Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Arthritis Pain Meds

Our 14 year old Lab mix Sable has arthritis and is on Tramadol. It doesn’t seem to be working too well. She has many other health problems, and probably doesn’t have a lot of time left, so we would like to make her as comfortable as possible. She has kidney disease, high BP, and a Thyroid problem, so she is on Benazepral, and Thyrosyn. She hasn’t been eating well, and pain may be part of the problem. But, the Tramadol tends to make her loose her appetite. Is there a med that I could ask my vet about that would be more effective, and help with her appetite? Thank you.
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
544774 tn?1217159273
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Non steroidals such as Rimadyl are not to be used in kidney patients but depending on how high the kidney values are, I,  on occasion will use them if we get a considerable response.
We will monitor kidney values via blood tests and decide if the benefits outweigh the risks.
At 14 there could be other issues for the poor appetite and if the kidney values are elevated, Sable should be on an acid reducer such as zantac.
I wish you and Sable well.
Helpful - 2
Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
I am sorry to hear about your dog and wanted to add a couple thoughts in addition to the expert recommendations given to you above by Dr Sims.

Tramidol is the generic form of a human medication called Ultram. Tramidol is not recommended to be given in dogs with a history of kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorders and lung problems.

Tramidol side effects may include sedation, anxiety, bloating and gas, constipation, convulsive movements, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, hallucinations, indigestion, itching, nausea, nervousness, tremors, vomiting and weakness.

As a traditionally trained veterinarian with several years additional training and experience in holistic natural therapies, I have found that certain natural pet vitamin supplements provide safe and effective arthritis pain relief for arthritic dogs that are also affected with thyroid and kidney issues.

Various combinations of Glucosamine, MSM, Chondroitan Sulfate, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and Essential Omega-3 Fatty Acids are safe and extremely effective to relieve pet arthritis pain. There are also natural herbal kidney products that we have wonderful results with in our older canine patients with kidney failure that  have helped their kidney values; BUN and Creatinine and kidney function return to normal.

I hope this is somewhat helpful and would be glad to discuss this in detail. Feel free to contact our office.

Best Wishes
Dr Carol Osborne, DVM
Helpful - 1

You are reading content posted in the Animal Health - General Forum

Popular Resources
Members of our Pet Communities share their Halloween pet photos.
Has your pet ever swallowed your prescription medicine? Vet tech Thomas Dock explores the top 10 meds that harm pets and what you can do to prevent a tragedy from happening.
Like to travel but hate to leave your pooch at home? Dr. Carol Osborne talks tips on how (and where!) to take a trip with your pampered pet
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.