One of my old boys, Rufus has Hind end degeneration. I've been giving him and his brother Senior Aid since they were about 2, they are now coming up to 2 1/2 and I'm worried his condition is hurting him. He's been having a little struggle to groom around his back lately, and just today, he's been trying to groom himself, but squeaking/almost yelling whilst trying to do it...does he have a major itch or is it his spine hurting? He's made the noise twice today, and I keep thinking he's fallen or gotten himself caught somewhere he shouldn't but he's just grooming. His brother Seamus is rather attentive to him and keeps him warm and grooms him where he can't reach, I'm just hoping it is frustration rather than pain....

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RIP - Marsh, Hugo, Mako, Rufus, Seamus, Lavender, BigBoy, Tetley and Fitch <3

Do you mean HLD? If you are worried you could try putting him on Metacam. I have an old lady who has HLD and swollen joints who was a floor dweller for about 6 months. I put her on Metacam and couldn't believe the difference, she's not very coordinated but she can definitely climb well now and loves a good run on the wheel a few times a day.

Well I do have some metacam here, I was wondering if it might make a difference in him, he seems rather frustrated and sore at the moment.

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http://kaedianmori.tumblr.com/ <--- NSFW





RIP - Marsh, Hugo, Mako, Rufus, Seamus, Lavender, BigBoy, Tetley and Fitch <3

aww bless him, it can't hurt to try with the Metacam so good luck

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It's worth a try. As far as I'm concerned if an animal is in pain which can't be managed by pain relief then it's time to say goodbye.

You have to be aware that long term NSAID use is harmful to their kidneys but in such old rats then I think quality of life is better than a prolonged life in pain.