As the chill of winter settles over Rome, your pet might start showing signs of discomfort, like moving a little slower in the morning, hesitating before jumping up, or favoring certain limbs. Pets with arthritis often feel stiffer and more sore during colder months. Our veterinary team at Mount Berry Animal Hospital wants your arthritic pet to feel as comfortable as possible, no matter the weather. With the right care, including advanced options like laser therapy, we can help ease their pain during the winter months.
Arthritis Worsens For Many Pets in Winter
Cold weather can tighten muscles and stiffen joints, making everyday movements more painful for pets with arthritis (such as osteoarthritis). Lower temperatures may also decrease blood flow to affected areas, amplifying discomfort. You might notice:
- Limping or favoring a leg after resting
- Slower movements, especially in the morning
- Reluctance to go outside or use stairs
- Irritability when touched in certain areas
These can all be signs that your pet’s joints are feeling the effects of the season.
Ways to Help Your Arthritic Pet This Winter
- Keep Them Warm and Cozy: Temperature control can make a big difference. Offer padded bedding in an area free of any drafts, and consider adding an extra blanket. Keep walks short on especially cold days, and dry your pet thoroughly if they get wet.
- Stay on Top of Gentle Exercise: Movement is a part of keeping your pet’s joints lubricated and muscles strong. Short, frequent play sessions or easy walks are better than long outings. Avoid icy or slippery paths that could lead to falls or injuries.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra pounds put extra pressure on aching joints for pets with arthritis. If your pet needs to lose weight, talk to a veterinarian about a diet plan that keeps your pet at an ideal weight without sacrificing nutrition.
- Use Supportive Supplements: Joint supplements can be a big help for certain arthritic pets. A vet can let you know whether supplements are right for your pet, and recommend trusted products for cats or dogs with arthritis.
Laser Therapy as a Treatment for Arthritis in Pets
One of the treatments that we use for many arthritic pets at Mount Berry Animal Hospital is laser therapy, a drug-free arthritis treatment that reduces inflammation, promotes circulation, and eases pain in pets with chronic conditions like arthritis. Laser therapy can:
- Improve mobility and flexibility
- Decrease joint swelling
- Provide relief without medication side effects
- Be used alongside other treatments or supplements
Most pets enjoy the sessions, and many pet owners notice visible improvements in comfort after just one or two laser treatments.
Treating Pets with Arthritis in Rome, GA
Winter can be tough on pets with arthritis, but it doesn’t have to mean months of discomfort. Your pet can stay comfortable with proactive care, supportive routines, and innovative treatments like laser therapy. Mount Berry Animal Hospital treats pets with arthritis in Rome, including dogs and cats from Bartow County and Polk County in Georgia. If your pet is showing signs of joint pain this winter, contact us for treatment at Mount Berry Animal Hospital.
