Age or Arthritis? What is Causing Your Cat to Slow Down?
9 minutes
Every cat parent enjoys the playful behaviour of their feline friend during their younger years. But as time goes on, it's natural to notice some changes. Maybe your once-lively cat now prefers long naps in the sun, or perhaps they don't chase after toys like they used to.
While it's easy to assume that these changes are caused by old age, have you ever wondered if there's more to it? Keep reading to learn about the common signs of arthritis in cats, and how to differentiate this debilitating condition from the natural effects of ageing.
Signs of Arthritis in Cats
Most cat parents are well-attuned to their feline friend's habits. But sometimes, the subtlest changes can be easy to miss or mistaken for the signs of old age. That's why it's important to keep a close eye on your kitty and look for sudden or gradual changes in behaviour.
Here are some of the signs that can indicate arthritis in cats:
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Social behaviour.
Preferring solitude, being less interactive with the family, messy behaviours, or appearing grumpy when disturbed. -
Physical changes.
Altered facial expressions, like flattened ears or retracted whiskers. -
Eating habits.
A loss of appetite, lack of enthusiasm towards mealtimes, and a tendency to only eat small amounts throughout the day. -
Mobility issues.
Hesitation before jumping, struggling with stairs, or altered walking patterns. -
Grooming challenges.
Reduced scratching, difficulty accessing the litter tray, a matted coat, or overgrown claws.
Understanding the Condition
Now that you know some of the most common signs of arthritis in cats, let's learn more about the condition. Feline Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful disease of the joints that worsens over time. It's commonly detected in older cats when the condition is severe and advanced, yet is often overlooked in young and middle-aged cats.
Arthritis can strike at any age, and it can have a real impact on your cat's quality of life – affecting social interaction, mood and sleeping patterns, as well as mobility.
It's important to be aware that arthritis can strike at any age. In fact, nearly 40% of all cats have clinical signs of the condition. What's more, arthritis can have a real impact on your cat's quality of life, affecting social interaction, mood, sleeping patterns, and other aspects of their well-being.
So, how can you tell if your cat's behaviour changes are down to age or arthritis? The truth is it can be difficult to know for sure. That's why it's best to be aware of the signs, keep an eye on your cat, and contact your vet if you have any concerns.
Cat Arthritis Treatment and Care
Caring for a cat with arthritis can feel overwhelming. But the good news is that there are several ways to manage your feline friend's condition and help them stay comfortable.
Let's take a look at some of the most common management techniques for cats with arthritis:
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Consultation.
Always start with a visit to your vet. They can provide a tailored plan based on your cat's individual needs. -
Medication.
Your vet might recommend specific pain relief medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibody injections. They will discuss the risks and benefits of any prescribed medication. -
Holistic approaches.
Joint supplements, physiotherapy, and alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and laser therapy, can help manage the pain of arthritis. -
Weight management.
Making sure your cat is at a healthy weight can take pressure off their joints and reduce the severity of their symptoms. -
Home adjustments.
Simple changes in your cat's environment can make a significant difference. These may include providing ramps or steps to get onto furniture and improving access to litter trays.
Always start with a visit to your vet. Supplements, physiotherapy, and alternative treatments can help manage the pain of arthritis, and simple changes in your cat's home environment can make a significant difference too.
Remember, while cats are masters at hiding their discomfort, regular vet check-ups can help detect and manage potential issues early on. If you're ever in doubt about your cat's behaviour or health, it's always best to seek professional advice. You can also use our symptom checker to help you identify potential issues in your cat.
