Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs and Cats: A 2025 Vet Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🦴🐶🐱

Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs and Cats: A 2025 Vet Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🦴🐶🐱

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc | July 2025

🔎 What Is Spondylosis Deformans?

Spondylosis deformans is a common, non-inflammatory spinal condition characterized by the growth of bony spurs (osteophytes) along the vertebrae. It typically develops with age or due to repeated stress, trauma, or hereditary factors. The condition may go unnoticed in many pets but can cause stiffness, discomfort, or neurologic symptoms in more advanced cases. 🧠🦴

🐕🐈 Who’s Affected?

Both dogs and cats can develop spondylosis deformans, especially as they get older:

• 🐶 Dogs: Most common in the lower spine (lumbar region)
• 🐱 Cats: More common in the thoracic (chest) region

⚠️ Common Signs to Watch For

Most pets show no obvious signs, but some may experience:

• 🛌 Stiffness or reduced mobility
• 🐾 Difficulty jumping, climbing stairs, or turning
• 😖 Pain, especially if a bone spur fractures or presses on a nerve
• 🌀 Neurological signs like lameness, wobbliness, or abnormal posture (if spinal cord or nerves are involved)

In many pets, a diagnosis may occur during unrelated X-rays. Some bone spurs can even be felt during a physical exam. 🩺

🔬 How Spondylosis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis typically involves:

• 🩺 Physical and neurological exams
• 🧪 Basic lab tests (CBC, blood chemistry, urinalysis)
• 📸 Imaging:
  • X-rays to detect bony growths
  • CT, MRI, or Myelography if spinal cord compression or nerve damage is suspected

💊 Treatment Options

No treatment is necessary if your pet is asymptomatic. When signs do appear, options include:

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management

• ⚖️ Weight management: Reduces strain on the spine
• 🚶 Controlled activity or physiotherapy
• 🧊 Warm compresses or cold therapy
• 💊 Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• 🧘 Rehabilitation therapy (hydrotherapy, massage, stretching)

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is rare but may be considered if a spur is severely compressing a nerve or causing extreme pain. It’s generally reserved for severe cases. ⚠️

🧬 New Biologic Pain Management Options

💉 Librela (Dogs)

• Monthly injection to manage chronic osteoarthritis pain
• Variable response: Some dogs improve, some don't, and some worsen
• Reported side effects: ataxia, vomiting, urinary issues, seizures
• Should not be used in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs or those under 12 months

💉 Solensia (Cats)

• Monthly injection for feline osteoarthritis
• More consistent response than dogs with Librela
• Common side effects: itchiness, vomiting, alopecia
• Not recommended for young cats (<12 months) or those under 5 lbs

Always consult your veterinarian before starting a biologic therapy. Results vary from pet to pet. 🧪

📈 Prognosis

If symptoms are absent, pets can live normal lives without intervention. With conservative care, even symptomatic dogs and cats can enjoy improved comfort and quality of life. Long-term outcomes depend on:

• 🧠 Location and severity of bony changes
• 📉 Presence of spinal cord or nerve compression
• ⚖️ Weight control and exercise regimen
• 💊 Response to medications or therapies

📋 Summary Table

🔧 Ask A Vet Can Help

Need guidance on managing your pet’s spinal condition? Use the Ask A Vet app for personalized support on diagnostics, treatment options, and long-term care plans. 🐾💬

🐾 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Spondylosis deformans may sound scary, but many dogs and cats live long, happy lives with this condition. With proactive care and guidance, your pet can remain mobile, pain-free, and full of life. 💙🧠

— Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for expert help managing chronic pain and mobility concerns. 📱