NSAIDs are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation in pets, but they can come with risks—especially with long-term use or in sensitive animals. A holistic approach focuses on the whole pet, not just the symptoms, using nutrition, gentle therapies, and natural anti-inflammatory support to restore balance. When used thoughtfully and monitored closely, many families find they can reduce reliance on medications while still keeping their pets comfortable and thriving.
CBD Oil is a great alternative for pain management. We recommend CBD Dog health Ease (15% off coupon: SAVINGPETS) or Dr. Hemp Dog Ultra Mobility CBD Formula (10% coupon: SAVINGPETS).
Omega-3 oil or algal oil can help reduce inflammation.
Deer Elk Velvet for Dogs and Herbsmith Comfort Aches (10% off with URL) can also offer some relief.
NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are medications veterinarians often prescribe to help manage pain, inflammation, and arthritis in pets. They’re commonly used after surgery, for injuries, or to keep older dogs and cats more comfortable as joints age.
For many pets, these medications can be helpful and effective. At the same time, they are not without risk, especially when used long-term or in sensitive animals. From a holistic perspective, it’s important to understand both the benefits and the potential downsides so you can make informed, compassionate choices for your pet.
Common NSAIDs prescribed for dogs include Rimadyl (carprofen), Metacam (meloxicam), Deramaxx (deracoxib), Previcox (firocoxib), and Galliprant (grapiprant). Galliprant works a bit differently than traditional NSAIDs, but it’s still used for similar pain and mobility concerns.
Cats are far more sensitive to NSAIDs, so their options are limited and typically approved only for short-term use. The most commonly prescribed include Metacam (meloxicam), which must be used with great caution, and Onsior (robenacoxib), which is approved for brief use only.
Some pets tolerate NSAIDs well, but others may experience side effects. These can include digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, decreased appetite or lethargy, stomach ulcers or internal bleeding, and stress on the liver or kidneys. Because of this, pets taking NSAIDs should be closely monitored, and regular bloodwork is essential to catch problems early.
If you’re looking for gentler, more supportive ways to help your pet feel comfortable, there are many natural and holistic options that can either complement or, in some cases, reduce the need for medications.
Green-lipped mussel is a favorite for joint support. It’s naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids and compounds that help reduce inflammation while being easy on the digestive system.
CBD oil is another option many guardians turn to for pain relief and relaxation. It’s important to use a high-quality, pet-specific product and start with very low doses, adjusting slowly based on your pet’s response.
Turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin, is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory. For it to be effective, it needs to be in a form that’s well absorbed, often combined with fats or other supportive ingredients.
Boswellia is an herbal anti-inflammatory that can be especially helpful for stiff, achy joints and chronic discomfort.
Omega-3 fatty acids from high-quality fish oil or algal oil play a big role in reducing inflammation throughout the body and supporting joint, skin, and overall health. Purity and proper dosing are key.
Acupuncture, red light therapy, and cold laser therapy are gentle, non-invasive therapies that can significantly improve comfort and mobility, particularly in senior pets or those with chronic pain.
Homeopathy can also be supportive. Remedies such as Arnica or Rhus Tox are often used for injuries, soreness, or stiffness, but they work best when guided by a knowledgeable holistic or integrative veterinarian who can select the right remedy for your individual pet.
Every pet is unique, and pain management should always be tailored to the whole animal, not just the symptoms. Whether you’re using conventional medications, natural therapies, or a thoughtful combination of both, the goal is the same: comfort, safety, and a better quality of life for your pet.
Certain mushrooms can be very helpful for pain and inflammation when used thoughtfully and appropriately. From a holistic perspective, they work less like a quick “pain pill” and more like gentle regulators that calm inflammation, support the immune system, and help the body heal at a deeper level.
Many medicinal mushrooms contain beta-glucans, polysaccharides, antioxidants, and triterpenes that help modulate the immune response rather than overstimulate it. This is important because chronic pain is often driven by ongoing, low-grade inflammation or immune dysregulation.
Here are the most commonly used mushrooms for pain and inflammation and how they work holistically:
Reishi
Reishi is one of the best mushrooms for inflammatory pain. It has strong anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties and is especially helpful when pain is tied to arthritis, autoimmune conditions, allergies, or chronic stress. Reishi also supports the nervous system and adrenal health, which can indirectly reduce pain by calming an overactive stress response.
Turkey Tail
Turkey Tail supports gut and immune health, which is critical because inflammation often starts in the gut. By improving microbiome balance and immune regulation, it can help reduce systemic inflammation that contributes to joint pain, skin inflammation, and chronic disease.
Chaga
Chaga is rich in antioxidants and is often used for inflammatory conditions linked to oxidative stress. It can be helpful for chronic inflammatory pain, skin inflammation, and immune-driven discomfort.
