The sedentary lifestyle in pets is often attributed to aging, but current research reveals that the cause may be more concerning. Around 40% of dogs and 60% of cats over six years old suffer from chronic pain, without their owners detecting it. In Argentina, where there are more than 13 million pets, this means that many animals suffer unnecessarily.
Recognizing chronic pain in pets
Lucía Marcerou, a veterinarian at König laboratories, describes chronic pain in pets as a “hidden epidemic.” Signs such as changes in gait and preference for prolonged rest are often mistaken for aging.
Osteoarthritis is a common cause of this persistent pain, along with dental problems, affecting 59% of cats, and other visceral conditions.
In the last ten years, diagnoses of chronic pain in pets have dramatically increased: 66% in dogs and a staggering 150% in cats, according to global veterinary industry data.
Traditionally, pain management was reactive, using analgesics post-surgery or anti-inflammatories when symptoms were evident. Now, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) advocate for a proactive approach.
These organizations recommend identifying patients at risk early, implementing preventive measures such as weight control and adequate exercise, and conducting systematic pain assessments at each veterinary visit.
In Argentina, laboratories like König are developing advanced solutions, such as a selective COX-2 inhibitor, an anti-inflammatory that does not compromise vital functions like stomach and kidney protection.
This innovative approach minimizes prolonged systemic exposure and focuses on the inflamed tissue for up to 24 hours, facilitating a more comfortable and effective treatment for pets.
Studies show that half of the owners abandon long treatments due to their complexity, but the new products aim to simplify with single daily doses.
The safety of NSAIDs in cats is a concern in Argentina, where many felines suffer from chronic osteoarthritis. The new selective COX-2 inhibitors provide safe and effective options for cats, according to Teo Quattrocchi, veterinarian and lecturer at UBA.
This shift in the veterinary approach emphasizes that pain in pets should not be tolerated as a normal part of aging. It is a treatable medical issue that directly affects the quality of life of animals and their family relationship. If you notice subtle changes in your pet, a veterinary consultation could reveal unnecessary suffering, and modern medicine has tools to improve their well-being.
