Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How obesity and exercise affect joint disease in dogs and cats
By Frye, Christopher W et al.·Published in The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice·2016·Department of Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Obesity, Exercise and Orthopedic Disease.
Plain-English summary
Aging dogs and cats that are overweight or obese often suffer from arthritis, which can cause limping and pain. The extra weight puts too much stress on their joints, making their symptoms worse. Research shows that losing weight and increasing exercise can significantly help improve their mobility and reduce pain. By managing their weight, pet owners can help their furry friends feel better and move more comfortably.
People also search for: dog arthritis treatment · cat limping weight loss · how to help overweight pets · exercise for dogs with arthritis · cat joint pain relief
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is common among aging canine and feline patients. The incidence and severity of clinical lameness are closely correlated to body condition in overweight and obese patients. Excessive adiposity may result in incongruous and excessive mechanical loading that worsens clinical signs in affected patients. Data suggest a potential link between adipokines, obesity-related inflammation, and a worsening of the underlying pathology. Similarly, abnormal physical stress and generalized systemic inflammation propagated by obesity contribute to neurologic signs associated with intervertebral disc disease. Weight loss and exercise are critical to ameliorating the pain and impaired mobility of affected animals.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27289253/