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#1: Osteoarthritis in pets

Age is not a disease, but your pet’s organs and body may begin to show signs of wear and tear as they approach their grey muzzle years. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint and bone condition that is common in middle-aged and senior pets. However, any pet may develop osteoarthritis or degenerative joint problems. Pets who previously have experienced dislocated joints, or bone, ligament, or tendon trauma have an increased risk for osteoarthritis. In fact, more than 20% of dogs may experience joint problems in their life and more than 40% of cats may suffer from degenerative joint disease. Like human joints, your pet’s joints are protected by cartilage which provides a smooth surface for their bones to glide over during movement. Erosion of the cartilage over time can lead to chronic inflammation and pain. Recognizing osteoarthritis signs in pets may be challenging because they may mimic other disease signs or problems. Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if they show the following:

• Limping
• Hunched posture
• Urinating or defecating outside of the litter box in cats
• Muscle atrophy
• Difficulty moving, getting up, or lying down
• Irritability when touched or picked up

#2: Intervertebral disc disease in pets

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) occurs when the cushioning disc between the spinal column bones, or vertebrae, bulges or slips out of its normal location. Bulging discs can lead to neuropathic pain in pets because of pressure or damage to the surrounding nerves. IVDD also can cause paralysis in severe cases and requires immediate veterinary care. Additionally, activities such as running or jumping can cause a ruptured disc. Small breed dogs such as dachshunds have an increased risk of IVDD because of their body shape, but pets of any breed can experience the disease, especially those who are obese. Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if they have any of the following IVDD signs:

• Abnormal walking or knuckling over of the paws 
• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
• Weakness in the rear limbs 
• Vocalization
• Anxious behavior
• Tense muscles or hunched posture
• Decreased appetite
• Difficulty posturing to eliminate

#3: Pancreatitis in pets

It can be hard to resist your pet’s drooling stares at your dinner plate, and it may be tempting to give them the last bite of steak. However, feeding your pet fatty, rich treats can lead to pancreatitis. The painful, potentially deadly inflammatory condition is often caused by the sudden release of pancreatic digestive enzymes. Pancreatitis is more common in dogs, but cats also can be affected. Pets who have pancreatitis are at risk for dehydration and organ damage and should receive immediate veterinary care. Pancreatitis severity and signs are variable and pets with mild signs may not require hospitalization. Signs of pancreatitis may include:

• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea 
• Fever
• Abdominal pain

#4: Periodontal disease in pets

Many pet owners dislike their pet’s smelly “dog breath” and may mistake the odor as normal. However, bad breath is often the first clue that your pet is suffering from painful periodontal disease. Dental disease is a common problem in pets, and more than 80% of dogs and cats will have dental problems by the time they are 3 years old. Dental disease is a progressive condition and over time dangerous oral bacteria can lead to loose teeth, gum inflammation, or painful tooth abscesses which may require surgery. Oral bacteria also can travel through the bloodstream and cause life-threatening kidney, liver, or heart infections. Pets who have dental disease often will continue to eat, which can make it challenging for pet owners to recognize their pet is in pain. Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if they have bad breath or exhibit the following signs:

• Excessive drooling
• Decreased appetite
• Swollen or red gums
• Irritability or increased hiding in cats
• Abnormal or difficulty chewing
• Dropping food from the mouth while eating
• Refusal or reluctance to take hard treats
• Swelling around the mouth
• Nasal discharge
• Bleeding from the mouth or blood on chew toys
• Pain when touching the mouth or face

#5: Traumatic injuries in pets 

Traumatic injuries in pets can range from a mild skin abrasion to a more severe injury such as a broken leg. Pets who have suffered a severe trauma, such as being struck by a car or falling from any height, often have multiple injuries, including internal injuries that may not be immediately obvious. Do not wait to bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if they have experienced any trauma, even if they are not showing obvious signs of pain. Common trauma signs may include:

