Veterinarians and owners want to make dogs and cats with bone problems more comfortable - whether the problem is arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or trauma related injuries. Treatment has included rest and medication such as steroids (i.e. prednisone) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (i.e. aspirin, Rimadyl, Metacam, Deramaxx, or Etogesic).
Now there is another class of medications known as nutraceuticals which are not truly drugs but rather are supplements that can be given to improve the health of joints, bones and discs. These can be given in combination with other modes of treatment or used alone.
There have been scientific studies done (mostly with Cosequin), and there is anecdotal evidence to indicate that these products can help animals afflicted with acute and chronic bone injuries. Some veterinarians still debate their efficacy; but there is no evidence that use of these products is detrimental to animals' condition or health.
Cosequin, Glycoflex and Vetri-disc can be given orally to both dogs and cats and contain combinations of glucosamines and chondroitin sulfate (known collectively as glycosaminoglycans (GAG's) which are the primary ingredients of joint fluid. The goal is to enhance the joint fluid and strengthen the joints, bones and discs, often weakened by inflammation. The improvement may take 4-6 weeks to see and may be gradual or dramatic. Given daily, a higher initial dose is needed and then the dose can be tapered to that animal's maintenance dose for long term management.
*Glycoflex is derived from Perna Canaliculus, a mussel that contains a high concentration of these GAG's and thus is a whole food supplement for connective tissue.
*Vetri-disc is derived from bovine tracheal cartilage and is combined with vitamins and minerals.
*Cosequin is a broad spectrum GAG enhancer used to increase the health and strength of connective tissue throughout the body.
*Adequan is another product that can be given as a GAG supplement and is given as an injection. Originally intended for use in horses, it can also be used on dogs. The standard protocol is a once weekly injection for the first month; an injection every other week for the second month and then as needed thereafter, as determined by the animal's signs (i.e. limping, discomfort).
To determine if one of these products would help your animal, ask your vet.
The above is general veterinary information. Do not begin any course of treatment without consulting your regular veterinarian. All animals should be examined at least once every 12 months.
Linda Mar Veterinary Hospital and its cat-only affiliate, Coastal Cat Clinic, are small animal practices located in Pacifica, California. To find a veterinarian or to learn more about the vet clinic and our staff, visit:[http://lindamarvet.com/]
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