There are many types of arthritis; the most common ones are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both differ in symptoms and causes.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the joints are painful, swollen and stiff. The immune system is not balanced and starts to attack its own joints. Because the immune system is not balanced many other symptoms that are not related to joints are present such as fever, fatigue, recurring infections, cold and allergies.
Osteoarthritis is the physical wear and tear of the joint that occurs over time due to lacking important minerals. The cartilage lining starts to break down and eventually bone rubs against bone. The joints are painful, crackling joint noise, deformation, stiffness but there is barely any swelling. There are no other whole body symptom present directly related to osteoarthritis.
Recommended natural products for dogs and cats
- L-lysine
L-lysine is an amino acid that helps boost the immune system, collagen production and contributes to calcium assimilation.
Recommended daily dosage: 250mg for small dogs/cats, 500mg for medium dogs and 1000mg for large dog
- Vitamin C in ascorbic acid form helps maintain healthy joint and prevents further deterioration
Recommended daily dosage: 500mg for small dogs/cats, 1000mg for medium dogs and 1500mg for large dogs
- Hyaluronic acid
This substance is found in the joint’s fluid and reduces inflammation
Recommended daily dosage: 20mg for small dogs/cats, 40mg for medium dogs, 80mg for large dogs
- Glucosamine sulfate & Chondroitin sulfate
Help form the connective tissue and prevent further deterioration of the joint. Relieves the pain.
Recommended daily dosage: 250mg glucosamine and 200mg chondroitin for smalls dogs/cats, 500 mg glucosamine and 400 mg chondroitin for medium dogs and 1000mg glucosamine and 800mg chondroitin for large dogs
In all supplements, it is best to divide the daily doses into smaller doses mixed with food. It will take 4 to 6 weeks to notice a difference therefore it is better to take the supplements 5 days on and 2 days off.
Use some or all of the recommended supplements above in addition to exercise, natural diet and stress free environment.
***PLEASE CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN BEFORE GIVING YOUR PET ANY SUPPLEMENTS. THIS ARTICLE IS NOT MEANT TO BE A SUBSTITUTION FOR MEDICAL ADVICE.***
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