Category: Joint care

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Cold weather and your pet’s joints

cold weather and pets joints

Just like with humans, when temperatures dip, cold weather can affect a pet’s joints and cause joint stiffness.

It’s not exactly clear what causes increased joint stiffness during winter months, but there could be several reasons, which include:

Air pressure – a drop in air pressure causes tissues in your pet’s body to swell and make moving more difficult.

Rigid muscles – even in dogs who don’t suffer from joint stiffness, cold temperatures can cause muscles to become tense. For dogs with existing stiffness, this can be hard to manage.

Reduced exercise – freezing temperatures mean staying indoors where it’s warm and cosy is more likely. But dogs with joint stiffness need movement to stretch and warm up their muscles, as this helps to reduce the symptoms.

Support your pet’s joints in winter

In cold weather to help support your pet’s joints, there are some positive things you can do:

Get your pet moving

One of the most important things for dogs with joint stiffness is to exercise. They may not feel like it but getting them up and moving will help to warm up and strengthen your dog’s muscles and reduce stiffness in the joints. Aim to go on a short walk at least once, if not twice a day. If it’s too cold outside try to get your dog moving indoors, using an obstacle course, or hiding some treats around the home.

Weight management

Many pet owners think that during cold weather, pets need extra food to keep warm. However, this is not the case for most pets, especially if they are moving less due to the cold. It’s important to keep an eye on what your pet eats during colder months. Unwanted weight gain can add pressure to joints. If your pet is moving less, make sure they are not taking on more calories. If your pet gets treats, be sure to add them into their daily calorie intake.

Heating pads or blankets

Since the cold temperatures might be making it hard for your pooch to move, especially overnight, try to warm them up using a pet-safe heated blanket or heating pad for them to sleep on. The extra warmth may encourage your dog to get up and moving first thing in the morning. You could also place your pet’s bed closer to a radiator in the home, which may help.

Massage

Gently massaging your dog’s problem areas, like their knees or hips, may help to loosen stiff muscles and make it easier for them to move. Find a pet massage professional in your area or do some research on how to properly administer gentle massages at home. This will help to give your pet a little extra care if they are struggling.

Home adjustments

Use ramps in the home to help your pet get up to their favourite sleeping spot on furniture or to get up steps or into the car for dog walks. This will help to reduce injury from jumping up or down. You could also raise their food and water bowls if they are unable to bend down due to stiff joints.

Use Nutraquin+

Using Nutraquin+ daily will give your pet’s joints the extra support they need throughout the winter months. If your pet isn’t already taking a high-quality joint supplement, winter is a good time to start, to support their joints in cold weather.

Nutraquin+ is fast acting (4-7 days) and formulated using the purest ingredients that help aid and soothe stiff joints and support the natural systems that control inflammation in dogs, cats & horses.

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Exercising your dog in winter

exercising you dog in winter

Some dogs love winter walks, but exercising your dog in winter can be challenging for some pet owners due to cold temperatures.

Despite the cold weather, it’s important to maintain an exercise routine for your dog to keep them happy and healthy. During the winter months, joint stiffness in pets can appear more prominent. Regularly exercising your dog in winter helps to keep joints mobile as well as preventing any weight gain which can add pressure to joints.

To help keep your pooch moving, we share some tips for exercising your dog in winter months:

Walking your dog in cold weather

If your pooch is still happy to head out on winter walks, be sure to wrap up warm and if needed use a doggy coat to keep them cosy. On darker nights and morning, also be sure to wear bright or reflective clothing and walk your dog in well-lit areas. Avoid icy roads and pavements and clean your dog’s paws when you get home to remove and ice, salt or grit which may cause irritation.

Indoor games

If it’s too cold outside for your four-legged friend, there are some indoor games you could try to get them moving, which include:

Tug of war – get your dog a tug of war rope to enjoy a good game with them. If you have more than one dog, you could let them play together. However, be sure to keep an eye on them, as this type of game could encourage aggression.

Fetch – if you have enough space in your home set up an area to play fetch. Make sure it’s on carpeted floors as hard wood floors could cause your dog to slip and get injured. To prevent repetition, throw different objects for them to fetch and return.

Hide and seek– tell your dog to wait somewhere while you hide in the house. Then shout for them to come and find you. You may need someone else to stay with your dog while you go and find a hiding spot. Alternatively, you could hide a toy or their favourite treat somewhere in the home for them to sniff out.

Brain games – interactive brain games are a great way to keep your pet’s brain active as well as maintain their physical activity. Try hiding a treat under a cup and mix it up with other empty cups and get your pooch to try and pick the right one to get the treat.

Indoor obstacle course

If you have the space to do so, it’s possible to create a small obstacle course for your pooch in the home. All you need is a few cones and some items for your dog to jump over.

Hydrotherapy / Swimming

Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs as it’s low impact, which is kinder on their joints. In winter months, it’s not advised to take your dog swimming outdoors, but you could book them into a hydrotherapy session with a qualified trainer at an indoor pool. This will help to ensure your dog gets some much-needed exercise, as well as soothing their stiff joints.

Training classes

Indoor training or agility classes are a great way of exercising your dog in winter, as well as allowing them to socialise with other dogs and boost their brain health.

Some breeds of dog may need more exercise than others. If you are unsure what exercise is best suited for your pooch, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice depending on your pets age and breed.

To help maintain your pet’s joints throughout the winter months, ask your vet about Nutraquin+, a fast-acting support for joints and mobility for dogs and cats.

