Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)

is characterized by the loss of cartilage at the end of the bones in a joint.  Cartilage along with joint fluid provides the lubricant for bones to move freely.  As the cartilage is worn away, the bones make contact, which is painful.  Animals with DJD may also appear stiff in the morning or after laying down for a period of time.  We seldom do joint replacement for OA in our pets.  Most owners treat the pain of DJD with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) specially designed for our pets.  Another name for DJD is osteoarthritis (OA).