What is osteochondrodysplasia in pets?

This A+ FRR Pet Health FAQ discusses osteochondrodysplasia, a range of disorders in dogs and cats characterized by abnormal growth of cartilage and bone, and how pets with this condition are more likely to develop arthritis and joint pain.

Osteochondrodysplasia (osteo - bone, chondro - cartilage, dysplasia - abnormality of development) describes a range of disorders characterized by abnormal growth of cartilage and bone. Most of the disorders classified as osteochondrodysplasias in dogs and cats affect the bones of the limbs. Pets with this condition are more likely to develop arthritis and joint pain.

Osteochondrodysplasia is frequently seen in numerous dog breeds, including Basset Hounds, Daschunds, Alaskan Malamutes, Great Pyrenees, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters, Samoyeds, Norwegian Elkhounds, Samoyeds, and Scottish Deerhounds.

While there is no specific treatment or cure for this disease, intermittent joint pain can be treated with pain killers, anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. buffered aspirin or drugs like Rimadyl), and "Chondroprotective agents" such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to help to correct a deformity.

Flint River Ranch has developed two glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate-fortified products to assist in the possible prevention and holistic treatment of osteochondrodysplasia: our Flint River Ranch PLUS premium pet food and our Jubilee Wafers.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate are naturally occurring nutritional supplements widely recommended for their potential value in helping animals suffering from or genetically predisposed to suffering from arthritis and joint pain, including osteochondrodysplasia. These organic supplements work by minimizing cartilage damage and swelling, increasing joint lubrication, helping to rebuild the cartilage that cushions and protects joints, and enhancing new cartilage production.

Seek veterinary treatment if your pet's condition worsens. With extra care and nutrition, your pet can live a long, happy and virtually pain-free life with osteochondrodysplasia.

Recommended Products:

• Flint River Ranch PLUS Premium Pet Food - Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate-fortified, all natural, oven-baked pet food
• Jubilee Wafers - Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate-fortified dog biscuit treats

Some of the information on osteochondrodysplasia courtesy of the Canine Inherited Disorders Database.

Related terms: osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

FAQs: Pet Health Risks and Remedies