What does arthritis look like in cats?
If your cat has arthritis, you may start to notice signs of reduced mobility, decreases in everyday activity, and changes in behavior, such as: Hesitancy to jump up to favorite spots like a chair or window ledge. Limping is rare, but it is common for the pet to be stiff when getting up from lying down.
What helps joint pain in cats?
There are a few different treatment options available for cats with arthritis:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Pain management medication.
- Injectable joint protectants.
- Acupuncture.
- Cold laser therapy or photobiomodulation (PBMT).
What are the symptoms of arthritis in cats?
Felines suffering from arthritis may show overall stiffness, swelling of the joints, lethargy, lameness, decreased flexibility and discomfort when you pet or handle them in certain positions.
Why does my cat have arthritis in her hip?
Some of the most common factors that increase the risk of arthritis in cats are: Wear and tear. The joints may weaken as the cat gets older. Abnormalities. Abnormal hip development may affect cartilage around joints. Injury. When a cat experiences a joint fracture or joint injury, it may cause arthritis. Obesity.
Is there a cure for arthritis in cats?
There is no cure for cat arthritis, but you can take steps to make your cat feel better. If you notice your cat slowing down or showing signs of pain when they move, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away.
What kind of arthritis does a Maine Coon have?
This is most common in Maine Coon, Persian, Scottish Fold and, Siamese cats. Arthritis can affect any part of a cat’s body, but it’s common in legs. When cat arthritis occurs in the back legs it can greatly limit your cat’s mobility. In some cases, cat arthritis can cause lameness where the cat will begin limping or favoring one leg when they walk.
How can you tell if your cat has arthritis?
If your cat has arthritis, you might notice the following: Hesitant to move or jump up/down furniture/cat tree, etc. OA is often suspected based on your cat’s age as well as the signs and symptoms noted above.
How old does a cat have to be to have arthritis?
If your cat is hesitating to jump, or is looking at his favorite chair and then just walking away, maybe old George is in considerable arthritic pain. Age, weight, health status and previous injuries play a big role in feline arthritis. Most cats don’t develop obvious signs of arthritis until they are at least 10 years old.
Some of the most common factors that increase the risk of arthritis in cats are: Wear and tear. The joints may weaken as the cat gets older. Abnormalities. Abnormal hip development may affect cartilage around joints. Injury. When a cat experiences a joint fracture or joint injury, it may cause arthritis. Obesity.
What does osteoarthritis do to a cat?
Arthritis, or more correctly, osteoarthritis (OA) causes pain and discomfort and may make your cat slow down or change behavior. Keep reading to learn more about the signs and symptoms of OA, and how your vet can diagnose, treat, and manage OA to improve your senior cat’s quality of life.