Diets for your dog in pain
For dogs with arthritis
There is a strong association between canine obesity and arthritis. This is because of the combination of the increased weight and lack of support for the joints can lead to premature degeneration of them. This excess weight puts more stress on joints, causing your pain pet.
It is possible that dietary measures can slow the development of arthritis in a number of ways, namely modifying the inflammatory response, providing nutrients for repair, and protecting the cartilage from oxidative damage.
Dietary supplements such as chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be helpful in alleviating arthritic symptoms.
Evaluating and reducing canine obesity (Focus on overweight dogs) as well as providing your dog with dietary supplements can aid in the management of arthritis.
Dietary guidelines – A few tips to manage osteoarthritis (or arthritis) in your pet:
Feed your dog foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, as these can reduce inflammation, as well as chondroitin or glucosamine supplements, which have antioxidant properties.
Ask your vet for more information.
Dietary supplements can be used to relieve pain in osteoarthritis. Your vet will prescribe pain killers if your dog needs them.
A healthy lifestyle for your pet remains the core component of preventing and managing chronic disease.
After your pet’s surgery
Most dogs will not eat their regular food after surgery. They may not eat properly for the first day or two after surgery.
During recovery your pet's movement and eating should be restricted, not only to prevent rupturing its sutures, but also to prevent nausea (over-consumption too soon after surgery may cause an upset stomach). Limiting food and water consumption will allow your dog to readjust slowly and not gain too much weight while being less active than usual.
Several canine recovery diets are available for surgical convalescence. These are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Check with your vet before putting your animal on this type of diet.
