Inflammation, Joint Pain, and Arthritis in Dogs and Cats

Understanding the causes, signs, and natural support strategies

Inflammation and joint disease are among the most common—and most overlooked—health challenges affecting aging dogs and cats.

It’s estimated that around 20% of adult dogs and well over half of senior dogs show signs of arthritis or chronic joint disease. Cats are affected even more often, despite being far less likely to show it—studies suggest 60–90% of cats over the age of 12 have some degree of degenerative joint disease.

While aging does increase risk, chronic inflammation and arthritis are not simply inevitable. With thoughtful nutrition, lifestyle support, and the right ingredients, many pets can remain comfortable, mobile, and active well into their senior years.

What Is Inflammation—and Why Does It Matter?

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, stress, or irritation. Short-term inflammation is protective. Long-term, unresolved inflammation becomes destructive.

Chronic, low-grade inflammation contributes to:

• Joint degeneration and cartilage breakdown

• Pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion

• Slower tissue repair

• Acceleration of age-related disease

In dogs and cats, chronic inflammation is often influenced by:

• Poor fatty acid balance

• Excess body weight

• Repetitive joint stress or old injuries

• Age-related cartilage wear

• In some cases, immune dysregulation

Managing inflammation isn’t just about pain relief—it’s about slowing progression and protecting joint integrity.

How Do I Know If My Pet Has Joint Pain or Arthritis?

Dogs and cats instinctively hide discomfort. Early signs are often subtle and easy to miss.

Common Signs in Dogs

• Slowing down on walks

• Hesitation to jump or climb

• Stiffness after rest

• Limping or uneven gait

• Reduced interest in play

Common Signs in Cats

• Jumping less often or choosing lower surfaces

• Difficulty entering the litter box

• Reduced grooming

• Irritability or withdrawal

• Sleeping more, moving less

Because these signs develop gradually, joint disease is often well underway before it’s recognized—making early, proactive support essential.

Foundational Ways to Support Joint Health

Before supplements, foundations matter.

1. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Excess weight increases mechanical stress on joints. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve comfort and mobility.

2. Encourage Consistent, Natural Movement

Regular low-impact movement supports circulation, joint lubrication, and muscle tone.

3. Nail Maintenance Matters

Overgrown nails alter joint alignment, contributing to pain throughout the limbs and spine. Proper nail length is a surprisingly powerful joint-support tool.

Key Ingredients That Support Inflammation and Joint Health

(And where they naturally appear in our long-term support options)

Ingredients matter more than labels. Below are evidence-informed compounds used to support joints, inflammation, and connective tissue health.

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Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA)

Foundational support for nearly every joint protocol

Omega-3s help regulate inflammatory pathways and support joint comfort and mobility. They are especially important because many modern diets are disproportionately high in omega-6 fats, which can promote inflammation when unbalanced.

This is often the first and most important addition to a joint-support plan.

Green-Lipped Mussel

Whole-food joint nourishment

Green-lipped mussel provides a unique combination of:

• Omega-3s

• Glycosaminoglycans

• Antioxidants

It’s commonly used to support joint comfort, cartilage health, and mobility—particularly in pets with early to moderate arthritis.

MSM, Glucosamine & Structural Joint Support

For maintenance and early intervention

These compounds help support cartilage resilience and joint lubrication:

• Glucosamine supports cartilage repair

• MSM provides sulfur for connective tissue

• Hyaluronic acid supports joint fluid viscosity

Joint Maintain also includes kelp, desiccated liver, Boswellia, magnesium, and vitamin E—making it well suited for ongoing, preventative support or mild discomfort.

Boswellia & Curcumin

Targeted inflammatory balance

Boswellia and curcumin are widely studied plant compounds used to support inflammatory regulation—particularly in pets experiencing stiffness or reduced mobility.

Because curcumin has low natural bioavailability, high-quality extracts and proper formulation matter.

Advanced Support for Moderate to Severe Joint Pain

Joint Recovery builds on foundational support with:

• High-potency curcumin (95%)

• Boswellia serrata

• MSM & glucosamine

• Green-lipped mussel

• Hyaluronic acid

• Amino acids (L-lysine, L-glutamine) to support muscle and collagen integrity

This level of support is often appropriate for pets with established arthritis, previous injuries, or chronic inflammation.

Collagen & Connective Tissue Support

Collagen provides structural amino acids that support:

• Tendons and ligaments

• Joint capsules

• Skin and connective tissue

Collagen works synergistically with joint supplements and is especially useful in aging pets or those recovering from orthopedic stress.

CBD for Pain Modulation & Nervous System Support

CBD may help support:

• Pain signaling modulation

• Inflammatory balance

• Stress and nervous system regulation

When sourced responsibly and used appropriately, CBD can be a valuable adjunct for pets with chronic discomfort or inflammation-related stress.

Gentle, Acute Support for Strains or Setbacks

This botanical formula includes ingredients such as arnica, calendula, symphytum, and ruta—traditionally used to support the body following minor strains, sprains, or flare-ups, especially alongside a broader joint protocol.

Prevention Is Easier Than Repair

Joint support is most effective when introduced:

• Before significant cartilage loss

• At the first signs of stiffness

• As a long-term strategy, not a reactionary fix

Early support helps preserve mobility, confidence, and independence.

Final Thoughts

Arthritis and inflammation may be common, but they should never be dismissed as “just aging.”

With appropriate nutrition, weight management, movement, and thoughtfully chosen ingredients, dogs and cats can maintain comfort and mobility far longer than many expect.

Healthy joints aren’t about chasing youth—they’re about protecting function, dignity, and quality of life.