Keeping Pets Moving: Managing Arthritis with Comfort and Care at TLC Pet Nursing Hotel
As pets age, it’s common for them to slow down—but what many pet parents don’t realize is that this slowdown could be a sign of arthritis in dogs and cats, not just old age. At Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel in Topeka, Kansas, we specialize in caring for senior pets and special-needs dogs and cats, and pet arthritis is one of the most common conditions we see. The good news? With personalized, compassionate care, arthritic pets can still live joyful, comfortable, and active lives.
What Is Arthritis in Pets?
Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that leads to joint inflammation, stiffness, and
chronic pain. It’s especially common in older dogs and cats, but can also affect younger
animals with past injuries or joint abnormalities. As cartilage wears down over time, the
bones rub together, causing discomfort and limited mobility.
Common Signs of Arthritis in Dogs and Cats
Pets are masters at hiding pain. Instead of whining or crying, they may show more subtle
signs. Watch for:
- Hesitation to jump onto furniture or into the car
- Difficulty rising from rest
- Limping or favoring one leg
- Avoiding stairs or play
- Decreased activity or enthusiasm
- Licking, chewing, or biting at joints
- Mood changes, irritability, or avoidance of touch
For cats with arthritis, signs can include:
- No longer jumping to high surfaces
- Matted or greasy fur due to grooming difficulties
- Skipping the litter box (especially if it has high sides)
- Stiff movements after naps
- Increased hiding or sensitivity when touched
How Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel Supports Arthritic Pets
At TLC, we offer specialized arthritis care for pets in a boutique setting that emphasizes
comfort, dignity, and emotional wellbeing. Here’s how we help:
1. Supportive Orthopedic Pet Beds
We use Big Barker orthopedic dog beds that provide firm, joint-supporting comfort to
reduce pain and help pets get up easily. For cats, we provide soft, warm bedding that’s easy
to reach and encourages restful sleep.
2. Mobility Assistance with Wagons, Ramps, and Strollers
Some of our mobility-impaired dogs are unable to walk long distances. That’s why we use
pet strollers and wagons to give them access to potty breaks and fresh air. For dogs who
need help navigating steps, we use a ramp to support safe movement in and out of the
building.
3. Calm, Low-Stress Environment
We maintain a quiet, anxiety-free boarding space with soft music, gentle lighting, and
reduced stimulation. Stress can amplify pain, so our environment promotes both physical
and emotional healing.
4. Tailored Activities and Gentle Movement
Our team creates custom care plans for each guest. Depending on the pet’s needs, we offer
short walks, brain games, or quiet time. Enrichment is important—even for arthritic
pets—and we adapt it for comfort.
5. Pain Management and Medication Administration
Many of our guests take arthritis medications, pain relief, or joint supplements like
glucosamine. Our trained staff administers these carefully and on time, just like you would
at home.
6. Special Care for Arthritic Cats
Cats often suffer silently. At TLC, they enjoy:
- Low-entry litter boxes to reduce pain during bathroom breaks
- Elevated but easily accessible resting areas
- Feline-only suites for a peaceful stay
- Experienced medication administration, including oral and transdermal meds
7. Personalized Observation
Our experienced caregivers monitor each pet for changes in comfort or mobility and keep
pet parents updated. We collaborate with veterinarians when needed to ensure each pet
gets the best arthritis care possible.
Arthritis Care at Home: Tips for Pet Parents
If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with arthritis, there are simple changes you can make
at home to improve their quality of life:
- Choose orthopedic pet beds that offer joint support
- Use pet ramps or stairs to reduce jumping
- Keep nails trimmed to avoid joint strain
- Maintain a healthy weight to ease joint pressure
- Add rugs or yoga mats to slick floors for traction
- Keep pets gently active with short, low-impact activities
- Follow your vet’s advice on pain relief and supplements
Why Pet Parents Trust TLC Pet Nursing Hotel
At TLC, we’re more than just a dog boarding facility or cat daycare—we’re a haven for pets
who need specialized arthritis care. Whether your pet is recovering from surgery, struggling
with mobility, or just needs a little extra support as they age, we’re here with experienced,
loving care and a deep understanding of what arthritic pets need to feel their best.
Book Specialized Care for Your Arthritic Pet
Whether it’s short-term boarding, enrichment daycare, or longer stays for recovery or travel, Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel in Topeka, KS is proud to support arthritic dogs and cats with kindness, expertise, and tailored attention.
Contact us today to learn more about our arthritis-friendly pet boarding services or to schedule a tour.