What is Stiffness?
Stiffness of the muscles and joints is a common problem, especially in elderly pets. Pet owners often notice there pet is feeling stiff or struggling with joint aches when they walk with a stiff gait or limp, become less active or struggle to get up.
Cold mornings after long periods of rest are often the most difficult for pets with joint or muscle problems and it can take some time for your pet to get going during these mornings.
What Causes Stiffness?
While there are a number of causes of stiffness, the most common cause is arthritis, a condition that affects many pets especially the large breed dogs. Other causes of stiffness include:
- Scotty Cramp
- Eclampsia
- Muscle strain
- Hipdysplasia
- Inflammatory joint disease
- Inflamed vertebrae
- Anal sac tumors
- Bone cancer
Help for Stiffness
Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies related to stiffness Herbal and homeopathic ingredients have been used to treat joint and muscle problems for centuries and they can be most beneficial when looking for a natural way to treat your pet. Devil’s Claw is a firm favorite when treating arthritis or other inflammatory condition as it acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory and has anti-rheumatic properties.
Another very beneficial natural ingredient is Glucosamine Sulphate which can be used to ease pain and inflammation, increase mobility and assist in the repair of aging and damaged joints. Other natural ingredients recommended for the treatment of joint or muscle related stiffness include Spirulina, Calc flour, Nat phos, Nat sulph.