Consult with your veterinarian to find pain relief treatments for your cat. Depending on the cat’s condition, the vet may prescribe medication for pain relief. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are sometimes prescribed for feline arthritis. NSAIDs can be very effective at controlling pain and inflammation in joints.
Never give a cat medication intended for a human. A standard dose of an NSAID for a human could cause major kidney damage in a cat. Pet owners need to be cautious when administering medications, they should always be used as prescribed by a veterinarian, or under the supervision of a vet to avoid the risk of side effects. Common side effects of NSAIDs include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. If you notice any of these side effects, call your veterinarian right away.
Other options for an arthritic cat include dietary supplements, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, GLM and omega-3 fatty acids. These supplements help support the joints and should be used with a vet’s approval.
Allowing an arthritic cat to become overweight puts additional strain on already painful joints. Regulating your cat’s diet and encouraging regular exercise are the best ways to maintain your cat’s body weight. Ration your pet’s food and experiment with different types of toys to figure out which ones your cat prefers and which ones keep it most active.
There are a few alternative therapies that work quite well for some cats in reducing arthritis pain like acupuncture, massage, hydrotherapy and laser therapy. These medications and techniques can be combined to provide more effective pain relief for an arthritic cat. These alternative methods are risk-free for your cat. For older cats, a heated bed, blanket or even a hot water bottle may provide relief from the pain and stiffness of arthritis. It may take some coaxing, but once your cat gets used to the heated bed, it should be a source of comfort.