• Limping or inability to walk or stand up on all four legs
• Puncture wounds from another animal
• Swelling on any part of the body
• Active bleeding anywhere that does not stop after five minutes
• Bleeding from the mouth, nose, ears, or rectum, or when urinating
• Exposed tissue, bones, or muscles
• Yelping, meowing, or barking when touched or moved

Call your family veterinarian if you suspect your pet has been injured or is experiencing any of the conditions described here. However, if they are showing signs of pain after hours, call Animal Emergency Care. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/centers/nutrition/evr_multi_how-to-recognize-arthritis-signs-in-pets

https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/Pancreatitis-in-Pets

https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_intervertebral_disc_disease

https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/05-pet-health-resources/mobilitymatters.pdf

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/the-exocrine-pancreas/pancreatitis-in-dogs-and-cats

The post 5 Common Painful Conditions in Pets appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Acute pain in pets

No pet owner wants their furry pal to experience pain. At the same time, pain is important and serves as an alert to protect an injured area and prevent further injury. Acute pain is a recent, noticeable response to something that happens suddenly, such as a cut paw during a run at the park or burned whiskers from a curious nose investigating a sizzling steak. Other common causes of acute pain include trauma, bruising, crushing injuries, cuts, or other body injuries. Postsurgical or procedural pain also is considered acute. Acute pain is often sharp, throbbing, or aching and usually improves within three days after the traumatic event or surgery. However, without treatment, acute pain can become chronic. Common signs of acute pain may include:

• Behavior changes such as hiding or resisting handling
• Limping 
• Guarding a body part such as paw or tail
• Licking, biting, or rubbing the affected area

#2: Chronic pain in pets

Chronic or persistent pain can be stressful to pets and decreases their overall quality of life and wellness. Chronic pain is typically a dull, ongoing pain. It does not serve a protective purpose, unlike acute pain. Recognizing chronic pain can be tricky for pet owners because subtle signs may be similar to normal age-related changes like slowing down or sleeping more. Additionally, many pets who experience chronic pain will continue to participate in normal activities such as eating or playing. But if your pet has chronic, painful dental disease, it may take them longer to finish a meal or they may resist hard food treats and continue to eat canned food. Osteoarthritis, or joint disease, is a common source of chronic pain for pets and more than 20% of dogs are affected. Pets with this type of pain may have changes in posture or stiff limbs after sleeping or napping. Other chronic pain signs may include:

• Decreased appetite
• Changes in breathing patterns or increased panting when at rest
• Changes in movement or posture
• Decreased interest in long walks or games of fetch
• Behavior changes such as irritability 

#3: Cancer pain in pets 

Cancer pain can be acute and chronic. New fast-growing masses are considered acutely painful because they can invade surrounding tissues, nerves, or bones. A primary bone tumor is the most common pain-causing cancer, but any type of tumor can be associated with pain. Acute pain also may be caused by cancer surgery or treatments such as radiation therapy. As the cancer progresses, your pet could experience chronic pain from long-term effects of the disease like tissue inflammation or secondary infections. It can be challenging for pet owners to recognize cancer signs because the tumor may not be visible. Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if they show the following signs which could be associated with cancer pain:

• Decreased appetite
• Lethargy
• Weight loss 
• Wounds that do not heal
• Limping that occurs without an injury 
• Abdominal swelling
• Swollen joints
• Abnormal bleeding

#4: Neuropathic pain in pets

Neuropathic pain can occur from an injury or disease that affects a pet’s nerves or nerve function within the spinal cord. Nerve damage or inflammation often results in a tingling sensation that is difficult to diagnose in pets because they cannot communicate a pins-and-needles sensation in their limbs. Neuropathic pain is often chronic and associated with mobility problems, similar to pets who have osteoarthritis. Common signs of neuropathic pain may include:

• Limping or dragging of limbs
• Shaking or twitching skin
• Muscle atrophy
• Inappropriate elimination 
• Decreased appetite
• Vocalization

Call your family veterinarian if you suspect your pet is in pain. If your pet is showing signs of pain after hours, call Animal Emergency Care. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/pain-assessment-and-management/recognition-and-assessment-of-pain-in-animals

