| You can buy self-heating pads at major pet store chains which you can put on his bed. They reflect body heat (heating pads can be dangerous for those with limited movement and/or poor circulation, since he may not feel when he's getting too hot and get burned). MSM or glucosamine and chondroitin are good suggestions. I'm wondering why you're limiting his exercise. Unless the vet recommended it (in which case I'd question why), I'd make sure that this old boy gets a reasonable amount of exercise every day. Reasonable daily exercise is one of the keys to managing arthritis, it will help your boy maintain the range of motion he has now, increase his blood flow (which will help with stiffness) and generally help him be more comfortable. Obviously, don't tire him out, but staying active is important when managing arthritis. Good for you for giving this fellow a nice home at this stage of his life, not many people are willing to do that, so it's heartening to meet people who've done it! :) |