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Home > Articles > The Herbal Treatment of Arthritis in the Older Cat and Dog

This condition is most commonly seen in the older dog or cat, although arthritis can occur in young animals occasionally. The first sign is usually stiffness when getting up after sleeping or after exercise.

There is obvious pain in the joints, usually with swelling and restriction of movement. It can be more noticeable during the winter months.Although there is no cure for arthritis, herbalmedicines given in conjunction with the correct diet and suitable supplements are effective in relieving pain, making movement easier andappear to delay the progress of the condition. Although some exercise is beneficial for mobility, it should always be gentle.

Mixed Vegetable tablets should be given daily to reduce acidity in the system, relieve the pain and make movement easier. These should be given in conjunction with Garlic & Fenugreek tablets to provide a comprehensive and effective treatment. Mobility problems will usually have developed over a long period of time and improvement therefore will be gradual but should be noticeable within a few weeks of starting treatment.

It is recommended that the treatment dosages be given for at least an initial month’s course if starting during the summer, and a two month course if beginning in the winter. As improvement is made the dosage can be reduced to the lower maintenance dose which can be continued for the rest of the animal’s life if necessary, in order to control the condition. Diet appears to play an important part in the maintenance of these conditions. Dairy products and red meat should be omitted from the diet as these tend to aggravate arthritic conditions. While looking at diet, also remember that if your dog or cat is overweight this will lead to more stress being put on joints, so if your pet needs to lose weight, give a suitable low calorie diet and add Kelp Seaweed tablets throughout the dieting period to assist with weight loss.

Glucosamine & Chondroitin is a very effective supplement to help maintain joint health, when given alongside the herbal medicine. Tablets can be crushed, if necessary, using a pill crusher. Cod Liver Oil capsules also help joint mobility and are a good source of Vitamins A & D.

So now you can help your pet remain happy and comfortable.

© Deborah Grant Herbal Medicine Ltd 2009. All rights reserved.