Get Set for the Vet: Preparing for Your Cat’s Arthritis Check-Up
15 minutes
Worried that your cat may be suffering from arthritis? You're not alone. This progressive joint condition is common in cats, especially as they age. But before you take your feline friend for a check-up, it's important to be prepared.
In this article, we'll explain what to do before your cat's arthritis vet visit. From recognising the signs of arthritis to knowing what to expect at the appointment, we've got you covered. So, read on to learn more about the steps you can take to get your cat the help they need.
What Are the Signs of Arthritis in Cats?
It's not always easy to spot when a cat is suffering from arthritis, as they're known for hiding their pain. However, there are a few common signs that may indicate the condition. These include:
- Sleeping more (or having difficulty sleeping)
- Stiffness or difficulty jumping off or onto surfaces
- Becoming more irritable when being groomed or petted
- Finding it difficult to use the litter box, or avoiding it altogether
- Reluctance to play, hiding more, and changes in social behaviour
- Changes in eating behaviour, such as reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- Struggling to groom certain areas, often resulting in messy or matted fur
Some of these signs can be quite subtle, and may be confused with the normal ageing process. That's why it's so important to keep a close eye on your cat, and take them for a check-up if you notice any changes.
Steps to Take Before the Vet Appointment
Going to the vet may be quite a stressful experience for both you and your cat, so it's important to prepare. Here are some steps you should take before taking your pet for their appointment:
- Make a note of the behaviours you've noticed. Noting behavioural changes will help your vet diagnose your cat's condition more accurately. If possible, it's also a good idea to take videos for your vet team to review because cats will typically not be acting their usual selves at the vets.
- Complete our symptom checker. This can provide your vet with helpful insights into your cat's condition prior to their appointment.
- Write down a list of questions to ask your vet. It's easy to forget something important during the appointment, so it helps to write down any questions or concerns you have beforehand.
- Make sure the appointment is long enough. If you have multiple health concerns to address, try to book a longer appointment. Alternatively, you can book more than one visit so your veterinary team has enough time to cover all your needs.
- Get a large, safe cat carrier. It's vital to get a carrier that's large and secure enough for the journey. It should be fastened securely into your car so your cat is safe during the drive. If possible, get the carrier out a few days or weeks before the appointment so your cat can get used to it. Make it appealing by adding a cosy warm bed and encouraging them to use it with treats.
- Prepare for the journey. Just before leaving, place a towel or blanket over the carrier. This may help to calm your cat and also shield them from other animals in the waiting room that could cause them upset. Using a towel or blanket that smells of home can be especially comforting.
What to Expect at the Vet Appointment
Knowing what to expect at the appointment can help ease any anxiety and better prepare you and your cat for the visit. Here's a quick overview of what a typical appointment may involve:
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Questions and history.
Your vet will ask you some questions and take a detailed history of your cat, including their lifestyle, diet, and general health. This is to get a better understanding of your cat's condition and how it may be affecting their day-to-day life. -
Weight and body condition scoring.
Next, your vet may weigh your cat and body condition score them to check that they're an ideal weight. Obesity is a risk factor for arthritis, so keeping your cat's weight in check is essential. -
Nose to tail examination.
To get a better understanding of your cat's health, your vet will do a nose to tail examination, focusing on all aspects of their body. They'll also gently manipulate or flex some of your cat's limbs and joints. This helps your vet check for any joint instability, crepitus (the grating feeling or sound produced by friction between bone and cartilage), or changes in their range of motion. -
Diagnostic tests.
Depending on the results of your cat's examination, your vet may suggest diagnostic tests such as X-rays or blood tests. These are used to get a clearer picture of your cat's condition and help your vet devise the best treatment plan.
Management plans for arthritis will be tailored to your cat's age, health, and lifestyle. Your vet may prescribe medication and joint supplements, suggest changes to your cat’s diet and even suggest adaptations to the home environment.
How Will My Cat's Arthritis Be Treated?
Once your vet has diagnosed your cat's condition, they'll work with you to create a management plan. The aim of management is to reduce your cat's discomfort and improve their overall quality of life.
Management plans for arthritis will be tailored to your cat's age, health, and lifestyle. Your vet may suggest a combination of different treatments such as:
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Dietary changes.
If your cat is overweight, it's likely that your vet will recommend changing their diet to help them reach a healthier weight. -
Adapting the home environment.
To make life easier for your cat, your vet may suggest making some home changes. This could include giving them a safe and warm place to sleep, providing a lower and wider litter tray, or adding ramps so they can access their favourite places. -
Medication and supplementation.
Depending on the severity of your cat's condition, your vet may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and pain. They may also suggest giving them joint supplements or omega fatty acids to help manage their arthritis. -
Follow up care.
It's important that your cat is regularly monitored so their treatment can be adjusted if necessary. Your vet may suggest regular check-ups or blood tests to ensure everything is going well.
Are You Ready for Your Cat's Arthritis Check Up?
Now that you know what to expect at your cat's appointment, you'll be better prepared for the visit. Remember, if you'd like more information about the signs of feline arthritis before your vet visit, make sure to use our symptom checker. You can also reach out to your veterinary team with any questions or concerns you may have.
