Osteoarthritis (OA)

MusculoskeletalAll SpeciesNew

Key Points

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive joint condition characterised by articular cartilage degeneration, synovitis, subchondral bone remodelling, osteophyte formation and chronic pain
Most commonly occurs secondary to other orthopaedic conditions (hip dysplasia, OCD, trauma)
Key signs include lameness, stiffness, difficulty rising or jumping, muscle wasting and behavioural changes
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, orthopaedic exams and imaging
- Radiographic severity doesn’t always correlate to clinical severity!
Treatment is lifelong and combines weight management, controlled exercise, analgesia, environmental modification and addressing the underlying condition (if there is one)

Differential Diagnoses

Septic arthritis
Immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA)
Fractures
Tendon / ligament injury

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →