Degenerative Disease: There IS something we can do about it

Degenerative

/dəˈjenərədiv/

• a progress of deterioration or decline over time

• this progressive change often results in a loss of function or ability, and it is often irreversible

Degenerative disease can have a major impact on the quality of life of pets. This progressive condition can result in a loss of function or ability and is often irreversible. Degenerative disease can cause permanent disability, and even death. Common examples of degenerative diseases in pets include osteoarthritis (OA), hip/elbow dysplasia, cervical spondylomyelopathy (Wobbler symdrome), intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and degenerative myelopathy (DM).

Unfortunately, many pet guardians believe that there is nothing that can be done about degenerative disease and that their pet’s quality of life will inevitably worsen over time. Although there is no cure for degenerative diseases (yet), there are many things we can do to help slow down the degenerative process and improve our pets’ quality of life.

Medication can be an effective way to manage and alleviate the symptoms of degenerative disease. Although medication does not necessarily cure degenerative diseases, it can help improve the quality of life for pets by reducing pain and other symptoms. For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with OA and IVDD. Because some medications may take time to have an effect, it can be helpful to keep track of changes in your pet’s symptoms with a medication progress tracker. Keeping a record can help you and your veterinarian determine if the medication is working and if any adjustments need to be made to the treatment plan.

Regular exercise can also be extremely beneficial for pets with degenerative disease. Targeted exercise can help improve muscle strength, increase flexibility and range of motion, and maintain functional mobility. Many low-impact exercises can be done using no equipment or regular household items. As we often say, movement is medicine! Regular physical activity, as short as 5-10 minutes a day, can make a big difference to our pet’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Nonetheless, not all exercises are appropriate for pets with degenerative disease. It is important to consult with professionals, such as rehabilitative veterinarians, physical therapists, and certified fitness trainers to design an exercise plan that is tailored to your pet’s condition, needs, and abilities.

Regular bodywork, such as massage and physical therapy, can help reduce muscle tension, increase circulation, and promote relaxation, which can in turn help reduce pain and improve mobility. Regular bodywork sessions can also help identify areas of concern for early professional intervention and treatment. Make sure to work with a trained bodywork professional as some conditions may be contraindicative to bodywork.

Additionally, lifestyle changes can play an important role in managing degenerative disease in pets. For example, maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce stress on the joints and improve mobility. Providing a comfortable and supportive environment, such as using orthopedic beds, ramps, and non-slippery floors to help pets get around, can also help alleviate pain and prevent further injury. Mental and physical stimulation through enrichment activities can also help improve cognitive function and overall well-being.

It is important to work with professionals, such as rehabilitative veterinarians, physical therapists, professional bodyworkers, and certified fitness trainers, to design an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your pet's specific condition, needs, and abilities. Treatment plans should also be evaluated regularly to ensure that the interventions are appropriate and safe for your pet. By implementing multi-modal intervention under the guidance of your veterinarian care team, you can help improve your pet’s quality of life, despite the degenerative nature of the disease.

While degenerative disease may be a common concern among pet owners, there are many things that can be done to slow down its progression and help our pets live happy, healthy lives.