Arthritis in cats

Article donated by Dr. Paula Short, Tasman Bay Vets, Mapua

Usually this is the time of year that I start to bang on to people about arthritis in their dogs. Winter is well and truly in the air and with the nights getting colder old joints start to stiffen up. It's fair to say though that up until recently vets have largely ignored the fact that cats can get arthritis too.

Part of the reason for this is that cats are altogether more cunning than dogs as anyone who has been allowed to live with a feline will know! Cats do what they want to do and they only show you what they want to show you. Many a cat owner has brought a severely lame cat to the clinic only to put him down on the floor to walk around perfectly fine on all fours!

Recognising pain in cats is not easy. But when your cat loses interest in playing and jumping, gives up on grooming and starts sleeping more, they're not simply aging; they're suffering. A cat with arthritis won't necessarily limp. Often the only signs of pain are subtle behavioural changes. The sort of changes that as an owner, you are best placed to notice.

Signs to look for include:

  • Disinterest in play
  • Hesitant to jump or making several smaller jumps
  • Avoiding or difficulty climbing stairs
  • Litter tray mishaps/inappropriate urination
  • Increased aggression or biting
  • Vocalising when stroked
  • Poor grooming
  • Unwilling to go out
  • More time sleeping
  • Reduced interaction with other animals

If you notice any of these signs, speak to your Vet. Arthritis can be treated. There is a fantastic green lipped mussel supplement called cat pep available. Green lipped mussels help by providing a natural anti-inflammatory effect within the joints as well as providing the building blocks of cartilage to help maintain joint health. New to the market is the first non steroidal anti-inflammatory licensed for long term use in cats. This helps cats with more severe pain and is as easy as putting a drop of liquid onto their food everyday. With proper care you can improve not just their condition, but their quality of life. Because every cat deserves a comfortable old age.