While many dogs develop arthritis, cats also develop this painful inflammatory joint disease. Feline arthritis is more common than most owners realize. By age 12, nearly all cats have some joint degeneration but many go undiagnosed and untreated. Feline arthritis leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility and can diminish a cat’s quality of life. Our Stanton Pet Hospital team explains feline arthritis causes, signs, and treatment options to help you understand how to keep your cat comfortable and pain-free. 

What causes arthritis in cats?

Arthritis—degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis (OA)—is a painful, progressive condition that causes the breakdown of cartilage that normally cushions the impact between a joint’s bones. Arthritis can affect any joint, but most commonly affects the spine, hips, knees, and elbows. Over time, the bones begin rubbing against each other, causing pain and inflammation, and decreasing mobility. While older cats more commonly develop arthritis, all cats are susceptible. In addition to age, the following factors increase a cat’s arthritis risk:

  • Everyday wear and tear — The mechanical action of everyday walking, running, and jumping can cause cartilage damage over time.
  • Genetics — Some cats have an increased arthritis risk, including Maine coon, Persian, Scottish fold, and Siamese cat breeds. 
  • Injury — A cat who experiences a joint fracture or injury may develop arthritis in the healed joint.
  • Abnormal hip development — Abnormal hip development may affect these joints’ cartilage.
  • Excess weight — Excess weight means excess stress on the joints and cartilage, which can lead to or exacerbate arthritis and joint problems.
  • Health — Cats with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism, may have an increased arthritis development risk.

What are arthritis signs in cats? 

Cats are experts at hiding their pain, and the early arthritis stages are easy to miss until the pain increases enough to change your whiskered pal’s behavior. While feline arthritis signs can vary, they often include:

  • Limping — Cats with painful limbs or vertebrae may favor one or more legs.
  • Altered grooming habits — Affected cats may neglect painful or difficult-to-reach areas, so their coats become matted, unkempt, or greasy.
  • Urinating or defecating outside the litter box — Getting in and out of a high-sided box is difficult for arthritic cats.
  • Change in temperament — Arthritis is painful, and a cat who develops an aversion to being picked up or handled may be hurting. Some arthritic cats may also hide and become less social. 

How is feline arthritis treated?

Arthritis cannot be reversed or cured. However, if a thorough physical exam, X-rays, and diagnostic testing indicate your cat has arthritis, your veterinarian can develop an effective treatment plan to slow the disease’s progression and help relieve your cat’s pain. Feline arthritis treatment plans often include:

  • Anti-inflammatories — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are useful for reducing dogs’ inflammation and pain but the drug must be used very cautiously with cats long term 
  • Pain medication — Pain medications, including gabapentin and opioids, can be used for pain control when NSAIDs are not sufficient.
  • Supplements — Glucosamine and chondroitin have been proven to spare further cartilage damage.
  • Injectable monoclonal antibody therapy — This treatment involves monthly pain-relieving injections. For pet owners who do not want to administer daily medications, this therapy is ideal. 
  • Rehabilitation — Physical rehabilitation can improve an arthritic cat’s muscle mass and mobility. 
  • Alternative therapies — In addition to medication and supplements, an arthritic cat may benefit from alternative therapeutic modalities such as acupuncture or cold laser therapy.
  • Home modifications — Simple adjustments to your cat’s environment can increase their comfort such as:
    • Ensuring your cat has easy access to their favorite and essential spaces 
    • Adding traction, such as nonskid rugs, to slippery floors
    • Providing soft, well-padded beds in all your cat’s favorite spots

Can feline arthritis be prevented?

While arthritis cannot always be prevented, overweight or obese pets are more likely to develop inflammatory conditions than pets at an ideal weight, and excess weight can place extra stress on joints. So, if your cat is overweight, talk with our team about establishing a weight loss program for your whiskered pal. You can also encourage your cat to perform slow, controlled exercises, including walking and interactive play, that will keep their muscles and joints strong and resilient.

Early arthritis detection and treatment can provide long-term comfort and improve your cat’s mobility. If you suspect your cat is suffering from arthritis, schedule an appointment with our Stanton Pet Hospital team, so we can help minimize your feline friend’s discomfort.