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Getting the most out of joint supplements for dogs

joint supplements for dogs

Whether you are giving your dog joint supplements to support their stiff old joints or for a puppy that needs support to help maintain their joints as they grow, as pet owners, ensuring your pet’s mobility health is crucial.

On the face of it many joint supplements for dogs and cats can appear good value however, many are very low in strength and contain fillers and unnecessary cheap ingredients meaning to get any real benefit from them you have to take large quantities. The Nutraquin range provides the highest strength products for pets whilst delivering the most affordable price.

It’s important to know exactly what you are giving to your dog; many pet supplements do not state all the ingredients. The Nutraquin range, only contains the highest quality, natural ingredients, which are both ethically and sustainably sourced with the purity levels stated on the packaging, so you know exactly what you are giving your dog.

When should I start giving joint supplements for dogs?

Many pet owners give their pet joint supplements for dogs when they notice them slowing down or struggling with stiff joints. However, joint support products are not just for older dogs, younger pets can also be given them to help maintain their joint health as they grow.

Being proactive and taking steps to maintain your puppy’s health as they grow is a good thing and it means that they’re less likely to develop problems with stiffness and mobility when they get older. Nutraquin includes high purity omega-3s, meaning it is ideal for milder cases, breeds predisposed to joint stiffness and puppies where it can support your puppy’s joints and mobility health as they grow.

How to give your dog supplements

Nutraquin+ are sprinkle capsules, which allow you to open the capsule and sprinkle the contents onto or mix it into your pet’s food. Some pets can be fussy eaters and instantly know something is in their food – we also recommend sprinkling it onto their favourite treat or in something smelly, such as tuna or mackerel.

Nutraquin omega-3 joint support are gel capsules, which are easy to administer to pets. If your pet does not like taking full capsules, then they can be pierced and squeezed into or onto your pet’s food to help with easy administration.

When should you give your dog their joint supplements?

For optimal benefit it’s recommended to give your dog the full dose as recommended by your vet or as per their weight. All capsules should be given at the same time, with food – so either with their morning feed or afternoon, depending on how many times and when you feed your dog during the day.

When should I expect to see results?

Be sure to keep up with the recommended loading dose, unlike other joint supplements for dogs that take up to 6 weeks before you see the benefit, Nutraquin+ are fast acting, with the benefits often seen within 4-7 days.

However, this is an average and is dependent on the animal and level of stiffness or depending on the individual health issue – the recommended loading dose is 6 weeks and by this time you should have started to see noticeable changes.

What’s the difference between Nutraquin and Nutraquin+?

Nutraquin is a prophylactic support for maintaining healthy joints. It is recommended for younger and growing animals that need early-stage support or breeds that are predisposed to joint stiffness.

Nutraquin+ is advanced support for pets showing signs of joint stiffness. It’s ideal for mid-aged and older pets that are showing clinical signs of joint stiffness.

If you are worried about your pet’s health and have spotted that they are slowing down or struggling to jump up on furniture or climb stairs, speak to your vet. Your vet is best placed to monitor their health and can check them for other health issues.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Omega-3 for dog joint health

Omega-3 for dog joint health

Giving your pet an Omega-3 supplement can benefit their overall health as well we specific areas such as joints, skin health and brain function and renal health.

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that the body needs but cannot produce naturally. Omega 3 fish oil can help to reduce the intensity of joint symptoms such as stiffness, tenderness, swelling and discomfort. Omega-3 for dog joint health can increase blood flow throughout the body during exercise, which can help to reduce joint pain and swelling.

One of the main benefits of Omega 3 is its anti-inflammatory properties which can play a role in reducing joint pain. Fish oil contains the Omega 3 fatty acids EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). EPA and DHA play a role in promoting the reduction of inflammation in the joints as well as limiting the production of certain negative proteins that inhibit various types of joint problems.

Studies show that Omega 3 can improve activity and performance in pets with joint stiffness. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce the early signs, for example it keeps collagen and cartilage healthier for longer and helps to give your pet’s joints the shock absorbing properties they need.

EPA and DHA for dogs

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) are both Omega 3 fatty acids, which are found in cold water fish. Omega 3 fatty acids are an essential part of normal metabolism, but they cannot be produced naturally in the body so have to be consumed through diet or supplementation.

EPA and DHA are highly unsaturated fats due to them only containing six and five double bonds on their structural chains. Being unsaturated is an advantage as it makes it easier for the body to break down and utilise the fatty acids.

Make sure you look for Omega-3 supplements which state the EPA & DHA levels on the label, this is a declaration of the purity of the product.

If you are looking for Omega-3 for dog joint health, Nutraquin is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutraquin aids mobility, flexibility and supports joint structure and helps to maintain your pet’s quality of life by maintaining optimum joint health.

 

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Chondroitin for horses

Chondroitin for horses

Chondroitin for horses is an important natural ingredient to help maintain your horses’s joint health.

Chondroitin is a key natural ingredient which helps to maintain synovial fluid viscosity to give extra joint protection and is also an important building block for cartilage.

Chondroitin for horses can come from many sources including fish, pig trachea and bird cartilage. Chondroitin sulphate E from squid cartilage is the most ethically sourced form of chondroitin with independent trail data to support its use. Chondroitin sulphate combined with glucosamine can help to give extra joint protection and has become widely used as a joint supplement for horses.

With many horse joint supplements on the market, it’s difficult to know what’s best for your horse. On the face of it many horse joint supplements can appear good value, however many are low strength. Nutraquin+ equine only contains 100% natural high-quality plant and marine sourced ingredients. It does not contain any animal derived ingredients.

