Has your dog or cat been diagnosed with joint disease? Have you seen your older dog or cat slowing down and suspect they might be experiencing joint pain? Or do you have a brand-new puppy and have heard that their breed makes them more likely to develop joint disease? If so, understanding what joint disease is and what can be done about it is crucial.
How Common is Degenerative Joint Disease?
If your pet is not currently suffering from degenerative joint disease, then you may be wondering if it is really something you should be worried about. The answer is yes—absolutely!
It is estimated that degenerative joint disease (DJD) affects about 20% of dogs over the age of one (that’s 1 in every 5 dogs), increasing to around 80% (4 in every 5 dogs) in dogs over the age of 8. In cats, approximately 25% of all ages are estimated to be affected, with up to 90% of cats over the age of 12 showing evidence of DJD.
What is Degenerative Joint Disease?
To understand DJD, let’s have a quick look at what a joint is made up of.
At a basic level, a joint is made up of two (or more) bones that meet together. The ends of the bones are covered with a smooth layer of cartilage called articular cartilage, which cushions the joint and allows it to move smoothly (bone-on-bone movement is rough and painful!). Within the joint is a gel-like fluid called synovial fluid, which helps lubricate the joint, reduces friction, nourishes the cartilage, and provides additional cushioning
In a healthy joint, there is a constant process of cartilage renewal—a balance between cartilage being broken down and cartilage being rebuilt. In an unhealthy joint, this process becomes unbalanced, and cartilage breaks down faster than the body can repair it.
As cartilage breaks down, the cartilage layers become thinner, providing less cushioning for the joint. Eventually, the bone beneath the cartilage becomes exposed, and bone starts to rub against bone. This process is accompanied by inflammation within the joint, which causes pain and swelling.
This condition is known as degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthritis (OA).
What Are the Symptoms of DJD?
Symptoms depend on the severity of the disease. While some symptoms may be obvious, others may be more subtle, and pet parents often mistake these signs for normal ageing or simply slowing down with age.
- Limping or lameness
- Stiffness (especially after rest)
- Swelling of the joints
- Reluctance, hesitation, or difficulty when jumping (e.g. onto the couch or into the car)
- Reluctance or hesitation to go up or down stairs
- Licking or biting at the joints
- Slowing down on walks
- Stretching or playing less than usual
- Taking more time to stand up
- Difficulty getting comfortable when lying down
- Muscle loss around the affected limb(s)
- Reduced willingness to chase toys or play
- Behavioural changes (particularly in cats)
Many of these symptoms may be worse in colder weather or after resting. In puppies and other highly energetic dogs, some of these signs may be hidden, as their desire to run and play may outweigh the pain. Cats are very good at hiding signs of pain, so symptoms can often be very subtle.
If you are unsure whether your pet may be struggling with DJD, ask your vet to perform a thorough examination. This may include a physical examination and/or X-rays if needed.
What Causes DJD?
There are many different causes and contributing factors when it comes to the development of DJD.
- Ageing (normal wear and tear)
- Genetics (certain breeds are more prone)
- Congenital (born-with) joint malformations (e.g. hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, or patella luxation)
- Developmental abnormalities (e.g. in large- and giant-breed puppies that are not fed an appropriate diet while growing)
- Nutritional imbalances during growth (particularly in large- and giant-breed puppies)
- Excessive weight on the joints (overweight pets, as well as giant-breed dogs due to their size)
- Injury or trauma
- Excessive impact on the joints (e.g. in some sporting or other highly active dogs)
- Joint infections
- Immune-mediated joint disease
Can DJD Be Cured?
Once DJD has started, it cannot be cured. However, there are several things that you can do to slow the progression (reduce the rate at which the condition worsens) and decrease the symptoms (pain and discomfort).
Early diagnosis and treatment are important, as intervention is often more effective before severe joint damage has occurred.
Can it be prevented?
In some cases, yes. Maintaining a healthy body weight, feeding an appropriate diet (particularly during growth), preventing joint injuries where possible, and supporting overall joint health may reduce the risk of DJD or delay its onset in some animals. However, in many cases—particularly where genetics or age are major contributing factors—DJD cannot be completely prevented. Even so, taking these steps can help delay its onset and slow its progression.
How is DJD Managed and Treated?
For more information on the management and treatment of DJD, and what you can do to help your pet, read Part 2: Managing DJD for a Happier, More Comfortable Life.
Key Takeaways
- DJD is one of the most common diseases affecting older dogs and cats.
- It cannot be cured, but it can be managed successfully.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce pain and slow disease progression.
- Maintaining a healthy body weight and feeding an appropriate diet is one of the most effective ways to protect your pet’s joints.
- If you notice signs of stiffness, limping, or reduced activity, speak to your veterinarian.