Painful, stiff joints and decreased mobility associated with osteoarthritis in dogs and cats can be heartbreaking to witness. Your pet trusts you to protect it from threats both internal and external. Fortunately, there are a variety of pain medications available on the market today that have been proven effective at managing inflammation and discomfort due to arthritis. Consult with your veterinarian and select one based on your animal's particular needs, physical makeup, existing prescription profile and temperament. Here are a number of options to get your started in treating your pet.
Novox (carprofen)
Available in caplets designed to be taken orally, Novox caplets are typically prescribed for the relief of pain and inflammation accompanying osteoarthritis in dogs as well as managing postoperative pain associated with soft tissue and orthopedic surgical procedures in dogs. With your veterinarian, establish a medication plan and administration system that will keep your animals as comfortable as possible. In order to minimize the possibility of stomach upset and ulcers, administer the caplets with food. Potential side effects include possible mild upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness and aggression. If you observe other side effects in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Gabapentin Capsules or Tablets
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and pain medication commonly prescribed to relieve chronic pain in cats or dogs. Given by mouth, it may be applied by itself or in combination with other medications. Dosages vary. Gabapentin may be administered in 100 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg capsules or, alternatively, in tablets up to 600 mg or 800 mgs. An oral solution is also available. If you pet is nursing or pregnant, Gabapentin is not recommended for use. Gabapentin is also not recommended for animals who are suffering from kidney or liver disease, or living with a blood disorder. If your pet displays an allergic reaction to Gabapentin, contact your veterinarian to reevaluate your animal's prescription.
Norocarp (carprofen)
Norocarp is an anti-inflammatory indicated for the relief of mild to severe pain and inflammation in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. It's an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) that has been prescribed either to relieve your dog's arthritis associated pain or to manage pain following a surgical procedure. It should be emphasized that his medication is recommended for dogs only. Norocarp is effective in controlling stiffness and pain from arthritis in addition to improving your dog's personal mobility, granting significant relief and overall improvement in quality of life. As each dog possesses a unique body chemistry, responses are variable. However, most dogs enjoy a noticeable reduction in pain sensation. Norocarp is currently available in both caplets and chewable tablets for easy administration.
Deramaxx (deracoxib)
Deramaxx is an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) prescribed to manage mild to moderate pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Please note that this pain management drug is exclusively for the treatment of dogs. Deramaxx does not offer an effective cure for canine osteoarthritis. However, it has been proven effective in mitigating pain and can effect a dramatic improvement in your dog's comfort and mobility. Signals that may indicate that your dog is suffering from pain symptoms related to canine osteoarthritis include observed limping or lameness, decreased activity, reluctance to stand, walk or run, climb stairs, or a noticeable struggle in trying to engage these activities. Available in chewable flavored tablets for easy ingestion and convenient administration, Deramaxx is available in a 25 mg dosage, as well as 75 mg and 100 mg tablets. Please consult your veterinarian to determine the optimal dosage for your dog.
Rimadyl Chewable (carprofen)
For dogs enduring the painful symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, Rimadyl is an effective pain control medication that also works as an anti-inflammatory, so your pet can enjoy a more comfortable recovery while remaining active. Currently available in chewable tablets for simple administration, Rimadyl is best given with food in order to prevent upset stomach or developing ulcers in your pet. Reaction will vary with each animal, but most pets do enjoy a significant reduction in pain and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis. In order to determine the correct dosage for your pet, consult your veterinarian. In order prevent harmful interactions, it is necessary to establish a medication plan based on any other prescriptions your dog may be on.
Possible side effects can include mild dyspepsia, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness and aggression. If you observe any other side effects in your dog, or if your dog becomes listless and irritable, consult your veterinarian immediately.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from arthritis, speak with your veterinarian about options for treatment, including the solutions mentioned above. In a little while, your furry companion will be ready to romp around like a youngster again.
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