Nutraquin+ equine contains key ingredients to naturally help rebuild joint cartilage and restore joint health. If you’re looking for Chondroitin for horses, Nutraquin+ is recommended by vets worldwide as a fast acting and effective joint supplement for horses.

On the face of it many horse joint supplements can appear good value, however many are very low strength. The Nutraquin range provides the highest strength joint supplements for dogs, cats and horses whilst delivering the most affordable prices.

 

 

 

 

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Chondroitin for dogs and cats

Obesity in dogs is a common problem and like humans, a balanced diet and the right amount of exercise will help to maintain a healthy weight for your dog.

Chondroitin for dogs and cats is important to help maintain your pets optimum joint health as well as maintaining their overall quality of life.

Chondroitin sulphate helps to maintain synovial fluid viscosity to aid joint support and is also an important building block for cartilage. Chondroitin for dogs and cats is an important structural component of cartilage and provides much of its resistance to compression.

Chondroitin can come from many sources including fish, pig trachea and bird cartilage. Chondroitin sulphate E from squid cartilage is the most ethically sourced form of chondroitin with independent trail data to support its use.  As Nutravet is an ethical company, we make sure that our chondroitin is sourced from the most ethical form that being squid cartilage.

Chondroitin sulphate combined with glucosamine for dogs can help to give extra joint protection and is also an important building block for cartilage, as well as supporting joint structure. Teamed with glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate has become widely used as a joint supplement for pets.

Chondroitin supplements

Supplements containing chondroitin and glucosamine are regularly used for pets with joint stiffness and reduced mobility. The right supplement could help to aid your pet’s mobility and support their joint structure. On the face of it many pet joint supplements can appear good value, however many are very low strength. The Nutraquin range provides the highest strength joint supplements for cats and dogs whilst delivering the most affordable prices.

Introducing your pet to a chondroitin supplement, such as Nutraquin+ can help to maintain and build healthy joint tissue. Nutraquin+ is an effective joint supplement for dogs and cats. It’s a fast acting support product containing necessary high strength ingredients that help maintain healthy joint function in dogs, cats and horses whilst supporting the natural systems that control inflammation.

If you are looking for chondroitin for dogs and cats then Nutraquin+ is recommended by vets throughout the UK as fast acting and effective joint supplements for dogs and cats.

 

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Top tips for exercising your cat

exercising your cat

Exercising your cat is important to ensure they have an active and healthy life.  Cats can be very independent and not as easy to exercise as a dog.

Exercising your cat will not only help to prevent weight gain, it can also reduce stress. Keeping your cat active will also help to maintain optimum joint health and keep your cat mobile as they age. Spending around 10-15 minutes a few times each day playing and engaging with your cat will make a huge difference.

To help with exercising your cat and keep them active, there are some positive things you can do which include:

Plenty of toys

Cats tend to keep to themselves entertained more than dogs, so make sure you leave plenty of toys around for your cat to play with. Introduce new ones occasionally to keep them interested. You can also play with your cat with the toys, rather than leaving them to it.

Take them on the lead

Believe it or not, it is possible to walk your cat on a lead like you would a dog. With proper training, you can encourage your cat to tolerate lead walking. It is best to introduce them to the lead early on at young age, as this will make training easier. Be sure to let your cat get used to the lead and harness prior to attempting to take them outside.

Agility course

If your cat is particularly energetic and mobile, you could try agility exercises. These could include obstacles such as bars to jump over, or tunnels to go through. These will help to push your cat both physically and mentally.

Laser pens

These are great for exercising your cat moving. Used carefully they can encourage your cat to jump around and get energetic. Be careful not to point the laser directly in your cat’s face and be sure to make room for your cat to move around without knocking anything over.

Make them work for treats

Get your cat moving and working for their treats. Put them high up on a cat tower, or inside toys to really make them have to play to get their treat.

When exercising your cat consider their age and ability

Always consider your cat’s ability before trying something new. Older cats may not be as mobile and may not be able to jump too high or move around as much. Kittens may be happy to find their own entertainment, however older cats may need encouragement. Younger cats will also be able to exercise for longer than senior cats, so don’t push your elderly cat to do too much.

Outdoor enclosure

An outdoor enclosure in your garden would give your cat the benefit of being outdoors, but in the safety of the enclosure.

 

Before exercising your cat, speak to your vet if you are unsure about how much and the types of exercise your cat should do. Your vet is best placed to monitor your cat’s health and offer advice dependent on their needs.

To support your cat’s mobility, consider using Nutraquin+, which contains the necessary high strength natural ingredients that help to maintain healthy joint function in dogs, cats and horses, whilst supporting the natural systems that control inflammation. For kittens you could use Nutraquin, which supports joint structure and promotes optimum joint heath during growth.

 

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Top tips for exercising your dog

exercising your dog

Regularly exercising your dog is important to ensure they stay active and mobile and it is important for their wellbeing and quality of life.

Exercising your dog not only relieves stress, it can also prevent weight gain and benefit their mental wellbeing. The amount of exercise your dog needs will depend on their breed, age and health. If you are unsure, speak to your vet who will be able to offer advice on this.

Bored dogs can be unhappy and may show their frustration through a number of ways, such as destructive behaviour, constant barking and toileting in the house. If your dog is left alone for the majority of the day, it is especially important to ensure that they get some exercise prior to being left and when you return.

To help maintain your dog’s health and wellbeing here are some top tips for exercising your dog:

Walking

Walks with your dog not only benefits them but can also help to get yourself active too. Varied walks can be good for you and your dog. This is where you speed walk for about 30 seconds, walk at a normal pace for about a minute and then speed up again. You can do this randomly throughout your walk.

