The short version
The joint cartilage in freely moving joints may degenerate over time, leading to loss of joint movement and, in many cases, pain. This condition is characterized by thinning of cartilage, buildup of fluid within the joint, and the formation of bony outgrowths around the joint. Joint degeneration can be caused by trauma, infection, the body’s own immune system, or malformation during development. This leads to inflammation of the joint membrane, continued cartilage destruction and inflammation, and abnormal joint function.
Signs of osteoarthritis include lameness, joint swelling, wasting away of muscle, and thickening and scarring of the joint membrane.
For More Information
Also see professional content regarding osteoarthritis in small animals.
Frequently asked questions
Osteoarthritis degenerative joint disease in dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. The joint cartilage in freely moving joints may degenerate over time, leading to loss of joint movement and, in many cases, pain. This condition is c… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Degenerative joint disease vs osteoarthritis dog?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. The joint cartilage in freely moving joints may degenerate over time, leading to loss of joint movement and, in many cases, pain. This condition is c… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Degenerative osteoarthritis in dogs?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. The joint cartilage in freely moving joints may degenerate over time, leading to loss of joint movement and, in many cases, pain. This condition is c… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.