DJD is caused by a lifetime of wear and tear from everyday activities such as walking, running, or jumping. But even perfectly made hips, elbows, and spines can become inflamed after years of ordinary movement. An arthritic pet is usually slow to rise in the morning, but improves slightly with exercise. He will usually limp. Sometimes the limp is only first thing in the morning or after exercise, but it can last all day long.
Most arthritic animals feel good about life and enjoy being petted and fed.
But when pain is severe and constant, your pet may become grouchy and may even snarl, bite, or scratch when touched. When a joint becomes inflamed, it quickly begins to degenerate. The cartilage wears and cracks, the bone forms new, rough surfaces and the fluid in the joint decreases, allowing bone to grind on bone. Once these changes happen, a joint can never be restored to a youthful, healthy condition. But the pain can be improved or controlled, allowing a normal life.