Variation

Try to vary your walks by going on different routes. This will help to keep your daily walk interesting and exciting for your dog.

Let them sniff

Always let your dog have a good sniff around whilst out on walks. This is really important for their mental health.

Don’t throw sticks

When exercising your dog outdoors, try not to throw sticks for your dog to chase. They could splinter and injure your dog’s mouth and throat.  If you throw a ball, be sure it’s not too small so they don’t swallow it. You could use items such as a Frisbee, which are too big to swallow or get stuck in their mouth.

Interactive toys

Interactive feeding toys are a great way to help your dog burn extra calories. These can also keep your dog occupied and prevent boredom if they have to be left home alone.

Jumping

For more mobile dogs, you can use objects such as hula-hoops to get them moving. Hold it just off the ground and encourage your dog to jump through. Once they have mastered it you could increase the height off the ground. Be sure to give them lots of praise and encouragement.

Don’t miss a walk

If you are unable to walk your dog for some reason, ask a friend to take them or a professional dog-walker. Make sure your dog keeps up with his routine and does not miss out on their daily walk.

Consider their age

Younger dogs will be faster and more mobile than older dogs, so bear this in mind when on walks or during exercise, don’t push your dog too much if they are struggling. Older dogs may struggle with mobility and joint stiffness so may be better with shorter walks more often.

Jogging

Taking your dog along on your daily jog can be a great way to get them moving, as well as yourself. However, jogging is not recommended for puppies or larger breeds of dogs, as it can impact their joints.

Restrictions

Some dogs may need restrictive exercise. For example, if they have stiff joints they may require short frequent walks rather than one long walk. You may consider Nutraquin+ to aid and soothe stiff joints, as well as aiding your dog’s mobility and flexibility.

Stick to it

It’s important for your dog to stick to an exercise routine. This is particularly important for older and overweight dogs.

Mealtimes

Try to avoid exercising your dog immediately before and after mealtimes. A full stomach combined with walking or running may cause them to have a sensitive tummy.

Whatever the weather

Make sure you walk your dog no matter the weather. Most dogs are happy to go out come rain or shine. Just be sure to consider the weather when planning your walk, for example in hot weather, walk your dog at cooler times of the day.

 

If you are unsure about the amount or types of exercise your dog should have, speak to your vet who is best placed to monitor your dog’s health and offer advice dependent on their age and health needs.

To support your dog’s mobility, consider using Nutraquin+, which contains the necessary high strength natural ingredients that help to maintain healthy joint function in dogs, cats and horses, whilst supporting the natural systems that control inflammation. For puppies you could use Nutraquin, which supports joint structure and aids optimum joint heath during growth.

 

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Top tips to maintain optimum joint health for dogs

joint health for dogs

It is important to maintain joint health for dogs to ensure that they can lead a happy and healthy life with you. Their mobility can greatly affect their quality of life with even the smallest of tasks like getting into the car, or bending down to their food bowl being a task.

There are a number of reasons for reduced mobility in your dog, including cold weather and old age. As dogs age, they can be more prone to joint stiffness and reduced mobility, so it’s essential to support and maintain their health throughout their life.

To help maintain their quality of life, there are positive things you can do to manage joint health for dogs, which include:

Gentle exercise

It is important that your pet gets regular exercise to avoid stiffness and muscle wastage. Avoid long or infrequent walks and make sure your dog goes for several, short walks throughout the day. Think little and often to keep the joints mobile.

Watch their weight

Overweight dogs can be more prone to joint stiffness and reduced mobility. Excess weight can add pressure to their joints. Read our top tips to maintain a healthy weight for your dog.

Comfort

Provide your dog with a warm and comfy bed. Be sure to provide them with plenty of bedding to pad around their joints. If their bed is usually on a tiled floor, move it to a room that is carpeted.

Food and water

Your dog may struggle to put their neck down for their food or water bowl. To help make them more comfortable, raise their bowls onto a small step or box.

Visit your vet

Regular vet visits ensure that your dog’s joints can be monitored. It is important to have regular health checks with your local vet to ensure your dog is receiving the best possible care.

Key nutrients for joint health for dogs

Boswellia extract is a natural alternative to support your dog’s natural systems that control inflammation and helps to aid mobility, flexibility and supports joint structure. Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin Sulphate, are also essential for maintaining healthy joints.

Alternative therapies

You could consider other therapies to help your dog, such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. These can help to increase circulation and mobility in your pet.

Speak to your vet about any of the above as your vet is best placed to monitor your dog’s health. If you are looking for joint supplements for dogs, Nutraquin+, is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutraquin+ is a fast acting joint support to help maintain healthy joint function in dogs whilst supporting he natural systems that control inflammation.

 

 

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Top tips to maintain healthy joint function in horses

Maintain healthy joint function in horses

It’s crucial to maintain healthy joint function in horses because their weight bearing joints get little relief from constant pressure.

The areas most commonly affected by joint stiffness in horses are the knee joint, front fetlocks, hocks and coffin joints which can be uncomfortable for your horse when the joint is flexed. It’s important to maintain healthy joint function in horses to enable them to enjoy their life to the full and for their joints to function properly.

Horses often develop stiff joints as they age, but younger and growing animals can also have joint stiffness. Performance horses in particular can put a lot of strain on their legs as they run, jump, spin or pull carriages.

Common signs your horse has joint stiffness include:

  • Your horse may appear stiff and awkward initially and improving as they warm up.
  • Your horse may have a reluctance to perform certain movements.
  • Your horse may experience stiffness after sleeping or prolonged standing.

As their owner, you will be able to recognise a change in behaviour and activity level. To help to maintain healthy joint function in horses, here are some positive things you can do.

