What It Is:
Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a condition in which the joints become inflamed and the protective cartilage breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is very common in senior cats, although it is often underdiagnosed because cats are so good at hiding pain.
Arthritis can affect any joint, but it most often occurs in the hips, elbows, knees, and spine.
🐾 Common Symptoms
Cats with arthritis rarely limp or cry out. Instead, they show more subtle behavioral changes, such as:
- Hesitating or refusing to jump onto furniture
- Difficulty climbing stairs or into the litter box
- Sleeping more than usual
- Stiffness, especially after rest
- Less grooming or a scruffy coat
- Irritability or reduced tolerance for handling
- Reduced activity or playfulness
- Litter box accidents due to difficulty entering or exiting
- Overgrown nails from lack of scratching and movement
Owners often mistake these signs for normal aging, but they are often signs of joint pain.
🦠 Causes and Risk Factors
Arthritis develops gradually over time. Causes and contributing factors include:
- Aging and natural joint wear
- Previous injury or trauma
- Obesity, which increases joint stress
- Joint deformities or congenital conditions
- Chronic inflammation or immune disease
- Hip dysplasia or patellar luxation
- Previous orthopedic surgery
- Lack of exercise or stimulation
Some cats have no obvious risk factors but still develop arthritis as they age.
🔍 Diagnosis
Diagnosing arthritis starts with a detailed physical exam and medical history. Because cats mask pain, diagnosis may require imaging and observation of behavior at home.
Common diagnostic tools include:
- Physical exam to detect joint stiffness, swelling, or reduced range of motion
- Owner questionnaires about mobility and behavior changes
- X rays to visualize joint changes, bone spurs, or narrowing of the joint space
- Pain trials with anti-inflammatory medications to assess response
Arthritis may be missed unless actively investigated by the veterinarian.
💊 Treatment
While arthritis cannot be cured, there are many ways to manage pain and improve mobility. Treatment is often a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive therapies.
Treatment options may include:
- Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin
- Omega 3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory medications such as Onsior or Meloxicam (if appropriate)
- Pain medications such as gabapentin or buprenorphine
- Weight management to reduce stress on joints
- Soft bedding and easy access litter boxes
- Heated beds or pads for comfort
- Laser therapy, acupuncture, or physical therapy in some cases
- Mobility aids or ramps at home
In many cases, small changes in the home and daily routine make a big difference.
🩺 Prognosis
Arthritis is a chronic condition, but most cats show improvement with a consistent treatment plan.
- Early detection and intervention lead to better long term outcomes
- Most cats can enjoy good quality of life with the right support
- Ongoing monitoring is important to adjust medications as needed
Arthritis does tend to progress over time, but your vet can help slow its impact and keep your cat active and comfortable.
💡 Cat Owner Note
If your cat is slowing down, sleeping more, or not jumping up like they used to, it might not just be age. It could be arthritis. The good news is that your cat does not have to suffer in silence. With some simple adjustments and the right treatment, even senior cats can move more comfortably again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Arthritis in Cats
Can cats get arthritis like dogs and people?
Yes. In fact, studies show that more than ninety percent of cats over twelve years old show signs of arthritis on x rays.
Do cats with arthritis need pain medication?
Often, yes. Your vet may recommend anti-inflammatories, nerve pain medications, or supplements depending on your cat’s condition.
Is arthritis in cats treatable?
It cannot be cured, but it is very manageable with a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and home modifications.
How can I help my arthritic cat at home?
Provide soft bedding, warm spots, low entry litter boxes, and avoid forcing movement. Ramps and stairs can help reduce jumping strain.
What is the best food for cats with arthritis?
Your vet may recommend a joint health diet or one that supports weight management and inflammation reduction.
Can young cats get arthritis?
It is rare, but possible, especially after injury or if there is a joint abnormality. Most cases appear in older cats.