In typical feline fashion, your cat will try and hide his pain and discomfort. For this reason, arthritis often gets overlooked as feline old age. Your cat’s instinct is to not show weakness to anyone, so be aware of subtle behavioral changes like resistance to jump on the counter or chair, which are often the earliest symptoms of joint disease. As pain progresses, cats avoid climbing inside the litter box because of pain, and grooming habits go downhill because they can’t reach some areas.

What is Arthritis in Cats?

Feline osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, occurs when the cartilage around the bones begins to erode. Without this cartilage as protection, the bones begin to rub against each other, resulting in pain and inflammation. Cat arthritis is much the same as our own. Family inheritance plays a part, but abuse of jumping, running, or injuries all contribute. Large joints, such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, and ankle are the most frequently affected. Obese cats are especially prone to arthritis.

Cat Arthritis Symptoms

Osteoarthritis in cats symptoms include:

• Changes in jumping and climbing habits
• Slow movements and discomfort
• Limited activity
• Difficulty using the litter box
• Loss of muscle
• Stiffness or limping
• Grouchy when picked up
• Stop perching or cry to be put up on a perch or bed

What Can I Give My Cat for Arthritis Pain

Overweight cats should be placed on a diet because extra weight puts extra stress on the joints. One pound of weight puts four pounds of pressure on each hip with each step. You can see where weight control helps arthritis pain. Weight loss should be slow to avoid liver issues, which overweight cats are prone to.

Nutritional supplements such as Flexadin Advanced with UCII are available to support your cat’s healthy bones and joints. Nutritional support will help you avoid the need for drug support. If drug support is needed, nutritional support will lower the dose needed to keep them comfortable. Your veterinarian can prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs that will keep their pain under control safely. Do not give your cat anti-inflammatory drugs without your veterinarian’s approval – common drugs like Aspirin have a narrow dose range and Tylenol is extremely toxic to cats!

What Helps Cats With Arthritis

Arthritis hurts, especially in cold weather. The goal is to make them more comfortable. Arthritic cats will seek out warm areas to lie down, especially when changes in weather aggravate their arthritis. A warm heated bed on a window seal or low perch area will go a long way to comfort them. Try the Lectro-Kennel^™ Heated Pad & Cover, which warms to match your pet’s normal body temperature and protects against the cold.

An extra step or bench helps cats get up in bed without hurting themselves. Also make sure that food bowls and litter boxes are easily accessible and close to where your cat spends most of his time.

Encourage walking and playing to increase joint motion. Think of it as physical therapy for your cat. Besides, it is fun and makes you smile to see your old cat trying to act like a teenager again! Pull toys and fishing-type toys are both good choices.

How to Prevent Arthritis in Cats

Preventive measures include ensuring your cat is getting the right nutrients and regular exercise in the first half of his life, which will keep his body healthy and help him maintain a proper weight. Daily vitamin and mineral supplements are available to help your cat get the necessary nutrients, while preventive joint supplements contain key ingredients to strengthen joints and slow the progression of joint problems.

Remember that age is not a disease. Address the issues that prevent a normal lifestyle for your cat. If you take steps to manage arthritis, your cats will be capable of living comfortably well into their geriatric years.

If you have more questions on osteoarthritis in cats, call us at 800.786.4751.