Regular exercise

Introduce regular exercise tailored to your horse. Exercise increases joint fluid circulation and tones the muscles. Fitter horses have thicker and healthier cartilage covering their joints.

Maintain a healthy weight

Overweight horses require more attention to their joint health. Excess weight can add more stress to your horse’s joints as well as increase wear-and-tear. Consult your vet who can advise a suitable diet for your horse’s needs to help maintain a healthy weight.

Key nutrients

Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin Sulphate are essential to maintain healthy joints. A natural alternative can be found in Boswellia Extract, which supports the natural systems that control inflammation and aids mobility, flexibility and supports joint structure.

Stretching exercises

Always make a habit of doing stretching exercises with your horse along with a good warm up before any exercise. This will help to increase blood flow and warm up and soften muscles and ligaments.

Shoeing

Be sure to keep your horse well shod, as well balanced feet will help to reduce the stress on lower limb joints. Your farrier will be able to help to ensure that your horse’s shoes are comfortable and a good fit.

Reduce concussion

To help maintain healthy joint function in horses, it is recommended to try and avoid work on hard ground as this will reduce concussion to the joints and help to maintain optimum joint mobility.

Nutritional joint supplement

Take advantage of the benefits of a high strength, natural and fast acting joint support product such as Nutraquin+ to help rebuild joint cartilage and maintain optimum joint health. Giving your horse Nutraquin+ will not only aid mobility, it will also soothe stiff joints.

 

If you’re worried about your horse’s joint health, you should speak to your vet who will be able to advise the best course of action and provide support. Ask your vet about Nutraquin+, our fast acting natural joint health product. Nutraquin+ is specifically formulated to maintain healthy joint function with the added advantages of Boswellia Extract, which supports the natural systems that control inflammation.

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Top tips to maintain optimum joint health for cats

joint health for cats

Maintaining optimum joint health for cats is key if they are going to live a happy and healthy life. Cat owners often mistake joint stiffness for their cat simply getting older.

Although cats do usually get joint stiffness more as they get older, there are other reasons for this to happen. If your cat is overweight or has a broken bone or trauma, this could reduce mobility and managing joint health for cats is key to reduce stiffness.

During the colder months, joint stiffness will appear more apparent, as the cold can aggravate joints. As a cat owner you will be able to understand and spot behavioural change in your cat, but there are common signs to look out for which include:

  • A reluctance to jump up on furniture or struggle to go up stairs.
  • You may notice that they sleep more and play or go out less.
  • Your cat may not groom themselves as much as usual.
  • They may be irritable when handled.
  • Your cat may find it hard to get into a comfortable position when sleeping.

To help with your cat’s mobility and to ensure they maintain a healthy life, there are positive things you can do, which include:

Visit your vet regularly

This will ensure that your cat’s joints can be monitored. Your vet will also be able to advise the best course of action moving forward, as they are the best resource to safeguard the health and wellbeing of your cat. Ask your vet about using a high-quality joint supplement such as Nutraquin+, which can help to maintain healthy joint function for your cat.

Managing their weight

If your cat is overweight this could cause unnecessary strain on their joints. Weight gain is a major aggravating factor for joints, so it’s important to keep a check on your cat’s weight to ensure this stays at a normal level and doesn’t add any unwanted pressure to their joints. Feed your cat a good quality diet to prevent any unnecessary weight gain.

Key nutrients

Boswellia extract is a natural alternative to support your cat’s natural systems that control inflammation and helps to aid mobility, flexibility and supports joint structure. Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin Sulphatejoint health for cats, are also essential for maintaining joint health for cats.

Move food bowls

If your cat is usually fed on a high surface, move their food and water bowl to a more accessible place, so that they do not have to jump up to get it. Also make sure that they have easy access to their litter tray, which they may struggle to get in and out of.

Bedding

Make sure your cat has a warm and comfy place to sleep with plenty of bedding. Extra bedding could be used to add padding around sore joints. Move their bed from a cold floor to a warm carpeted room, as the cold surface could aggravate them. You cat may seek out warm spots around the house to soothe joints, so you could move their bed close to radiators or warm spots to help.

Exercise

Your cat needs an appropriate amount of exercise to keep their joints mobile. It is important to maximise the range of movement and fitness of the muscles around the joints. Slow and gentle play can be helpful but should be introduced gradually. Try to avoid any vigorous play sessions that involve leaping, jumping or turning.

Grooming

If their joints are especially stiff, your cat may not be able to reach certain areas to groom or they could stop grooming altogether. You could help by brushing your cat, which will also help to keep their coat shiny and healthy.

 

To help maintain your cat’s joint health and mobility, consult your vet, who is best placed to offer advice and the best course of action. Ask your vet about using a high-quality joint supplement such as Nutraquin+, which is specifically formulated to help to maintain healthy joint function for your cat. Find out more about Nutraquin+.

 

 

 

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Top tips to manage joint health for pets

joint health for pets

Maintaining excellent joint health for pets is essential to ensure they lead a good quality of life.

There are a number of reasons why you should manage joint health for pets, which include, old age, being overweight, as well as trauma or injury. Joint stiffness tends to occur more often as your pet ages with dogs being more susceptible. However, young dogs can also develop joint stiffness. Some large breeds of dog in particular, are more prone to developing joint stiffness.

During the colder months, joint stiffness can appear more pronounced in your pet. They may need support when bending down to their food bowl and may not jump up as much. It is especially important to support joints in senior pets, as they may feel the cold more. If your pet has had any broken bones, this may also mean they are more sensitive to the cold.

