Metacam® Oral Suspension is the most popular medicine used by vets to treat arthritis in Cats & Dogs. It is a `non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug` (NSAID) recommended by vets for the treatment of arthritis in both dogs and cats.

It works by relieving pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Therefore, it plays a vital role in improving quality and enjoyment of life of pets with arthritis.

Most petss love the honey flavoured Metacam® Oral Suspension which can be added to food or given directly, making it very easy to give.

Metacam® is also available as an injection, and can be used around the time of surgery to help manage the associated pain. Sometimes your vet will also dispense a bottle of the Metacam Oral Suspension after surgery to help keep your pet as comfortable as possible during the recovery period.

Arthritis & your cat

As you know, cats are natural athletes, but over the years, this high level of activity can take its toll. It may mean that your cat is suffering from wear and tear on his/her joints as a consequence.

According to veterinary experts, many older cats suffer from arthritis. Vets consider all cats over the age of eight to be older, and cats should have a veterinary check up for signs of arthritis at this time. In cats, the hips and elbows are most commonly affected joints.

Diagnosis

Because cats are relatively small and very agile they can hide or cover up mobility difficulties caused by arthritis. Unlike dogs, cats with arthritis don’t generally limp.

Instead, cats affected are more likely to show subtle changes in their lifestyle or behaviour. Because you know your cat best you are well placed to keep an eye out for the signs of this potentially painful condition.

If you have noticed any of the following changes or behaviours in your cat you should consult your vet or vet nurse for advice and consider arranging a check up for your cat.

1. Have you noticed your cat hesitating, or being more reluctant to jump up or down?

• onto your lap
• the furniture
• through a cat flap

2. Have you noticed your cat slowing down?

• Sleeping more – especially in one place
• Stiffening up
• Getting a bit creaky

3. Have you noticed a deterioration in your cat’s appearance?

• Matted or scruffy coat

. Have you noticed any change in your cat’s attitude or daily routine?

• Less tolerant around people
• More withdrawn

Arthritis & your dog

Just as in humans, arthritis is a condition that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints.

There are several causes; sometimes arthritis may be a result of an old injury (for instance a road traffic accident), or the joint may become damaged simply through wear and tear because of old age.

In fact, many older dogs suffer from arthritis, and vets consider all dogs over the age of seven to be older.

In dogs, the most commonly affected joints are the knees, elbows, hips and backbone.

Diagnosis

Although arthritis is usually associated with pain and stiffness in the joints, it is often only after the pain has been relieved, and your dog has renewed mobility, that you may come to realise just how stiff he/she had become.

If you have noticed any of the changes below in your dog, you should consult your vet or vet nurse for advice and consider arranging a check up.

1. Have you noticed a reduction in you dog’s mobility?

• Difficulty in jumping into car/chair or climbing stairs
• Limping or stiffness
• Difficulty in getting up

2. Have you noticed a reduction in your dog’s activity?

• Reluctance to walk or play
• Sleeping/resting more, especially in one place
• Lethargy

3. Have you noticed changes in grooming habits?

• Unusual licking sometimes leading to bald areas
• Chewing at joints

4. Have there been any changes in your dog’s temperament?

• Less tolerant towards children and/or other dogs
• Reduced interaction with you/family
• Increased anxiety/clinginess