Joint Health Issues
Unfortunately, many pets will suffer from joint issues or injuries during their lifetime. Joint issues can occur due to a wide variety of conditions which may be due to the following: congenital disorders, hormonal changes, arthritis, fractures, obesity, and hip dysplasia. Any joint problems can cause pain, stiffness, weakness, inflammation and overall decreased health for your pet. The types of pets most at risk for joint issues are: obese pets, working breeds, diabetics, large breeds and pets that have suffered from an injury. Also, pets who are prone to orthopedic issues.
When considering how to care for your pet’s joint health, it is essential to consider all factors of their lifestyle. Proper diet and exercise can impact your pet’s overall well being which can affect joint health. It is essential to ensure that you are feeding and exercising your pet effectively. Adding a joint supplement to your pet’s daily diet can help ensure that their joint health is supported and maintained throughout their life. Many joint supplements for pets contain glucosamine, which is known for its joint supporting capabilities.
How Glucosamine Works
Glucosamine is a compound naturally found in cartilage, the connective tissue that provides support to the joint and allows for smooth motions when joints move. Glucosamine regulates the collagen synthesis in the cartilage by helping to build glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans, which are the two main building blocks for cartilage formation. Cartilage is necessary to reduce compressive forces between bones, increase the flexibility of bones, and provide support to otherwise weak joints. Healthy cartilage keeps your pet’s joints healthy. This helps prevent arthritis and other joint issues. Joint supplements are often used as an early intervention for potential mobility issues and as a treatment for pets suffering from progressive joint damage.
Glucosamine Benefits
Glucosamine is a safe and natural way to help improve your pet’s joint function and quality of life. It helps to restore joint health naturally by supporting the formation of healthy cartilage and joint fluids which lubricate the joints. This increases and maintains overall mobility. Glucosamine may reduce or even eliminate the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in some cases of mild arthritis when used on a regular basis. NSAIDs may only reduce the pain that your pet is experiencing, it does not repair the joints. Studies have shown that glucosamine supplementation encourages the body to repair articular cartilage, thereby reducing joint pain.
Considerations
Prior to giving your pet a joint supplement with glucosamine, you should consult with your veterinarian. This will help you identify the severity of your pet’s condition and the correct dosage needed to properly support them. If you have a breed that is known to develop joint issues later on in their life, adding glucosamine can be used to prevent or alleviate pain and discomfort. It is important to note that pet parents can purchase glucosamine without a prescription but it is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian for the proper dosage.