There are common signs to look out for which include:

  • Your pet may like resting more following exercise.
  • Your cat may sleep a lot and not play or go out as much as you would expect.
  • They may avoid performing certain tasks, such as jumping into the car or onto a chair.
  • Your pet’s may seem irritable or sometimes aggressive.
  • Your pet might seek out warm spots around the house, such as sunny areas, heat vents or near to radiators.

The mobility of your pet’s joints can have a dramatic impact on their quality of life, it can even affect your pet’s sleep. To help maintain optimum joint health pets, here are some positive things you can do:

Manage their weight

Excess weight can put pressure on joints, aim to reduce your cat or dog’s weight and keep them at a healthy weight for their breed and age. Speak to your vet before starting your pet on a diet, they can offer advice on the best way forward.

Exercise

It is important that your pet gets regular exercise to avoid stiffness and muscle wastage. Avoid long or infrequent walks and make sure your dog goes for several, short walks throughout the day. Think little and often to keep the joints mobile.

Diet

Feed your pet a good quality diet. Reassess your pet’s food and consult a veterinary professional who can recommend the best diet for their needs. Where appropriate raise water and food bowls so your dog or cat doesn’t have to bend down to them.

Comfort

Keep your pet warm and avoid cold and drafty or damp conditions that can aggravate joints. Provide a cosy warm place to sleep with enough room to find a comfortable position. Add extra bedding for senior pets and shorthaired dogs to help pad around their joints. Try to limit stair use and jumping on or off furniture

Grooming

Help to groom your pet when their joints become stiff as they may not be able to groom as freely.

Use ramps around the home

Continuously jumping on furniture or in and out of the car can easily cause injury. Install pet-friendly ramps to reduce the jumping and any damage to their joints.

Joint Supplementation

Your vet may recommend a natural supplement like Nutraquin+, which aids joint stiffness and supports the natural systems that control inflammation.

Key nutrients

Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin Sulphate are essential for maintaining healthy joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and synovial fluid. Boswellia Extract supports the body’s natural anti-inflammatory process and plays an important role in maintaining smooth and comfortable joint movement.

Visit your vet

Regular vet visits ensure your pet’s joints can be monitored frequently and the best up-to-date advice can be given. Ensure you follow your vet’s advice.

Alternative solutions

You could consider alternative methods to help your dog or cat, such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. These can help to increase circulation and mobility in your pet.

If you are concerned about joint health for pets, consult your vet as they are best placed to offer advice and the best solution with regards to your pet’s health needs. Ask your vet about Nutraquin+, which is specifically formulated to offer natural joint support to cats and dogs. It contains high quality key nutrient that are essential for maintaining healthy joints.

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Common signs of a dog with stiff joints

dog with stiff joints

A dog with stiff joints may need extra support to help manage their overall health and wellbeing.

As a pet owner you recognise your pet’s normal behaviour and notice if they are not their usual self. Maintaining optimum joint health is important for your pet’s quality of life. All pets can develop stiff joints, but it is more common in older dogs and cats. This can be more common in winter months, as cold weather can aggravate joints.

Maintaining the health of a dog with stiff joints can make everyday tasks such as going on walks or having a comfy nights sleep easier to perform.

There are some common signs of a dog with stiff joints, which could include:

•    Reluctant to jump up and down from surfaces or furniture
•    Slow going up or down stairs and getting in and out of the car
•    Stiffness when getting up in the morning or after sleeping
•    They may lick or bite at their joints
•    They may need their food or water bowl raising off the ground
•    They may lag behind on walks
•    Your dog may no longer run to greet you
•    Your pet may seem quieter than usual
•    They might interact less with the family
•    Your dog may act defensively, get irritable or growl if touched
•    Have difficulty getting through the dog/cat flap
•    Sleeping or resting in easier to reach places
•    Your cat may spend less time hunting or will go outdoors less frequently
•    Your cat’s fur may become matted in hard to reach areas
•    They may become more irritable when stroked or handled

If you think your pet may need support for their joints or your are just generally concerned about your pet’s joints, contact your vet who is best placed to monitor your pet’s health needs. They can give you the best possible advice specific to your pet’s age and health needs.

Nutraquin+ has a unique formula specifically developed to aid and soothe stiff joints in dogs and cats, as well as promoting mobility and flexibility. Ask you vet for more information on ways to help your dog or cat and how Nutraquin+ can help.

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Concerned about your pet’s joints?

As a pet owner you will understand the normal behaviour patterns exhibited by your pet and looking out for signs where your pet needs further support for its natural health.

Maintaining optimum joint health is important for a pet’s quality of life, thus supporting your pet with a vet recommended joint supplement such as Nutraquin will help to aid and soothe stiff joints, aids flexibility and support your pet’s joint structure.

Supplementation is also of benefit because as animals get older, the everyday pressures and stresses on joints can increase. For example the production of glucosamine slows down, which is an essential building block of many parts of an animal’s joints, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage and synovial fluid. It helps cartilage to act as a shock absorber thus aiding joints.

What to look for in your pet and when joint support might be useful:

  • Stiffness – especially after a period of rest following exercise.
  • Slow performing certain tasks (such as jumping into the car or onto a chair).
  • Cats not grooming themselves or eating.
  • Personality changes.

Talk to your vet if you are concerned about your pet’s joint health. Your vet can carry out a thorough clinical examination to assess your pet and decide on an appropriate product and support programme.

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Possible signs your pet may need joint support

Possible signs your pet may need joint support

Below are some common behavioural changes that may occur if your pet is struggling with its joints.

