Recognizing Arthritis in Cats: How to Help Your Feline Friend

As your beloved feline friend grows older, you might notice them moving a bit more gingerly. Recognizing arthritis in cats is essential to maintaining their quality of life, especially since over 90% of cats older than 12 show evidence of this debilitating condition. Understanding these changes, the ways you can help at home, and available treatment options are all critical parts of compassionate cat care.

Understanding Arthritis in Cats

Arthritis in cats, much like in humans, involves the inflammation of joints, leading to pain and reduced mobility. While many associate arthritis with dogs, cats can be equally affected, although the signs may be less obvious due to their stoic nature. Unlike dogs, who might openly limp or favor a leg, cats often adapt by changing their habits – like becoming less active or avoiding stairs and jumps.

Symptoms of Feline Arthritis

Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so it’s crucial to be observant. Symptoms of arthritis may include (AAHA, Cornell):

• Limping or favoring one leg
• Reluctance to jump or climb
• Stiffness, especially upon waking
• Increase in nap times or general lethargy
• Changes in grooming habits (due to difficulty reaching certain areas)
• Moodiness or irritability

If you notice any of these signs, it's time for a veterinary visit to discuss your observations and next steps.

Diagnosis and the Importance of Veterinary Assistance

A veterinarian is your best partner in diagnosing arthritis. They’ll conduct a thorough examination and likely recommend X-rays to view the condition of your cat’s joints. This imaging helps in identifying arthritis and determining its severity, shaping the treatment plan.

Regular check-ups are crucial, as they let your vet track changes and adapt the care plan to your cat’s evolving needs.

Management Strategies

Effective arthritis management often involves a combination of approaches:

• Home Adjustments: Install ramps or steps to favorite spots, offer orthopedic bedding, and ensure essentials (like litter boxes) are easily accessible.
• Dietary Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin are widely used, but a review of the evidence found no clear benefit for arthritis pain in cats and dogs. Ask your vet before starting any supplement.
• Weight Management: Keeping a lean body condition is advised for cats with arthritis, especially those with other health risks.

Supporting your cat at home with these changes can make everyday activities more comfortable for them.

Medical Treatments

In some cases, lifestyle changes might not be enough. Your veterinarian may recommend medical treatments, including:

• Pain Relief Medications: NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) such as meloxicam or robenacoxib may be used under close veterinary supervision, though cats are especially sensitive to their side effects and none are FDA-approved for long-term use in cats.
• Anti-NGF Injection: Frunevetmab (Solensia) is an injection FDA-approved to control osteoarthritis pain in cats, given by your vet about once a month.

Always follow your vet’s guidance regarding medications, as cats can have sensitive responses to certain drugs.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Regular vet visits are key to tracking arthritis progression and adjusting treatments as needed. They also help catch any other health conditions that might arise, ensuring your cat remains as comfortable and happy as possible.

How Pawey Can Help

Managing arthritis involves tracking symptoms and treatments consistently. This is where Pawey comes in handy. Add your cat's medications with their doses and reminders, and log vet visits in health records with notes on any changes you observe. With everything in one place, you'll have peace of mind knowing you can quickly respond to any changes in your cat’s condition.

Ensuring your cat enjoys their golden years doesn’t have to be challenging. With the right care, attention, and tools, like Pawey, you can help your feline friend live comfortably and happily even with arthritis.