Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that most commonly affects chondrodystrophic (i.e., dwarf) breeds, such as the Dachshund, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Basset Hound, and Cocker Spaniel. However, IVDD can occur in any breed, especially overweight or obese pets, but is rarely seen in cats. The severity of your pet’s IVDD affects their prognosis, treatment, and at-home management plan. Let’s take a closer look at what causes this disease in pets, and how it’s best treated.

How does intervertebral disc disease occur in pets?

IVDD in pets typically appears as neck or back pain, a partial loss of limb function, paralysis, and, occasionally, loss of feeling in the hind legs. Your pet may cry in pain when picked up, be reluctant to use stairs, arch their back, or have knuckled paws on shaky legs. When your pet displays IVDD signs, one of these incidents could have occurred:

* Concussion — The intervertebral disc ruptures, sending the nucleus rocketing into the spinal cord with excessive force.

* Compression — More commonly, the intervertebral disc nucleus slowly pushes its way into the spinal canal, pinching the spinal cord. 

These intervertebral discs—made up of a tough outer layer and a soft, gel-like center—connect the separate vertebrae in the spine and act as a shock absorber. When they dehydrate and degenerate, your pet will show IVDD signs. IVDD can occur in the neck area, the middle of the back, or the lower back region. 

How is intervertebral disc disease treated in pets?

IVDD treatment is based on the spinal cord injury location, the onset of the problem, and the severity of clinical signs. Medical treatment is indicated for pets who show only pain or mild loss of limb function, or are considered high anesthetic risks, and when diagnostic tests do not depict spinal cord pressure. Medical treatment involves:

* Confinement — Extremely strict confinement is necessary for healing. For two to six weeks, the pet can leave its crate only to eliminate, eat, and drink.

* Pain relief — Pain medication will be chosen based on your pet’s health status and pain level.

* Muscle relaxer — A muscle-relaxing medication will soothe tense, sore muscles that have been working overtime to avoid torquing your pet’s back or neck.

* Acupuncture — Acupuncture can provide pain relief for patients, and may help restore nerve function.

* Urinary bladder expression — Some pets cannot urinate on their own after a disc rupture, so fully expressing their bladder at least three times a day is necessary.

Surgical treatment is indicated when the spinal cord is compressed, as this situation can continue to worsen. Although many pet owners worry about surgery, the procedure is highly successful, and recovery is much more rapid than medical treatment. During surgery, a portion of the vertebrae’s side or bottom is removed. The ruptured nucleus also is removed from inside the spinal canal to take pressure off the spinal cord. 

How can I help my pet with intervertebral disc disease at home?

After surgery or recovery following medical treatment, physical therapy can do wonders for your pet, strengthening their body again. Physical therapy can range from simple exercises you do at home, to massage therapy and hydrotherapy at a physical therapy hospital. While your pet is recovering its strength, ensuring that its bladder is fully voided is critical. If your pet can’t urinate on its own, have your family veterinarian show you how.

To avoid future injury to other intervertebral discs, make your home easier for your pet to navigate. Place ramps or pet stairs to favorite furniture and resting areas, lay down carpet runners and rugs to provide traction on slick floors and provide an orthopedic bed to support your pet as they rest. 

If your pet’s quality of life is declining as a result of IVDD, talk to our veterinary hospice care team. We will guide you and your pet through their final moments, providing comfort and peace throughout the process. Contact our team today for more information about Lap of Love services in your area.