Arthritis in cats is similar to arthritis in humans: it’s a chronic, painful, progressive disease that impacts joints. Often associated with aging, it impacts a majority of cats as they get older.
Arthritis usually takes years to develop. The cartilage that normally lines and cushions the joint breaks down, meaning bones rub together abnormally. Bones can even splinter and form sharp projections into the joint leading to swelling, inflammation and pain.
Commonly affected joints include the spine, hips, knees, and elbows, although any joint can develop arthritis. This is a progressive disease, meaning it worsens over time. Joint changes result in pain, leading to decreased mobility and lameness in affected cats. Arthritis is generally associated with aging, with no specific breed or sex predisposition.
Recognizing Arthritis in Cats
Cats with arthritis can hide their pain, so symptoms might not be immediately obvious. Look for signs such as limping, swollen joints and muscle wasting.
Arthritis does manifest itself differently in each cat. Some cats might become hesitant to jump or play as they did when younger, showing decreased energy and agility. Grooming might become difficult due to pain, leading to an unkempt appearance. Changes in posture, such as avoiding sleeping or sitting normally, are also common. Cats might start going to the bathroom outside the litter box if they associate it with pain.
These changes occur gradually, not overnight.
Causes of Arthritis in Cats
Arthritis can develop without a clear cause, though genetics might play a role, especially with age-related arthritis. Arthritis can also develop after joint injuries, even minor ones, caused by:
- Ligament injuries
- Immune-mediated diseases
- Tick-borne diseases
- Direct trauma such as falls
- Infections
- Congenital defects
Diagnosing Arthritis in Cats
Vets may suspect arthritis based on a physical exam but require additional tests for a definitive diagnosis. Cats are historically stoic and might not show symptoms: their diagnosis coming during a routine exam or sometimes even an x-ray for a different issue.
During physical exams, vets might observe:
- Lameness
- Changes in gait, posture, or sitting position
- Difficulties in sitting or standing
- Swollen or thickened joints
- Joint crepitus (clicking sounds)
- Pain upon joint palpation
- Decreased range of motion
To confirm arthritis, X-rays are the go-to diagnostic tool, revealing abnormalities such as joint distention, bony outgrowths, soft-tissue thickening, narrowed joint spaces, and calcified lesions.
Managing and Treating Arthritis in Cats
While arthritis cannot be reversed, treatments can slow its progression and improve quality of life. Early detection and consistent monitoring are crucial, especially since many cats show few clinical signs.
Most cats diagnosed with arthritis are over ten years old, although the condition might have begun years earlier. Studies indicate that around 60% of cats aged six and older show signs of arthritis. Consult your veterinarian to discuss the best treatment plan for your cat, which may include pain management, dietary changes, and supplements to protect joint cartilage.
Preventing Arthritis in Cats
To prevent arthritis, it is important to keep your cat at a healthy weight. If your cat is overweight, a weight loss plan should be instituted with veterinary guidance. Early use of cartilage-protective medications and supplements can also help safeguard your cat's joints from early degeneration.
