Arthritis

How can arthritis be relieved?

Cartilage is made up of collagen, water and proteoglycans (a special type of protein). For the maintenance and repair of joints to repair, the body must be fueled with the right building blocks, so our pets need to consume

• essential fatty acids
• glucosamine, and
• chondroitin
• sulphur containing, free form amino acids

These nutrients are readily available in a well-planned species-appropriate diet. There is substantial evidence that glucosamine and chondroitin (present in its natural form in a species-appropriate diet) effectively relieve arthritic pain and help the body recover from joint trauma.

Bone broth is an easily digestible, readily available source of beneficial nutrients. It contains

• collagen which helps lubricate joints,
• the anti-inflammatory amino acid proline to help build healthy cartilage, and
• glycosaminoglycans and chondroitin sulphate which have lubricating, cushioning and protective properties.
  

Consuming oily fish or fish oil supplements can also benefit arthritic dogs and cats. The essential fatty acids in these help to dampen the inflammatory response. We recommend animal based oils over vegetable oil supplements (such as flax or evening primrose oil) as carnivores are designed to eat animals that have already converted these vegetable oils to useful substances. Raw rabbit, possum and chicken are also high in usable essential fatty acids.

Always talk to your vet before considering stopping any prescription medications.