As any seasoned pet owner will know, joint care for pets is essential for keeping them active, happy, and pain-free as they age. Like humans, pets need regular exercise to maintain strong joints, improve flexibility, and support overall mobility. Whether your pet is a playful pup, an energetic adult feline, or entering their senior years, the right exercise can make all the difference in maintaining their joint health.
In this guide, we’ll explore five low-impact exercises designed to keep your dog or cat’s joints in top condition. These activities help improve movement, reduce stiffness, and support long-term well-being so your furry companion can continue enjoying life to the fullest.
Why joint care for pets is important
Pets love to explore their surroundings, whether it’s locating their favourite spot on the sofa or following the trail of an unusual scent in the garden. Healthy joints play an important role in a pet’s ability to move, run, jump, and negotiate the space around them. Over time, wear and tear, age, or health conditions like arthritis can lead to discomfort and stiffness. Regular exercise, combined with the right joint care supplements, can help maintain flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce the risk of joint-related issues.
Low-impact exercises are particularly beneficial as they provide movement without putting unnecessary strain on the joints. These activities help:
- Improve circulation and reduce inflammation
- Strengthen supporting muscles around the joints
- Maintain flexibility and range of motion
- Prevent stiffness and discomfort in ageing pets
It’s worth noting that not all exercises will be suited to every pet. Bearing that in mind, you may need to tailor your pet’s exercise plan to one that your pet will enjoy so that exercise is a fun activity rather than an unpleasant chore!
1. Swimming – a full-body, joint-friendly workout
The benefits of swimming for humans suffering from joint-related issues such as arthritis have been supported by countless medical studies. The same can be said for animals, and in particular the canine family. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for dogs with joint concerns. One such study found that swimming two to three times per week for 8 weeks continuously can improve the range of motion of the hip joint by about 5%.
So how exactly does swimming help with joint health? Simply put, the buoyancy of water supports the body, reducing pressure on the joints while allowing pets to move freely. This makes it an excellent activity for dogs suffering from arthritis or mobility issues. Some of the benefits of swimming in supporting pet joint care include:
- Low-impact and easy on the joints
- Engages multiple muscle groups for a full-body workout
- Improves cardiovascular health and endurance
- Helps with weight management, reducing stress on joints
If your pet is new to swimming, start in shallow water and use a pet-friendly flotation device if needed. Always supervise swimming sessions, especially in natural water sources such as rivers and lakes. For those with feline friends, this exercise may not be suitable. Cats are notoriously known for having a deep-rooted dislike of being wet, largely because wet fur is uncomfortable for cats and takes a long time to dry (and a lot of grooming!).
2. Gentle walks – daily movement for joint support
A simple yet effective way to maintain joint health is through regular, controlled walks. Walking keeps joints moving without excessive strain, making it ideal for pets of all ages. Here are some tips for joint-friendly walks:
- Stick to soft surfaces like grass or dirt paths to reduce impact on joints.
- Keep walks steady and controlled – avoid sudden sprints or jumping.
- Adjust the length and pace based on your pet’s comfort level.
- Use a harness instead of a collar to prevent unnecessary strain on the neck.
Consistent, moderate walking helps maintain joint mobility, keeps muscles strong, and provides essential mental stimulation. And the best bit? As a pet owner, you can also reap the health benefits of daily walks with your pet. Moreover, it’s a great opportunity to have some bonding time with your beloved pet.
3. Indoor balance exercises – strengthening joints and muscles
Balance and stability exercises help pets develop stronger muscles around their joints, providing extra support and reducing the risk of injury. These can be done indoors, making them ideal for pets with limited mobility or during colder months. Here are some simple balance exercises to support joint care for pets:
- Standing on an unstable surface – Encourage your pet to stand on a cushioned mat or balance pad to engage stabilising muscles.
- Gentle weight shifting – Slowly shift your pet’s weight from side to side while they remain standing.
- Step exercises – Have your pet step onto a low surface (such as a sturdy book or a soft platform) to improve joint flexibility.
These small but effective movements help maintain coordination and keep pets agile.
4. Interactive play – fun and engaging joint care for pets
One of the best ways to encourage your pet to engage in exercise is by making it fun! Light playful activities keep pets moving whilst being mindful of joint health. Choosing the right activities can make a significant difference. Here are some great low-impact play ideas:
- Tug-of-war with a soft rope (gentle pulling only)
- Hide-and-seek using treats or toys to encourage movement
- Rolling a ball across the floor for a slow-paced chase
- Puzzle feeders that promote movement while stimulating the mind
Classic games such as fetch and frisbee are popular with pets, particularly our canine buddies. However, these are considered high-impact activities, which can put a strain on joints. Moreover, there’s a risk of your dog sustaining a nasty torn ligament injury due to an overzealous leap. Instead, opt for controlled, interactive play that encourages movement but safely and enjoyably.
5. Stretching exercises – maintaining flexibility
Just like humans, pets benefit from gentle stretching to keep their muscles and joints flexible. Stretching helps reduce stiffness, improves circulation, and promotes overall mobility. Think of it as yoga or pilates for your pet. Here are some easy stretches for pets:
- Leg stretches – Gently extend your pet’s front and back legs one at a time.
- Neck stretches – Use a treat to guide their head side to side for a gentle stretch.
- Paw lifts – Encourage slow, controlled lifting of paws to engage joints.
As a bonus tip, why not create a relaxed and peaceful environment for your pet to perform their stretches? Positive words of encouragement will keep the experience enjoyable for both you and your pet.
Joint care for pets – exercise combined with nutrition
While exercise plays a vital role in joint health, proper nutrition and supplementation provide additional support. But how do you know whether your pet is getting the right nutrients and minerals to keep their joints working in top condition? VETIQ are here to help!
Get started by adding VETIQ Joint Care Adult Tablets to your pet’s diet. Specially formulated with the very best of natural ingredients such as Krill Meal, Vitamins C and E, and Manganese, these supplements can help maintain joint flexibility, aid mobility, and support overall joint health. They are suitable for both dogs and cats of all ages, and if your dog has reached a more refined age, you should also consider VETIQ Joint Care Senior Extra.
For a tasty alternative, VETIQ Healthy Treats Joint Care offers a delicious way to incorporate joint support into your pet’s daily diet. These triple-action treats are designed to promote flexibility and help keep boisterous pooches and feisty felines active for longer.
Give your pet the support they need with VETIQ’s Joint Care & Healthy Treats ranges
Joint care for pets is about consistent, gentle movement combined with the right nutritional support. By incorporating low-impact exercises such as the ones we have suggested above, you can help your furry friends stay fit, mobile, and pain-free for years to come.
Small daily efforts such as a stroll, a dip in the water or an interactive play session can make a significant difference in a pet’s quality of life.
To give your pet an extra pep in their step; explore our range of Joint Care supplements and healthy treats today!
