Osteoarthritis in Cats
As our cats get older, they often suffer from osteoarthritis (OA), just like dogs and people do, (though even younger cats can develop osteoarthritis).
In fact, studies suggest 60% of cats older than 6 years of age and 90% of cats older than 12 years of age are affected by osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a condition where the protective, cushioning cartilage at the ends of bones wears down over time. This leads to pain, which in turn negatively affects the cat’s physical abilities, behavior, and quality of life.
In cats, the elbow, knee, and hip joints are often affected. However, cats also develop OA in their shoulders, spine, and other joints.
In fact, studies suggest 60% of cats older than 6 years of age and 90% of cats older than 12 years of age are affected by osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a condition where the protective, cushioning cartilage at the ends of bones wears down over time. This leads to pain, which in turn negatively affects the cat’s physical abilities, behavior, and quality of life.
In cats, the elbow, knee, and hip joints are often affected. However, cats also develop OA in their shoulders, spine, and other joints.
How will I know if my cat has OA?
Although a veterinarian needs to be consulted to make the diagnosis, there are some changes that indicate that your cat may be suffering from osteoarthritis, such as:
Although a veterinarian needs to be consulted to make the diagnosis, there are some changes that indicate that your cat may be suffering from osteoarthritis, such as:
- Not able or willing to jump onto or off of things as much as used to
- Taking longer to or hesitating to go up or down stairs
- Not as active as used to be
- Over-grooming a painful joint
- Overgrown claws
- Aggressive behavior
How does the veterinarian diagnose OA?
The veterinarian will use a combination of your observations of your cat, a physical exam, which will include an orthopedic exam, observing how your cat moves, and sometimes imaging, such as x-rays.
The veterinarian will use a combination of your observations of your cat, a physical exam, which will include an orthopedic exam, observing how your cat moves, and sometimes imaging, such as x-rays.
Ok, so what do I do when my cat has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis?
Although there is not a cure for osteoarthritis, the good news is that there are many things that can be done to make your cat more comfortable, restore their mobility, and better their quality of life!
At A Well Adjusted Pet, we use a multi-pronged approach to help your feline friend, including:
Although there is not a cure for osteoarthritis, the good news is that there are many things that can be done to make your cat more comfortable, restore their mobility, and better their quality of life!
At A Well Adjusted Pet, we use a multi-pronged approach to help your feline friend, including:
- Physical rehabilitation modalities such as low level laser, therapeutic ultrasound, acupuncture, and even underwater treadmill
- Medications such as Adequan, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), supplements, and a new monthly medication called Solensia.
Is there anything else I can do to help my cat with osteoarthritis?
Yes! If your cat is overweight, we can help you with a weight loss plan. Getting the excess weight off can be a big help for cats with OA.
We also suggest environmental modifications:
Yes! If your cat is overweight, we can help you with a weight loss plan. Getting the excess weight off can be a big help for cats with OA.
We also suggest environmental modifications:
- Ramps/stairs to make it easier for your cat to climb up onto the couch/chair/bed
- Litter Boxes that are easier to get into and out of, such as those with a cutout section for entry or boxes with low sides
- Horizontal scratching posts
- Raised food and water bowls
- Well-padded cat bed or other sleeping area