Lion’s Mane
While not a classic anti-inflammatory, Lion’s Mane supports nerve health and regeneration. It may help with nerve-related pain, cognitive inflammation, and discomfort associated with neurological conditions.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps helps improve cellular energy and oxygen utilization. It can be useful for muscle fatigue, inflammatory pain related to weakness or aging, and recovery after illness or injury.
A few important holistic considerations:
For pets, medicinal mushrooms are commonly used to support arthritis, chronic inflammation, cance-related pain, and immune balance, and they are often gentler than long-term NSAIDs when used correctly.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Dr. Katie’s Remedies Nerve Pain Symptom Support helps relieve nerve-related discomfort in dogs and cats caused by inflammation, injury, or chronic conditions. It can ease shooting, burning, or tingling pain from issues like neuropathy, pinched nerves, spinal problems, arthritis, or post-surgical nerve irritation. This gentle homeopathic formula supports comfort, mobility, and recovery by calming overactive nerves and reducing sensitivity throughout the body.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Dr. Katie’s Remedies Daily Joint Support helps maintain healthy joints, flexibility, and mobility in dogs and cats of all ages. This gentle homeopathic formula supports joint comfort, reduces stiffness, and promotes natural lubrication and movement, especially in aging pets or those with arthritis or hip and elbow discomfort. Used daily, it helps ease soreness from exercise or aging while supporting long-term joint health and overall vitality.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Promote your dog’s vitality and resilience with the Resilience Duo—pairing HEAL Full Spectrum Hemp Extract with Vitality Mushroom & Adaptogen Blend. This combination supports immune balance, cellular health, and overall well-being—perfect for dogs facing physical challenges, life transitions, or times of recovery.
This Duo Can Help Support:
Immune system balance
Cellular health & vitality
Inflammatory response
Energy levels & endurance
Nervous system health
Resilience during physical stress or change
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
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.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Introducing our NEW MycoCat tinctures! Vitality is a blend of natural adaptogens and mushroom extracts from wild-harvested and naturally cultivated mushrooms, formulated to support immune balance and overall wellness—especially in cats with greater health challenges.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
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.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “NSAIDs – These Drugs Can Kill Your Pet If Given Incorrectly.”
“How To Reduce Pain Naturally in Your Dogs and Cats (Top 5 Ways)” by Dr. Katie Woodley – The Natural Pet Doctor.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Alternative Pain Management for Dogs and Cats” a FREE digital pdf to download.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Pain Management for Pets.”
“What Antibiotis REALLY Do to Your Dog’s Gut (Holistic Vet Explains” by Dr. Katie Woodley – The Natural Pet Doctor.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Pain Medications.”
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Cat Pain Management.”
If you have a question on this topic that wasn’t answered here, we invite you to ask it in our Facebook group.
Dogs and cats often hide pain, especially cats. Common signs include limping, stiffness, difficulty jumping or climbing stairs, reluctance to play, excessive licking of joints, changes in posture, hiding, irritability, decreased appetite, or altered sleep patterns. Chronic inflammation can also show up as subtle behavioral changes. Early recognition and addressing root causes—especially diet and inflammation—can significantly improve quality of life.
The most effective natural pain relief begins with reducing inflammation at its source. Species-appropriate, minimally processed diets rich in bioavailable nutrients are foundational. Omega-3 fatty acids, green lipped mussel, turmeric, boswellia, bone broth, and targeted joint support supplements can help reduce inflammatory pathways. Integrative therapies such as acupuncture, laser therapy, and chiropractic care may further support mobility and comfort. The best approach is individualized and layered rather than relying on a single supplement.
Pain medications such as NSAIDs, gabapentin, or newer monoclonal antibody injections are usually the first course of action from traditional veterinarians. However, they may carry risks, especially with long-term use, including liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal effects. A balanced approach combines appropriate medical oversight with dietary anti-inflammatory support and gut protection. Supporting detox pathways, maintaining hydration, and addressing underlying inflammation can help improve safety and overall outcomes.
If our pets were in in pain this is what we would do:
We encourage you to download and share these graphics for personal use and on social media, if desired. However, please note that these graphics cannot be altered in any manner, and you are not authorized to present them as your original creations.
The graphics presented herein are the intellectual property of the identified original creators, used with permission here, or are the result of our own development. Any use for resale or commercial purposes requires explicit written consent from the content creators.
We’ve poured our hearts into creating this website for you, and we’re still bustling with excitement to keep it going! As a team of volunteers, we’re using our own resources to bring this information to life. There are many ways you can show your support for our efforts. We greatly appreciate it! If we’ve been able to help you on your journey to a healthier pet, we would love it if you consider showing your support.
