Chapter 7: Joint Care for Senior Pets

Chapter 7: Joint Care for Senior Pets

Joint support matters for ageing dogs and cats, especially larger breeds and pets with previous injuries. Glucosamine and chondroitin are commonly sold, though evidence in pets is modest; omega-3 has better support for joint comfort. Weight management is the single most effective joint intervention, and in Malaysian apartments, limited exercise space makes portion control essential. Senior cats often hide arthritis; watch for reluctance to jump, stiffness after rest, or reduced grooming. Never give human joint products, as some contain ingredients toxic to pets. Local note: slippery tiled floors are common in Malaysian homes; add mats or runners to help unstable seniors move safely. Supplements work best alongside vet-approved exercise plans and pain management. If your pet shows lameness or pain, see your vet first rather than relying on supplements alone.