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Arthritis

Arthritis in Dogs & Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Diet & Holistic Support

Arthritis is common in pets but doesn’t have to limit their joy or mobility. With the right blend of anti-inflammatory nutrition, natural supplements, gentle movement, and home adjustments, you can ease pain and support joint health naturally. A holistic approach helps your pet stay comfortable, active, and happy well into their senior years.

Traditional vets will prescribe Librela, Solensia or Gabapentin. These are short term solutions that can cause long term problems.

CBD Oil can relieve discomfort and support mobility. There are many on the market that are not good quality. We recommend CBD Dog Health Ease (15% off coupon: SAVINGPETS) or DR. HEMP DOG ULTRA SENIOR MOBILITY FORMULA CBD (10% COUPON: SAVINGPETS).

A raw or gently cooked diet and maintaining a healthy weight is key!

Holistic Ways to Relieve Arthritis in Dogs and Cats Without Harsh Medications

Arthritis is a common condition in aging pets, but it can also affect younger animals due to injury, genetics, or joint disease. It causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While conventional treatments often rely on medications, many pet parents prefer a holistic approach to support their pets naturally and gently.

Common Signs of Arthritis in Pets

  • Stiffness, especially after rest or in the morning
  • Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs
  • Lameness or limping
  • Behavioral changes like irritability or withdrawal
  • Muscle loss in affected limbs
  • Licking or chewing at painful joints


Root Causes

  • Aging and joint wear-and-tear
  • Hip or elbow dysplasia
  • Old injuries or surgeries
  • Obesity adding stress to joints
  • Poor nutrition or inflammation from diet


Holistic Management Options

1. Diet and Nutrition

A species-appropriate, anti-inflammatory diet can go a long way. Many holistic vets recommend raw or gently cooked food with:

2. Natural Supplements

3. Bodywork and Movement Therapies

  • Massage therapy: reduces stiffness and improves circulation
  • Acupuncture: shown to help manage chronic pain in many pets
  • Cold laser therapy: reduces inflammation and promotes healing
  • Red light therapy: promotes healing and reduces inflammation and pain 
  • Swimming or underwater treadmill: provides gentle, low-impact exercise
  • Chiropractic care: can realign joints and reduce pain

4. Home Environment Support

  • Provide orthopedic beds for joint support
  • Use ramps or stairs to avoid jumping
  • Keep nails trimmed to avoid gait issues
  • Use rugs or non-slip mats on slippery floors

5. Weight Management

Extra weight puts more pressure on arthritic joints. A lean pet is a more comfortable pet. Weight loss through proper diet and gentle movement is essential.

When Medication Is Needed

Sometimes pain levels require temporary or long-term pharmaceutical help. Always work with a vet who understands your holistic goals. An integrative vet can help you balance conventional meds with natural support.

Closing Thoughts

Arthritis doesn’t have to mean suffering. With the right blend of diet, supplements, movement, and environment, you can help your pet stay comfortable and mobile well into their senior years. Every small change makes a difference when done with care and consistency.

Gabapentin, Librela and Solensia: Risks and Side Effects Pet Owners Should Know

Medications like Gabapentin, Librela, and Solensia are often marketed as simple, safe fixes for pain and arthritis — but they’re not the panacea many pet parents were promised. While they may bring relief for some, others experience troubling side effects ranging from sedation and weakness to kidney strain, skin reactions, and even seizures. True healing comes from addressing the root cause — through whole, species-appropriate nutrition, gentle movement, and natural support that strengthens your pet from the inside out. 

Featured Products for Arthritis and Joint Pain in Dogs

  1. CBD Dog Health Ease (15% off with coupon: SAVINGPETS)
    $87.99

    Great for dogs with achy joints, itchy skin, or seasonal sensitivities. EASE supports their mobility and comfort, and helps keep their inflammatory and immune systems balanced.

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  2. Adored Beast Apothecary Jump for Joynts
    $29.99

    Supports healthy joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Jump for JOYnts can support issues such as ACL injuries, arthritis, and bone and muscle injuries.

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  3. CBD Dog Health Ease for Cats (15% off coupon: SAVINGPETS)
    $87.99

    Great for cats with achy joints, itchy skin, or seasonal sensitivities, EASE supports mobility and comfort, helping your cat maintain healthy inflammatory and immune system balance.


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    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  4. Tvati Natural Pet Ointment for Joint Health & Mobility (10%coupon: SavingPets)
    $199.00

    Tvati Pet’s all-natural formula combines sustainably sourced Hibiscus oil & Organic Coconut Oil carrier to support your pet’s joint health, mobility, and overall vitality.

    Inspired by traditional Cook Islands remedies and backed by peer-reviewed research, this easy-to-use topical solution is applied once daily behind your pet’s neck for six weeks. No pills, no hassle, just effective relief.

    Free from parabens, sulfates, and dyes, Tvati Pet is designed for pets dealing with aging, arthritis, or mobility challenges. It helps maintain healthy joints, supports energy levels, and naturally promotes long-term wellness.

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Tvati logo

 “Dr. Graham Matheson Introduces Tvati for Pets.”

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“Head Trainer and President of Capalaba Race Track”  by John Catton.

Medical Devices for Joint Pain and Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

  1. According to "Gospel" Red Light Therapy for Horses, Dogs and Pets | Equine Light Therapy
    Price Varies

    Use by laying flat on your animal's back, shoulder, neck, or poll

    Wrap around a leg or hoof, easily wraps around a hock

    Great for tendons, ligaments, splints, sore shins, edema, wounds or preventive maintenance.

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  2. PetLoop PRO | Wearable PEMF for Dogs - Relaxation & Healing On the Go Petspemf
    $389

    Its unique U-shaped design allows it to surround and support specific joints like hips, knees, and shoulders, or be worn around the neck for direct calming effects. 


