Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital

06/28/2025

06/28/2025

We love seeing photos of our adorable patients. We thought you’d enjoy seeing these pictures of Papillon Eteri and her two tiny puppies! Thanks to Eteri’s mom for sharing!

06/19/2025

Microchipping is especially important around July 4th because fireworks and celebrations can startle pets, causing many to run away in fear. Animal shelters consistently report a spike in lost pets during this time. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that can’t be removed or lost like a collar or tag, greatly increasing the chances of being reunited with your pet if they go missing during the holiday chaos.

06/19/2025

UPDATE: HOME SAFE!

MISSING: 7 month old puppy, 7 lbs. No collar or microchip. If you have any information or sightings, please contact the office. 

06/18/2025

July 4th is coming up soon! Be prepared in advance if you have a noise-sensitive dog!

06/06/2025

Through July 30 1st–10% discount on veterinary services for federal employees and those recently unemployed. (exclusions: reproductive services, pet food and retail items). 

05/31/2025

Do we have a budding Picasso or Monet on our hands? (With her use of blue, Dr Shoup thinks Van Gogh)

Surgical technician, Jaime’s daughter Caitlyn shared her version of miniature schnauzers John and George (15 weeks) getting a bath.

05/27/2025

To continue the theme of‘Osteoarthritis in Pets’ month, today we bring you…

Recognizing the Subtle Signs of Osteoarthritis in Cats

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative joint disease, is a common yet often overlooked condition in older cats. Unlike dogs, cats are masters at hiding discomfort and pain, which means the signs of arthritis in felines are usually subtle and behavioral rather than obvious limping or vocalization. As a result, many cats suffer silently unless their caregivers know what to look for.

Here’s what you need to know to identify the signs of osteoarthritis in cats and help them live more comfortably.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive condition in which the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down over time, leading to inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. While it can affect cats of any age, it is most common in middle-aged to senior cats.

Subtle Signs of Arthritis in Cats

1. Decreased Mobility

Jumping less or avoiding high surfaces: Cats with arthritis may stop jumping up onto furniture or counters they once frequented.
Hesitation before jumping or climbing stairs: They might pause, test with a paw, or struggle to make the leap.
Stiffness or awkward movement: This is especially noticeable after resting or in the morning.

2. Changes in Grooming Habits

Less grooming: Arthritic cats may avoid bending and twisting to reach all areas of their body, especially their back or hind legs.
Matted fur or dirty rear end: These can be signs of discomfort during grooming.
Overgrooming painful areas: Some cats will lick or chew at a sore joint.

3. Altered Behavior or Personality

Increased irritability: A previously tolerant cat may hiss or swat when touched, especially over sore joints.
Withdrawal or hiding more: Pain can cause cats to avoid interaction or retreat to quiet spots.
Less play or interaction: Cats may stop engaging in play that involves jumping, chasing, or climbing.

4. Changes in Litter Box Habits

Accidents outside the box: Climbing into a box with high sides may become difficult.
Struggling to squat: Watch for awkward posture or wobbling during elimination.

5. Changes in Appetite or Weight

Reduced appetite: Chronic pain can lead to stress or depression, decreasing interest in food.
Weight gain or loss: Inactivity can cause weight gain, but some cats may lose weight due to chronic pain or stress.

05/12/2025

Is your dog slowing down? It might be more than old age!

Dogs, especially seniors, can develop osteoarthritis (OA) — a common cause of joint pain and stiffness. OA is a chronic joint condition that results when joint cartilage is worn away faster than it can be replaced. This can result in bones rubbing on each other and joints becoming painful and swollen.

May is National “Osteoarthritis in Pets” month. Throughout the month, we will be sharing information related to OA in pets. Our post today srarrsş is related to identifying the signs of arthritis, specifically in dogs. (Cats are not small dogs, and will be featured in a future post).

Here’s what to watch for:

✔ Limping or stiffness, especially after rest

✔ Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks

✔ Muscle loss in the legs

✔ Swollen or thickened joints

✔ Behavioral changes (irritability, licking at joints)

The good news?

With early care you can help your dog stay active and comfortable. Our next post will dive into this topic in detail.