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/special-pet-topics/pain-management/types-of-pain

https://www.zoetispetcare.com/blog/article/chronic-acute-pain-dogs

https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_neuropathic_pain

https://www.dvm360.com/view/understanding-and-recognizing-cancer-pain-dogs-and-cats

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/special-pet-topics/cancer-and-tumors/caring-for-a-pet-with-cancer

The post Understanding 4 Types of Pain in Your Pet  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Behavior changes in your pet

Like people, pets have unique personalities that make them special. Many also have distinct behaviors such as barking at the mailman or whining when a pesky squirrel runs through the yard. However, if your dog starts to ignore the mail truck or delivery person or your grumpy cat has suddenly become a purring cuddle companion, it may be an indication they are in pain. Sudden behavior changes may be a clue they are experiencing discomfort. Pets are creatures of habit, and subtle changes are often the first clue something is wrong. Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if you notice the following behavior changes:

• Growling, hissing, or biting in a usually calm or docile pet
• Calm, quiet behavior in a pet who is usually aggressive or unfriendly 
• Unusual vocalization including howling, whining, whimpering, or yelping 
• Excessive hiding
• Avoiding being touched, held, or picked up 
• Seeking more affection than usual or exhibiting needy behavior 

#2: Activity level changes in your pet

Many pet owners can set a timer based on their pet’s playtime, walking, and park visit schedules. Naptime is also an important activity for many pets, especially cats. Changes in your pet’s desire to play or reluctance to get up after a long nap may be an indication they are in pain. Joint diseases such as arthritis can make it difficult for pets to climb stairs or chase after their favorite toy. Other activity changes that may indicate your pet is in pain include: 

• Trembling or excessive circling before attempting to lie down
• Difficulty getting up or lying down
• Reluctance to move, run, or play
• Restlessness

#3: Daily habit changes in your pet 

Most pets eat the same amount of food and snacks every day and drink a consistent amount of water. That could change with warmer weather or if their activity level increases. However, if there have been no recent changes in your pet’s planned activities or environment, then habit changes such as eating one cup of food when they normally eat two cups daily could be a clue they are in pain. A pet’s decreased or absent appetite may be an indication of an underlying medical problem such as gastrointestinal distress or a stomachache. Dental disease also can cause a hungry pet to reduce their food or water intake because of painful, infected teeth. Other habit changes that may indicate pain include:

• Inappropriate urination in the house or increased litter box visits
• Changes in sleeping habits such as sleeping during times when they are usually active
• Decreased desire to socialize with household members
• Ignoring treats or meal times 
• Dropping food from the mouth while eating

#4: Grooming changes in your pet  

Your pet’s shiny coat, healthy fur, and clear skin are good indicators of their overall health and wellness. Pets, especially cats, regularly groom themselves to keep clean and distribute their natural skin oils. However, excessive grooming that leads to self-mutilation or injury is an indication they may be experiencing pain. Pets who excessively lick, bite, or scratch their skin may have a painful skin infection or an injury.  Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if you notice changes in their grooming habits.

#5: Facial expression changes in your pet  

Your dog’s wagging tail and slobbery tongue are some of the many ways they show their love and affection. In some cases, it may seem that your dog is smiling when they see you approach the cookie jar for a much-deserved treat. Pets, like people, use their faces to communicate, and subtle changes in facial expression such as a grimace or closed-mouth smile may indicate they are nauseous or in pain. Decoding your cat’s facial expressions is often challenging because most cats have mastered the ability to hide signs of pain. Fortunately, the feline grimace scale is available to help pet owners interpret their cat’s expressions. Expressions that may indicate pain include:

• Glazed or sleeping eyes
• Enlarged pupils
• Flattened ears
• Appearing to stare off into space
• Excessive panting when at rest

Call your family veterinarian if you suspect your pet is experiencing pain. If your pet is showing signs of pain after hours, call Animal Emergency Care. #AECprevents

Source:

https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/pain-management/painmanagement_dogs_web.pdf