  • Is your pet having difficulty jumping up/down from surfaces or furniture? Going up and down stairs? Or getting in or out of the car?
  • Is your dog stiff when getting up in the morning or after sleeping?
  • Does your dog lick their joints?
  • Does your dog have difficulty reaching down to their food or water bowl?
  • Has your dog slowed down on walks? Or started lagging behind?
  • Does your dog still run to greet you?
  • Does your dog seem quieter than usual? Are they interacting less with the family?
  • Does your dog act defensively, get irritable or growl if touched?
  • Does your pet have difficulty getting through the cat flap?
  • Is your pet sleeping or resting more than usual?
  • Is your cat sleeping in easier to reach places?
  • Is your cat spending less time hunting or going outdoors less frequently?
  • Is your cat’s fur becoming matted in hard to reach areas?
  • Is your cat more irritable when stroked/handled? Avoiding contact with the family and/or other pets?

If you think your pet is in need of a joint supplement for dogs or cats or are just generally concerned about your pet’s joint health, always contact your vet who can give you the best possible advice specific to your pet’s health needs.

 

 

 

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What to look for when buying pet joint supplements

pet joint supplement

With so many pet joint supplements on the market, it’s difficult to know what to look for when buying one for dogs and cats.

We’ve created this simple reference guide to help you understand what to look for when buying pet joint supplements for your four-legged friend:

Compare admin price per day – not price per capsule

On the face of it many pet joint supplements can appear good value, however many are very low in strength. It’s important to compare the milligrams (mg) strength of a product and how many mg’s each capsule/tablet delivers for the required need, as often many more capsules/tablets are required for a true comparison. By comparing the mg strength of a product and how many mg’s each capsule/tablet delivers for the admin price/day the true value of a product will be determined.

Purity of the product

Ensure products contain 100% active ingredients without any added bulking agents or fillers. You need to know exactly what a product contains. Avoid land animal sourced ingredients as they are cheap alternatives to marine or plant sourced ingredients. Always ensure ingredients are ethically sourced. Also ensure a product is made in the UK to the latest EU regulations and manufactured to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.

Guaranteed label claim

A respectable company will guarantee their label claim by stating the percentage purity (%) of their key active ingredients so you can be assured of consistent product quality and efficacy. There are only a handful of companies who will guarantee this.

Capsules over tablets

Tablets need to be bulked out with high fat binding agents thus reducing the purity of the product. Many overweight animals require pet joint supplements therefore it is counterproductive to feed them a high fat ‘treat’. Sprinkle capsules are low in fat and are more flexible for administration, look for sprinkle capsules that contain 100% active ingredient.

Independent trial data

Beware of company funded trial data where a biased outcome is always likely to be published. Always seek independent trial data which will provide an unbiased evaluation of ingredients and benefits.

Customer AND Veterinary Practice testimonials

Whilst you would expect a number of positive reviews from pet owners, a good measure of a joint supplement’s real value is whether Veterinary Professionals also believe in the product and are prepared to put their name to it.

Exclusivity to Veterinary Practices

Your vet understands your pet’s medical history better than anyone and is able to offer their best advice and provide the most appropriate one-to-one care for your pet. They are able to recommend the best possible products for your pet’s needs while also managing your pet’s health on a regular basis.

Find out more about Nutraquin and Nutraquin+ our high strength joint supplement for pets

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Understanding pet joint health

pet joint health

Understanding pet joint health can help to ensure your dog or cat’s mobility is managed well and they can lead a happy and healthy life.

Pet joint health can be complicated as joints are amazing pieces of biological engineering. They allow varying degrees of movement between bones in the body.

In reality, the design of joints differ in different parts of the body from the spine to the stifle (knee) or from the cranium to the carpus (wrist). The important components of a joint are given in the diagram below:

All movement in the body requires energy to produce an impulse or signal to be sent along a nerve to cause a muscle to contract. For example, for the blink of an eye or the heart to beat.

For locomotor movement, skeletal muscles have firm attachments via their tendons beyond the joints that are required to move. The joint’s direction of movement is dictated by the shapes of the bone ends that fit together and the joint is stabilised by the attachment of ligaments. Lubrication and friction free movement of the joint is essential and this is facilitated by two very important components of the joint: the articular cartilage and the synovial fluid.

Because of the complexity of joints and how easily they can be affected by every day use, it’s important to maintain them with the necessary nutrients and care to maintain their flexibility, mobility and comfort.

Supplements for pet joint health

Nutraquin+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. It aids and soothes stiff joints whilst promoting mobility and flexibility. It is especially useful as not only does it support joint structure and help maintain optimum joint health but it is fast acting.

If you are worried about your pet’s joint health, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice and monitor their joints with regular visits to the vet practice.

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Glucosamine for dogs and cats

Glucosamine for dogs

Glucosamine for dogs and cats is a key ingredient, which can help to naturally maintain optimum joint health.

Glucosamine is naturally found within the body of animals. It is needed to produce glycosaminoglycan (a molecule used in the formation and regeneration of cartilage and other body tissues). As animals get older the production of Glucosamine slows down thus supplementing with glucosamine for dogs and cats is important to help maintain the necessary levels needed to support healthy joint function, whilst promoting mobility, flexibility and aiding stiff joints.

Glucosamine is an essential building block of many parts of a dog’s joints, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage and synovial fluid. It helps cartilage to act as a shock absorber.

Glucosamine is an amino sugar made from shellfish or prepared in a lab. There are two forms: Glucosamine Sulphate and Glucosamine Hydrochloride (HCL). Glucosamine HCL is the highest quality, purest form of Glucosamine, it is more stable and occurs naturally in every living organism. Glucosamine HCL has more pure Glucosamine per gram for aiding cartilage formation.

