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Senior Pet Talk | for dogs + cats

3. Is My Pet in Pain? Managing Arthritis in Senior Dogs and Cats

July 9 · 44 min · Season 1 · Episode 3 · 21.1 MB
0:00-44:03

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Is my pet in pain? It's one of the hardest questions to answer because pets are so good at hiding it. In this episode, Dr. Steffen dives into pain management in senior dogs and cats, with a focus on arthritis and how it quietly shows up through changes in movement, behavior, grooming, and daily routines.

She gets into:

  • How common arthritis really is in senior pets
  • Recognizing the signs of pain in dogs and cats
  • There's no single "best" treatment for every pet
  • Multimodal pain management strategies (why one approach usually isn't enough)
  • Western and alternative treatment options
  • The risks and benefits of NSAIDs and medications
  • The role of acupuncture, laser therapy, and CBD
  • Simple home modifications for comfort and safety like ramps, rugs, litter box access, beds, bowls, and stair support

Senior pets aren't helpless, and even with arthritis, there are still so many ways to improve their comfort and quality of life - listen in to learn how.

LINKS

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to senior pet pain management
03:43 - Understanding pain in senior pets
11:13 - How to spot pain symptoms in your pet
19:59 - Multimodal pain management strategies
30:34 - Alternative therapies and home care tips
39:03 - Building a personalized care plan for senior pets

Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.