Joint Care Advice for Pets

Joint problems can occur at any stage of an animal’s life but are more likely in later years. Certain breeds are more susceptible to joint disease or joint defects that can affect the stability of their joints.

Here at OSCAR, we have a number of foods containing different joint care supplements to help maintain the joint health and mobility of our furry family members - all the way through puppyhood right through to their senior years.

What joint supplements can help your dog?

OSCAR use a combination of supplements to create a joint care system that is built into their food:

• Glucosamine provides building blocks to synthesize new joint cartilage

• Chondroitin blocks destructive enzymes that break down cartilage joint

• MSM can act as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant

• Fish Oils (containing fatty acids such as Omega-3) provide anti-inflammatory properties

At what age does your dog need joint support?

Joint care supplements are a great way to ensure the health, happiness and well-being of our extended families. Daily life can put stresses and strains on even the youngest joints, especially during play time, exercise and training, so it is important to take things slowly and not do too much at an early age. Why not take a look at our Healthy Growth Puppy, Large Breed Puppy, or Junior Chicken & Rice foods?

All OSCAR adult and senior foods contain a variety of joint supplements that help to keep our faithful friends mobile, if you require specific advice call our helpline on 0800 195 8000.

• Puppies - especially large or giant breeds while their joints are developing

• Active pets - pets that are active for more than three hours each day or those that may take part in running, agility, and regualr sports.

• Working Dogs – Herding, Gun dogs, Search and Rescue dogs and Assistance dogs are all on their paws for long periods of time and are often very active.

• Overweight - a few extra pounds can make all the difference to joint stress and strain due to carrying excess weight.

• Seniors - slowing down, sleeping more and generally being less active can be early signs of joint issues.

Extra joint support through supplements

Supplements such as Natural Vet Care Mobility or Ageility and Vet Care Mobility Liquid can be added to meals for those that appreciate a special topping on their food.

Let’s not forget our feline friends as they approach their later years. If you observe them sleeping more, struggling to groom, noticing them climbing, jumping or playing less, these can all be signs that they are starting to develop mobility problems. Why not try our Senior Cat Care? With added Glucosamine for joints (alongside the other nutritional benefits for skin, coat, teeth and urinary care) it is an excellent choice.

By offering supplements to our pawsome pets we can offer the support to enjoy life to the full in whatever they do, be that hopping onto our knee for a much-loved stroke and fuss, climbing on the window to watch the world go by, playing in the garden, going out for a run, or simply playing with their toys.

Dogs or cats with pre-existing joint disease may require higher levels of the various supplements than our diets provide. Always seek veterinary advice before adding extra supplements.

Do you need further advice?

If you need any further advice, please contact the OSCAR Helpline Team on our freephone number 0800 195 8000 or email helpline@oscars.co.uk.