Arthritis in cats

May 30, 2023

As cats age, it can be common for cats to develop arthritis – an inflammatory joint disease, which commonly affects the cat’s hips, elbows and spine. Arthritis results from wear and tear to the joints and can be exacerbated by joint instability, injuries, infection, immune disorders, and genetic abnormalities.

Arthritis is a painful condition because it involves the deterioration of the protective cartilage layer in the joints. Cats with arthritis may exhibit reluctance to jump up or down from furniture, or they may walk with a stiff gait and also have reduced activity levels. They can also display changes in behaviour, such as reacting to be patted over sensitive areas – such as their hips, or they may develop a matted or unkept coat as a result of grooming themselves less if they are uncomfortable.

If you’re concerned that your cat may be showing signs of arthritis, it is important to book them in for a health check with one of our veterinarians. A full physical examination will be performed, and the veterinarian will discuss if any further diagnostic tests are required, such as x-rays to determine the extend of any arthritic changes.

We want your cat to stay happy and healthy, and there are several aspects to managing arthritis in cats. All cats have an ideal weight dependent on their breed, size and lifestyle, and weight management is an important part of helping your pet cope with arthritis as if they’re overweight, this can add additional stress onto their joints.

Our veterinarians will provide expert advice on weight management for your pet, together with discussing what treatment options are available to help keep your cat comfortable. They will also provide tips on managing your cat at home, such as regular brushing of your cat’s coat to minimise matting, and ensuring that the cat has easy access to feeding, toileting and bedding.

Treatment options for arthritis in cats includes anti-inflammatory and pain relief medications, disease modifying medications which aid joint health, together with dietary supplements and prescription diets to support joint health.

Cats are the focus during May and June at Sydney Animal Hospitals with the opportunity for your cat to have a free dental check by a vet nurse, discounted dental treatments and Hills dental food at a reduced price. This offer is valid until the 30th June (T&C’s apply).

Have we seen your cat lately? – click here to find out more

For more information contact your local Sydney Animal Hospitals

STRESS-FREE WAYS TO GET YOUR CAT TO A VET

Visits to the veterinarian are an important part of caring for your cat. However, putting your cat in a carrier and traveling with them to and from the veterinary practice can be stressful for you and your cat.
Thankfully, there are many ways to make the visit more pleasant for you both.

KIDNEY DISEASE IN PETS

Kidney disease can affect both dogs and cats, causing a variety of symptoms that can affect their health and quality of life. The role of the kidneys is to filter the blood removing waste products and to maintain the balance of electrolytes in the blood to keep the body hydrated and healthy. The waste products they remove from the blood then leave the body as urine