The post Tell Me Where It Hurts: 5 Signs Your Pet May Be in Pain appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

Anti-inflammatory medications and pets 

Pets who have had surgery or a traumatic injury such as a broken leg, or who have been diagnosed with chronic osteoarthritis may be prescribed a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID). This group of medications is used to reduce inflammation, pain, or fever and may be given by injection or an oral formulation. NSAIDS are similar to human OTC medications like aspirin. However, never give any human medications to your pet without direction from your veterinarian. Cats are sensitive to NSAIDs, especially acetaminophen, which can be deadly. Additionally, it is vital to follow all medication instructions because an NSAID overdose can lead to gastric ulcers or organ failure which can be life-threatening without treatment. Bring your pet in for immediate care if they show signs of NSAID toxicity, which may include:

• Vomiting which may contain blood
• Diarrhea 
• Decreased appetite

Steroid medications and pets

Steroid medications such as prednisone are used to reduce inflammation and are often prescribed short-term with a tapering dose. This group of medications is commonly used for allergic reactions such as swelling from a bee sting. However, some steroid medications may be prescribed for other painful inflammatory conditions, including back pain or cancer-associated pain. Steroids also may be used in some cancer therapies because of their immunosuppressive properties in high doses. Steroids typically have more side effects than NSAIDs, and the two are never prescribed together. Before a steroid can be prescribed, your pet will require a veterinary examination and blood tests to ensure their organs can properly metabolize the medication. Side effects, which will subside once the medication course is completed, may include increased hunger, thirst, urination, and panting.

Narcotic medications and pets

Opioid medications are a large class of narcotic drugs that are naturally and synthetically derived from the opium poppy. Opioid medications such as butorphanol or hydrocodone may be prescribed short-term for your pet to alleviate acute pain or coughing, or to provide mild sedation before a medical procedure. In most cases, your veterinarian will not prescribe these medications for long-term use because they are closely regulated by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and have a high potential for dependence or abuse by humans. Opioid medications are primarily administered when your pet is hospitalized. This allows your pet to be monitored for any adverse effects and decreases the chances the medication could be ingested accidentally by a child or other pet in the household. Generally, opioid side effects are minimal for pets and may include sedation or an upset stomach. However, giving your pet the wrong dose or an extra dose can cause a low heart rate, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and death in some cases.

Muscle relaxant and nerve pain medications in pets

Pets who are experiencing back pain or other chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis may be suffering from muscle spasms from inflamed nerves. Muscle relaxants like methocarbamol are commonly prescribed to alleviate discomfort in pets with back or disc disease and in cats with bladder spasms from urinary tract disease.

It is not uncommon for pets with nerve pain or chronic arthritis pain to be prescribed gabapentin in conjunction with other anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants. Most nerve pain medications and muscle relaxants have minimal side effects, but they may cause your pet to become drowsy.

Pet pain medication safety

Bring your pet in for a veterinary examination if they are experiencing any pain to ensure they quickly receive relief. Like people, pets may react to medications differently and it is critical to ensure they can properly metabolize any medication. Additionally, pet owners must carefully store their pet’s prescriptions because many are flavored and your pet may accidentally take an extra dose. Other pet medication safety tips include:

• Never share your pet’s prescription with another pet or human.
• Store pet medications out of the reach of paws and little hands. 
• Bring your pet in for immediate care if they show any unexpected medication side effects. 
• Never give your pet an expired medication. 
• Never give your pet OTC human medications unless directed by your veterinarian.
• Carefully read your pet’s prescription instructions and possible side effects.

Call your family veterinarian if you have any questions about treating your pet’s pain. If your pet is experiencing pain after hours, call Animal Emergency Care. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://vetmed.illinois.edu/pet_column/guide-pain-management-pets

https://ivapm.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/2015_aaha_aafp_pain_management_guidelines_for_dogs_and_cats-03.10.17.pdf

https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/product-safety-information/veterinary-non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-nsaids

https://www.dvm360.com/view/wvc-opioids-in-veterinary-medicine-panacea-and-pandemonium

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952756

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