What are the signs of stiff joints in dogs?
The most common sign is a dog that's slow to get up after resting, then loosens up after a few minutes of walking. Other signs to look for:
- Slow to get up, especially first thing in the morning or after a nap
- Stiff for the first few minutes of a walk
- Lagging behind, or wanting to turn for home sooner
- Hesitating before stairs, the car or the sofa
- Weak or wobbly back legs
- Sitting or lying down more than usual on walks
- Seeming quieter or grumpier than normal
Older and larger dogs are most likely to show these signs, but any dog can.
What are the signs of stiff joints in cats?
Cats hide discomfort well, so the first sign is often that they stop jumping up to their usual spots. Also watch for:
- Jumping down more carefully, or using a chair as a step
- Sleeping more and playing less
- Pausing before stairs or the cat flap
- Grooming less, so their coat looks scruffy or matted over the back
- Missing the litter tray
- Seeming grumpy when picked up or stroked over the back
Why are joints stiffer in cold weather?
Stiffness after rest tends to be more noticeable in cold, damp weather, especially in older dogs and cats. Cold floors, draughty beds and wet walks all add to it, which is why keeping them warm and dry makes a difference.
When should you see a vet about stiff joints?
See your vet if your dog or cat is limping, crying out when touched, struggling to stand, or off their food. Go sooner if the stiffness came on suddenly or is getting worse. Stiffness can be a sign of arthritis, and only a vet can diagnose it and advise on treatment.
How can you help stiff joints at home?
Keep them warm, keep them moving gently, and make everyday movement easier. In practice:
- Warm bed: a thick, cushioned bed off a cold floor and out of draughts.
- Dry off after walks: towel them dry after wet walks, especially older dogs.
- Shorter, more frequent walks: two or three short walks rather than one long one, starting slowly.
- Grip and ramps: rugs on slippery floors, and a ramp for the car or sofa.
- Healthy weight: less weight means less load on their joints.
- For cats: add a step or stool to favourite spots, and keep the litter tray and food where they don't need to jump.
Do joint supplements help dogs?
A daily joint supplement made for dogs supports normal joint function as part of their routine. Our vet-approved Hip & Joint Supplement Chews contain, per two chews, 500mg glucosamine, 300mg green-lipped mussel and 200mg salmon oil, plus chondroitin, MSM, hyaluronic acid and turmeric.
Give them as a treat, from 1 chew a day for dogs up to 10kg to 5 chews for dogs over 40kg. They're suitable from 4 months. Double the amount for the first 4–6 weeks.
What joint support is suitable for cats?
Our joint chews are made for dogs, so for cats choose an omega-3 oil instead. Omega-3 fatty acids support normal joint function. Scottish Salmon Oil and Arctic Cod Liver Oil are both suitable for cats from 8 weeks.
- Small cats: 1 pump a day
- Medium or large cats: 2 pumps a day
Start with half the amount for the first week, mixed into their food. Choose one oil rather than both, and check with your vet first if your cat is on medication.