    Available in two specialized models: Harmony delivers a 25 Hz frequency to soothe the nervous system and reduce anxiety, while Recovery uses a multi-frequency cycle to accelerate natural healing and ease discomfort. 


    App-free and simple to use, just double-tap to start a two-hour session of drug-free recovery.


    Ideal for pets who:

    • Require targeted support for specific joints, such as hips, knees, or shoulders.
    • Experience localized stiffness or mobility challenges after activity or due to aging.
    • Suffer from anxiety or stress and benefit from focused, wearable calming therapy.


    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  3. Petspemf RollnRest | Orthopedic PEMF Dog Bed - Comfort That Heals
    $799

    The world's first rollable orthopedic bed with integrated PEMF therapy, combining premium orthopedic support with pulsed electromagnetic field technology to turn every rest into recovery.

    Key Benefits:

    • Therapeutic-grade orthopedic foam with a cooling gel layer for superior comfort and joint support
    • Motion-activated PEMF therapy that starts automatically when your pet lies down
    • App-controlled programs for pain relief, stress relief, accelerated healing, and daily wellness
    • Helps support mobility, circulation, recovery, and overall well-being
    • Waterproof inner cover with a removable, machine-washable outer cover
    • Rollable, lightweight design for easy storage and travel

    Perfect for senior pets, pets with joint pain or reduced mobility, and those recovering from surgery or injury.

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  4. Petspemf Pad
    $499

    The #1 pet-safe PEMF mat for dogs and cats with multi-program therapy for natural pain relief, stress reduction, and faster recovery from the comfort of home.

    Ideal for pets who:

    • Experience joint pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility
    • Are aging and need extra daily comfort or senior pet support
    • Are recovering from activity, training, surgery, or injury

    petspemf figma chip bolt

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Additional Information

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Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “All Things ‘Osteo’ Arthritis For Dogs and Cats.”

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“Arthritis in Dogs”  by Dr. Conor Brady.

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Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Types of Inflammation in Pets Ending in ‘-itis’ .”

Natural Pete Doctor

“How To Reduce Pain Naturally in Your Dogs and Cats (Top 5 Ways)”  by Dr. Katie Woodley.

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“Dog Arthritis And Joint Inflammation: Signs, Causes And Natural Solutions”  by Dr. Nick Thompson.

CBDDogHealthLogo

“Mobility And Joint Support For Dogs With Full Spectrum Hemp Extract”  by Angela Ardolino.

ProDogRawLogo2

“Supporting Dogs With Joint Issues: Nutrition And Holistic Therapies Explained”  by Dr. Nick Thompson.

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“How To Treat Joint Pain, Stiffness, Injuries And Arthritis In Dogs Without Drugs”  by Dr. Peter Dobias.

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“Lameness, Cruciate Tears, Hip Dysplasia and Osteoarthritis”  by Drs. Judy & Steve.

CBDDogHealthLogo

“Supporting Joint Health in Cats: Natural Approaches for Comfort And Mobility”  by Angela Ardolino.

LogoWeb 471199e3 5d09 4065 b58e a87caa4b5c6e

Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Treating Arthritis Naturally.”

Adored Beast Logo

“Joint Support For Cats: 5 Helpful Tips”  by The Adored Beast Team.

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Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “How Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Can Help Your Dogs in Pain.“

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“Expert Advice on Dog Fitness, Mobility And Injuries in Dogs”  by Dr. Peter Dobias and Dr. Laurie McCauley. 

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If you have a question on this topic that wasn’t answered here, we invite you to ask it in our Facebook group.

Natural and Holistic Recommendations for Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

This is what we would do for our pets  (do either the Adored Beast Jump for Joynts or Gold Standard Herbs Lumbrex and Voltrex):

  1. Feed Solutions Joint & Muscle Restorative Diet (5% coupon: SAVINGPETS) or one of the other diets under diet recommendations.
  2. Tvati for Pets Daily Mobility Formula (10% coupon:SavingPets) is our top pick. 
  3. Adored Beast Jump for Joynts
  4. CBD Dog Health Ease (15% off: SAVINGPETS)
  5. Adored Beast Potent Sea Omega 3 Oil
  6. Gold Standard Herbs Voltrex
  7. gold Standard Herbs Lumbrex
  8. Green LippED Mussel Treats (5% off with this URL))
  9. Bone Broth 3-4 times a week
  10. Chicken Jiggles (5% off this URL)
  11. See Kelly’s Arthritis Picks on the Saving Pets Store (5% coupon: SAVINGPETS) and on LinkTree.
  12. We have had great success with the According to “Gospel” Red Light Therapy Pad, Medcovet Luma Red Light Therapy Device and Assisi Loop Lounge.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions Regarding Arthritis for cats & dogs

Early signs can be subtle and are often mistaken for normal aging. Pets may move more slowly, hesitate to jump, struggle with stairs, limp after resting, or seem stiff when getting up. Some animals become less playful, sleep more, or show changes in behavior because joint discomfort makes movement difficult.

Many pets benefit from a whole-body approach that focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting joint health. Fresh, species-appropriate diets, maintaining a healthy weight, omega-3 fatty acids, collagen, green-lipped mussels, and hyaluronic acid can support joint mobility. Gentle movement, physical therapy, red light therapy, assisi loop, acupuncture, laser therapy, and supportive bedding can also help improve comfort and quality of life.

Yes. While arthritis is more common in senior pets, younger animals can develop joint disease due to injuries, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, genetic predisposition, or chronic inflammation. Early support through nutrition, joint protection, and proper exercise can help slow progression and keep pets more comfortable long term.

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