Signs of limping, decreased activity levels, and stiffness, can be misinterpreted as signs of aging, but sometimes it can be symptoms of canine osteoarthritis. When your dog suffers from osteoarthritis, the cartilage between bones breaks down, resulting in inflammation and pain due to bone-on-bone contact. Cartilage is a rubber-like, resilient, and smooth elastic tissue that cushions the surfaces where two or more bones meet to form a flexible joint. When your dog is in motion, there is tremendous pressure on the joint. The cartilage, the joint fluid, and the connecting bones, all work together to allow smooth and flexible joint function while acting as a shock absorber. Scientists are not sure what causes the cartilage to breakdown but have found an enzyme that plays an important role in the process. Canine osteoarthritis doesn’t just affect older dogs, it can happen at any age and be caused by developmental disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia, abnormal stress on joints due to obesity, and trauma, or injury. When caught in the early stages, it can be easier to treat. Metacam is indicated for the control of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Inflammation is part of the body’s natural defense mechanism, however, in some situations, inflammation is dangerous and can lead to severe damage in tissues and organs. While dogs experience pain just like us, they don’t often show it. Metacam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of Prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like lipids that are part of the body’s natural defense mechanism, but an excessive prostaglandin production can cause chronic problems with pain. Metacam is available on Vetito veterinary pharmacy in a sweet, honey-flavored oral solution that can be poured on your dog's food or given directly into his mouth. Metacam helps bring relief to your dog and helps him get back to enjoying life. Metacam has been used for over 20 years in more than 30 countries around the world.