diet, while helping to overcome common health problems.
