Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is just one of the chronic inflammatory diseases affecting dogs. In this condition, the immune system, once helping in fighting off invading organisms, now attacks the joints, causing inflammation and gradual destruction and pain of the affected joints. Although the primary case of RA remains in humans, it can also affect dogs. The importance of understanding RA in dogs lies in having earlier diagnosis and subsequent effective management.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis in Dogs?

RA is a type of autoimmune disease. Typically, the immune system incorrectly attacks some part of the body's tissues. In the case of RA, it majorly damages the synovial joints of the movable ones such as elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles. The synovial membrane, a component of the joint where the lubricating fluid is produced, becomes inflamed. After a certain period, this inflammation starts destroying the cartilage and the bone, causing intense chronic pain and stiffness.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Dogs

RA is believed to be a combination of both genetic predispositions and environmental causes. Even though the reason might not be completely known, there are various factors that may contribute to the said disease, some of which have been identified below:

Genetic Factors: Some breeds have known to suffer from RA. The hereditary factor is a good reason why certain breeds can be susceptible to RA. Some of the breeds at an increased risk include Shetland Sheepdogs, Greyhounds, and Toy Poodles.

Immune system disorder: In RA, the immune system is attacking the joints, which it mistakenly thinks are foreign invaders.

Infections: Some bacterial or viral infections can overstimulate the immune system, leading to autoimmune diseases such as RA.

Age: Although RA is possible in younger dogs, it is commonly diagnosed in middle-aged or older dogs.

Signs of Canine Rheumatoid Arthritis

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may begin insidiously and are often overlooked as mere part of the aging process or conditions otherwise referred to as osteoarthritis that can develop in the joint. Nevertheless, the symptoms of RA tend to be more systemic in character and not as severe as other conditions. A few common manifestations include:

Lameness or limping: Affected dogs will often limp or hold up one or more limbs, especially after lying around or after overexertion.

Joint stiffness: Dogs with RA frequently have an issue moving about, especially after periods of lying still.

Swollen, painful joints: Joints may be swollen or feel warm to the touch.

Muscle wasting: Chronic inflammation can cause muscle loss in the joints themselves.

Fatigue: RA is a systemic disease so dogs may generally appear lethargic or reluctant to exercise.

Lethargy: Affected dogs may generally play less and be more withdrawn due to chronic pain.

Fever: Some dogs may be febrile due to low-grade fever related to immune response.

 Diagnosis

The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis in dogs is made through a thorough physical examination, clinical signs diagnostic tests, and what your veterinarian might use to make the diagnosis.

X-rays : This may be used to determine the visualization of damage to the joints and inflammation, as well as changes that occur within the bone.

Blood tests : Rheumatoid factor tests may be done, but these are not always definitive for RA. RF might be present in other conditions.

Joint Fluid Analysis: A joint fluid sample may be obtained and analyzed for inflammatory markers to aid in the confirmation of RA.

Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

There is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment is rather focused on the management of its symptoms, reducing inflammation, and improving quality of life in the affected dog. Common treatment strategies include:

1. Medications

NSAIDs: These help to decrease inflammation and subsequently decrease pain. On the other hand, the long-term use of NSAIDs must be closely monitored for side effects.

Corticosteroids: These steroids, including prednisone, are potent anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed to suppress the immune system to reduce the inflammation in joints. These are generally prescribed only for serious cases.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Medications like methotrexate or cyclosporine are able to regulate the immune response and slow down the progress of RA.

Pain relievers: Analgesics such as tramadol may be given when the condition advances to a certain extent.

2. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy will also enhance the dog's movement, reduce stiffness, and strengthen muscles around the joints. Hydrotherapy or water exercises is very advisable for dogs with RA because it enables exercising without stressing the joints.

3. Weight Management

A healthy weight is a good requirement for dogs suffering from RA. Extra weight adds stress to the joints and increases pain and inflammation. There are several ways to maintain ideal weight either through diet or exercise.

4. Supplements

Some supplements may be added to your dog's treatment plan. Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin are available, although their efficacy is still questionable. Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect, so they might be helpful to use in cases of RA.

5. Surgery

Other surgeries, including arthrodesis (fusion) or joint replacement, can be undertaken once the disease has progressed to an advanced stage with the disease being resistant to medical management.

Home Care for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Home care can play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life of a dog diagnosed with RA. Such as:

Orthopedic or memory foam mattresses to allow good comfort while sleeping, thus encouraging the comfortable sleep of your dog and relieving the pressure on the joints.

Exercise: Gentle and controlled exercises can be given, such as a short walk or swimming. This will help maintain muscle strength without worsening joint pains.

Warmth: Your dog must be kept warm during cold weather since cold can well intensify joint stiffness and discomfort, and this should be made sure.

Regular vet check-ups: "Regularly monitoring your dog's condition and adjusting treatments as necessary" is essential for keeping him healthy and well.

Like humans, rheumatoid arthritis in dogs is a painful debilitating condition, but it is possible for dogs to live relatively comfortable lives with the right management and treatment plan. Early diagnosis, proper medication, and lifestyle adjustments should be aimed at slowing the progression of the disease and keeping your dog as active and pain-free as possible.

So, in case you consider your dog to show signs of rheumatoid arthritis, then seek advice from your veterinarian so that he can help figure out the gravity of the condition and the course of treatment.