Chronic Pain in Pets

Image of a dog in a wheelchair.

It's hard to see your pet in pain day after day, particularly if your formerly energetic friend has now become lethargic and withdrawn due to a health condition or disease. Unfortunately, pets suffer from chronic pain just like people do. Learning about types of chronic pain and treatments can help you keep your pet more comfortable.

Causes of Chronic Pain

Although chronic pain most often affects older pets, it can occur at any age. A variety of conditions and diseases can cause chronic pain, including:

  • Arthritis, particularly if your pet has entered its senior years
  • Cancer
  • Degenerative spinal diseases
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Inflammatory joint disease, such as Lyme disease and rheumatoid arthritis

How Your Pet's Veterinarian Can Help

If you notice a change in your pet's behavior or condition, a visit to the veterinarian is a good idea. Your pet's doctor will perform a complete examination and may recommend one or more tests, such as X-rays or blood tests, to determine the source of your furry friend's pain. Based on the results of the examination and tests, the veterinarian will recommend a course of treatment, which may include prescription medications, physical therapy or surgery. Several types of prescription medications can be helpful if your pet suffers from chronic pain, including:

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
  • Steroids
  • Opioids, including fentanyl and morphine
  • Chemotherapy drugs
  • Antidepressants (These drugs not only treat depression, but can also reduce pain)
  • Lidocaine and other local anesthetics
  • Gabapentin, a seizure medication that is also helpful in treating nerve pain

Although many of the same drugs that help you feel better can also help animals, do not give your pet any medication without checking with a veterinarian first. Some medications that are safe for humans are toxic when taken by animals.

How You Can Help

After diagnosing your pet, his or her veterinarian will recommend things you can do to make your pet more comfortable. These may include:

  • Helping your pet lose weight. Extra pounds can stress the joints and make the symptoms of arthritis, hip dysplasia or other joint conditions worse. Your pet's veterinarian can provide suggestions about feeding amounts and special foods that can make losing weight easier.
  • Making exercise a priority. Exercise will not only help your pet lose weight but can also reduce pain caused by arthritis. Low-impact exercises, such as walking and swimming, are best. Exercise strengthens the joints and the muscles that help support the joints.
  • Adding a massage to your pet's daily schedule. Massage is very effective in easing joint stiffness and improving range of motion.
  • Focusing on comfort. It can be difficult for pets suffering from joint problems, cancer or other painful conditions to jump or walk. Make their lives easier by accommodating their disabilities. If your pet normally sleeps with you but can longer jump on the bed, buy or build steps or a ramp to allow him or her to continue to spend time with you. Pet beds provide a comfortable resting place during the day or night and help your pet avoid cold floors, which can make joint pain worse. If your cat has a joint disease, it may be difficult to reach the litter box in time. Place a litter box on every level of your home to avoid accidents.

Are you worried that your pet may be in pain? Call us today to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.

Call to schedule your pet's wellness or urgent care exam now: (952) 758-6722

Testimonials

  • We have been clients of New Prague Animal Care for over 13 years. They have provided exceptional and compassionate care for our “pack” (6 dogs and 3 cats). As a professional dog trainer, breeder of Best in Show and Master Hunter Retrievers as well an owner of multiple kennel/ doggy daycare facilities (30+ years), I have worked with numerous veterinary clinics both in the Twin Cities and nationwide. Dr. Steve and his crew rate among the finest I have worked with. The clinic has all of the fea

    ...
    Show More - Kathryn N
  • My dad has taken all of his dogs there for years, and I take mine there as well. Dr. Lavalle's bedside manner is amazing, and his staff are so genuine and caring. I always have, and will continue referring people to take their pets here. They are hands down the best veterinary care in the area!

    - Amber C
  • Have taken our dogs to Dr. Lavallee for over 10 years and he is great with each of them. He and his staff are very caring and helpful.

    - Barb S
  • Middle of a snow storm a few days ago. My little puppy was injured. I live in Faribult. Vet offices were closed in town. They actually called me while in route to see if I was ok. They were so good with the puppy. The cost was very reasonable. Called today to see how everything was going. I really was very impressed with this office. I recommend this place.

    ...
    Show More - Wendy E
  • Awesome experience! My pets love the care they get from Dr. Lavallee and his staff! They are not just a number; they care for them like my babies are family! Would highly recommend them!

    - SGGM
  • Found a 6-wk old kitten on the side of the highway and brought it in at 7pm on emergency basis. I was blown away by the compassion of Dr. Johnson's team. What a great experience. True animal people!

    - Anna H
  • Moved to New Prague and found this place for our dog.. Such great service, friendly staff, amazing Dr. and very accommodating to all of our needs!! Highly recommended by my pet family!!!

    - Kerri N
  • We love New Prague Animal Care, they are always so kind and caring, from the phone calls to when you walk in. We take our Siberian Husky Bandit in and he gets so much attention, well loved. We've had to take him in twice for emergencies, the in house testing was great, Dr. Johnson was able to resolve the issue almost immediately. I wouldn't take him anywhere else.

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    Show More - Myra C

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