New Delhi (PTI): Does your pet look a bit stiff while walking and having trouble getting up from a lying position these days?

If yes, then its time to consult a vet as these are symptoms of arthritis which gets aggravated among the canines in winter.

"There has been an increase in cases with bone related problems in last few days and further increase is expected as mercury will fall," says Dr Vishal, a city based vet.

In arthritis, the cartilage lining of the joints wears down and the lubricating oil in the joint is less than required.

Several factors, including damage due to old age, injury and overweight cause arthritis. The disease is painful and can be very debilitating for your pet, Vishal said.

Due to pain, a fear psychosis develops in the animal and it refrains from using that affected body part, like it may keep one leg up while standing or it may not like to use stairs.

Medium to large breeds dogs like Labradors and Rottweilers are more at risk as they carry more weight and are therefore more likely to damage their joints.

In some cases, there is a decrease in appetite as well which can further lead to lack of calcium in the pet's body.