Glucosamine for dogs and cats

Introducing a dog joint supplement that includes pure Glucosamine HCL, such as Nutraquin+ can help to maintain and build healthy joint tissue. Glucosamine when combined with Chondroitin Sulphate – a molecule naturally present in cartilage that gives cartilage elasticity and is believed to help maintain healthy cartilage and synovial fluid viscosity – can help to give extra joint protection and is also an important building block for cartilage, as well as supporting joint structure.

If you are looking for a glucosamine supplement for dogs then Nutraquin+ is an effective fast acting joint supplement for dogs and cats. Nutraquin+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Nutraquin+ includes a combination of glucosamine for dogs and chondroitin, as well as Boswellia Extract, which helps to maintain your pet’s quality of life by maintaining optimum joint health.

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Boswellia for dogs, cats and horses

Boswellia for dogs and cats

Boswellia for dogs and cats plays an important role in maintaining healthy joint function, which can impact a pet’s everyday life.

Boswellia has been used for thousands of years and has over 400 independent clinical studies supporting its use. It has long been recognised for its fast acting support to the natural systems that control inflammation. Boswellia trees are native to North Africa and India, the particular species Boswellia serrata only grows in mountainous forests of western and central India.

The resin that is secreted naturally to protect the Boswellia tree is tapped and purified for use in powder form. This gum tree resin consists of essential oils, gum, and terpenoids. The terpenoid portion contains the boswellic acids that have been shown to be the active constituents within Boswellia.

According to early Ayurvedic texts, Boswellia was used in a number of areas such as: joint, respiratory and digestive support. More recent clinical studies have shown the efficacy of Boswellia for many more traditional uses.

The inclusion of Boswellia in nutraceutical joint support supplements for dogs and cats such as Nutraquin+ plays an important role in maintaining smooth and comfortable joint movement. Unlike some other alternative ingredients it does not cause damage to cartilage. Its use has yielded impressive research results.

This is because Boswellia:

  • Is not reported to have side effects even with long-term administration;
  • Does not cause glycosaminoglycan degradation, stomach irritation and joint degradation;
  • Is believed to maintain a healthy level of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) activity, supporting leukotriene biosynthesis and thus helping to preserve the structural integrity of joint cartilage and maintaining a healthy immune mediator cascade.

In addition, Boswellia is believed to play a role in maintaining healthy matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, which supports connective tissue structural composition. MMPs, are a large group of (zinc dependant) enzymes which cleave the constituents of the extracellular matrix and are thought to play a role in joint destruction.

Boswellia for dogs, cats and horses

Boswellia is a key ingredient in Nutraquin+ and Nutramed which are natural joint supplements for dogs, cats and horses, which contain the necessary high quality ingredients that help to maintain healthy joint function.

Benefits of Boswellia for joints:

  • Helps to maintain smooth and comfortable joint movement.
  • Will not cause damage to cartilage.
  • No reported side effects with long-term administration.
  • Does not cause glycosaminoglycan degradation, stomach irritation and joint degradation.
  • Helps to preserve the structural integrity of joint cartilage.

 

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Milk Thistle for dogs and cats

Milk Thistle for dogs and cats

Milk Thistle for dogs and cats is a key natural ingredient to support elderly pets due to its multi-health benefits.

Recent studies have shown to moderate the pro-inflammatory cascade as well as having a beneficial effect on aiding healthy liver function.

The liver is an important organ for pets. It has a number of important jobs to do, which include digestion and producing protein that is important for blood clotting, as well as removing toxins from their system. If a dog’s liver is not working properly, it might mean that they could benefit from extra support.

Signs that your dog may need liver support include:

  • Poor appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Increased thirst
  • Excessive drooling
  • Changes in their behaviour
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Lack of energy or depression

If your dog is showing any of these signs, it’s important to consult your vet, who will be able to offer the best advice with regards to your pet’s health needs.

The benefits of Milk Thistle for dogs, cats and horses

Milk Thistle is a plant from the daisy family. It is a bristly and prickly plant with a “milky” sap that comes out of the plant. Its leaves, fruits and seeds have been used for over 2000 years to naturally support joints, soft tissue, liver function, kidneys, and the gall bladder.

Milk Thistle contains an active ingredient called “silymarin” which is a chemical extracted from its seeds. It is an antioxidant and also supports the natural systems that control inflammation making it a useful natural ingredient for joint and liver supplements for dogs and cats. Specifically, silymarin and other related compounds stimulate new cell production, which makes Milk Thistle for dogs and cats a great and very effective herb to support healthy liver function.

Milk Thistle is one of the most effective herbs at stimulating the production and flow of bile, which helps to break down excess fat and prevents it from accumulating in the liver. Bile is also essential for the elimination of toxins in the body.

Why Nutramed is the best supplement for older dogs

Due to it’s benefits, Milk Thistle is one of the key ingredients of Nutramed as part of a combined group of natural ingredients that benefit dogs, cats and horses in need of joint, soft tissue and liver function support. If you are looking for a Milk Thistle supplement for dogs then Nutramed has been specifically formulated by vets to support an animal’s natural systems that control inflammation and provide multi-modal support for joints, soft tissues and liver function.

Nutramed is a particularly useful supplement for older dogs who need multiple health support. Increasingly, nutraceuticals are playing a beneficial multimodal role in aiding recovery, naturally. If you are looking for a natural liver supplement for dogs or cats, then Nutramed is recommended by vets throughout the UK as a triple strength formula and a natural alternative for animal healthcare.