Update on Non-pharmacological Management of Canine Osteoarthritis

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is characterized by being a common chronic disease in both dogs and cats. It is a slow and progressive inflammatory disease, characterized by degeneration of the articular cartilage, hypertrophy of the bone at the margins and changes in the synovial membrane, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. Joint damage generates the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, causing damage to type II collagen and proteoglycans, resulting in a perpetual destructive cycle. Among the predisposing factors are genetics, overweight and excessive exercise that can lead to traumatic injuries. The use of carprofen, firocoxib, meloxicam and many other analgesics used in the moderation of the clinical signs of osteoarthritis is recognized, however, the presence of side effects limits its use to all patients for long periods of time. Aims: to evaluate the vision of new non-pharmacological alternatives that allow a more effective pain management and help in the improvement of joint mobility. Conclusions: there are multiple options for the treatment of joint pain in canines, from conventional medicine to homeopathy and even moxibustion and massage, which added to each other only provide benefits in the control of joint pain.