Ensuring that pets with arthritis maintain a nutritious diet is as crucial as it is for humans to eat healthily. A well-balanced diet can significantly impact the overall well-being and mobility of arthritic pets. This article delves into the different categories of pet food, highlighting the importance of choosing the right type for pets with arthritis, and offers guidance on how to provide them with the best possible nutrition.
Pet foods are commonly divided into three categories: generic, premium, and natural. Each category appeals to pet owners for various reasons, including convenience and price. However, when it comes to nutrition, especially for pets with arthritis, not all pet foods are created equal.
Generic pet foods are the least expensive option and are often made with the lowest quality ingredients. These products may include animal and plant by-products, artificial preservatives, and additives. The grains used in these foods are typically over-processed or unfit for human consumption. Additionally, the animal parts included in these foods are often the ones that humans would not consider eating. The manufacturing standards for pet foods are not as stringent as those for human foods, allowing pet food companies to use ingredients that wouldn't make the cut for human products.
Moving up the price scale, premium and natural pet foods offer better quality. Premium brands are widely available, including at veterinary clinics, but they don't always contain the finest ingredients. Natural pet foods are generally the best choice, as they use natural preservatives and avoid artificial flavors and colors. However, the higher quality comes with a higher price tag, which may not be feasible for all budgets.
When selecting food for a pet with arthritis, it's essential to look beyond the price. A low-cost, 40-pound bag of dog food might seem like a bargain, but it's unlikely to meet the nutritional needs of an arthritic pet. Reading labels carefully can provide insight into the quality of the ingredients.
One cost-effective strategy is to incorporate raw vegetables into your pet's diet. This can provide essential nutrients without breaking the bank. It's important to introduce vegetables gradually and in moderation to ensure your pet adjusts well to the new diet.
While high-quality food is vital, supplements like liquid glucosamine can also play a role in managing arthritis in pets. However, supplements should complement a balanced diet and regular exercise, not replace them.
Recent studies have shown that overweight pets are more likely to develop arthritis. A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that weight loss in overweight dogs with arthritis significantly improved their mobility (source). This underscores the importance of a nutritious diet in managing arthritis.
Certain nutrients are particularly beneficial for pets with arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin are also commonly recommended for their role in supporting joint health.
Providing a nutritious diet for pets with arthritis is essential for their health and mobility. While budget constraints are a reality for many pet owners, it's important to prioritize quality when selecting pet food. By understanding the different categories of pet food and incorporating healthy supplements and vegetables, pet owners can help their arthritic pets lead more comfortable lives.
More Precautions and Approaches to Using NSAIDs
As our readers know, I am dead set against the use of NSAIDs. Over the counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are now being implicated in possible cardiac complications just as Vioxx and Celebrex have been. Of course, Bextra is on that list too.
Our Shoulders Do Plenty and That is the Problem
It's funny, but before I got involved in the arthritis business after my own injuries, I used to think that our knees were the easiest joint to injure. Of course, I now know that our knees carry about four times our body weight so certainly they are at risk. However, think about the role your shoulders play in your life.
Arthritis-Fighting Drugs: The Ulcer Connection
If you read these chronicles, you know that I have constantly warned about the dangers of using NSAID's to tackle arthritis pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause serious problems and ulcers are one of them. When we talk about NSAID's, we can include products like aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Motrin and many more. The newer group of NSAID's is also implicated. I am talking about Vioxx, Celebrex and Bextra. The risk factor for ulcer complications is lower with the last group of prescription drugs but as most of you know, Vioxx was recently pulled from the market because of possible cardiac implications. Of course, the drug companies and the government are taking a closer look at the other two drugs in that category.
