Arthritis in Cats

Arthritis in cats is a degenerative joint disease, just like it is in humans. The symptoms of arthritis in cats are similar to the symptoms a person with arthritis would experience. For example, the cat may be stiff and have difficulty walking. He may limp or be reluctant to move around as much as he used to, and his litter box habits may begin to decline. Osteoarthritis, the most common type, usually affects the elbow joints in older felines.

How to help a cat with arthritis

Overweight cats are more likely to suffer from arthritis, and weight reduction can often help to reduce symptoms of arthritis in a cat that is overweight. That’s because the extra weight places additional stress on joints that can exacerbate symptoms and cause further erosion of the joints.

Exercise is also important to maintain as much mobility as possible. It may be difficult to get a cat with arthritis moving, but it is important. Try giving him new toys and play with him as much as possible.

Be sure that he is warm, especially when sleeping. Cold, damp air can make arthritis symptoms worse.

Make day to day activities as easy as possible. For example, find a litter box with lower sides and use shallow food dishes when possible. You may also need to brush or bathe your cat if he has difficulty grooming himself due to arthritis.

In cats that are in significant pain from arthritis, anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers are sometimes prescribed. If your cat needs an anti-inflammatory medication or pain reliever make sure it is prescribed by a veterinarian. Human painkillers – especially acetaminophen (Tylenol) are extremely poisonous to cats.

Nutritional supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, compounds that help to build cartilage and prohibit the breakdown of joints, can also be used to treat arthritis in cats. These are the same supplements that people with chronic arthritis symptoms often find helpful in improving their condition. Again, make sure to give your cat the kind that is formulated for felines.

Warm compresses and massage can relieve arthritis symptoms in cats that will tolerate these treatments.

Other types of arthritis

There are a few other types of arthritis in cats, including traumatic arthritis and a type that is caused by Calcivirus infection. Traumatic arthritis occurs as a result of injury. Calcivirus, a respiratory illness, can also cause inflammation in joints. Cats with this type of arthritis may have a fever in addition to difficulty moving. Usually, this condition resolves on its own. In the meantime, anti-inflammatory medications can help to manage the pain.

Polyarthritis is probably the most severe type of arthritis in cats as well as the most difficult to treat. This type of arthritis affects several joints and usually affects younger animals. It usually affects the cat’s feet, wrists and hocks.

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