5 Signs Your Pet's Joints Could Use Some Extra Support

1. Slowing Down During Play and Exercise

Jumping, running, and playing are signs of a healthy, happy pet. If a once-energetic pet has become more sedentary or tires quickly during normal activity, joint support is worth considering.

2. Occasional Stiffness or Favoring a Limb

Watch for a pet favoring a limb while moving, or seeming stiff after rest. Everyday movements like getting in and out of the car, walking the block, and using stairs can start to look a little harder for a pet dealing with occasional stiffness, and this is often most noticeable right after waking up.

3. Changes in Mood or Routine

You may notice a pet seeming more irritable than usual, especially around handling, or pulling back from play with family and other pets.

4. Loss of Muscle Tone

Less activity over time can lead to a gradual loss of muscle tone, often most noticeable in the hind legs, hips, neck, and face.

5. Changes in Grooming Habits

It's normal for pets to lick, chew, or bite at areas that bother them, which can lead to hair loss or irritated skin if left unchecked. In some cases, self-grooming becomes harder to keep up with, so you may need to step in and help. Grooming changes can also point to allergies, so an appointment with your veterinarian can help pin down the cause.

What Contributes to Occasional Joint Stiffness in Pets

Age is the most common factor, but it's far from the only one.

Genetics

Some breeds are more prone to occasional joint stiffness as they age, including Siamese, Maine Coon, and Persian cats, and Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Rottweilers.

Weight

Carrying excess weight is a well documented contributor to occasional joint stiffness in both dogs and cats, adding extra load to joints over time and accelerating normal wear.

Previous Injury or Trauma

A pet with a history of a dislocated limb, fracture, or other injury has a higher likelihood of occasional joint stiffness later in life.

Ways to Support Joint Comfort and Mobility

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a complementary approach some pet parents explore alongside veterinary care. It isn't a cure, but some integrative veterinarians and pet parents report it may help support relaxation, circulation, and overall comfort. Ask your veterinarian whether it's worth exploring for your pet.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help pets stay mobile as occasional joint stiffness comes up with age or after an injury. Common modalities for joint and mobility support include treadmill therapy, underwater treadmill therapy (hydrotherapy), low-level laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, and massage. As with any new therapy, it's worth checking in with your veterinarian first.

Support Your Pet's Joint Health

Fera's Joint collection helps maintain healthy joint function and ease joint stiffness due to normal exercise and activity, with options for dogs, cats, and multi-pet households.

As always, a conversation with your veterinarian is a great place to start, especially for a personalized plan.

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