With many pet cats living well into their teens and even early 20s, most cases of osteoarthritis in cats are probably not preventable. But regular, moderate exercise and a high-quality diet can help manage body weight and help keep a cat’s musculoskeletal system in excellent shape. As cats age, osteoarthritis can appear gradually with very subtle signs. Regular veterinary visits provide a great opportunity to assess your cat’s joint health. Recognizing arthritis in cats can be difficult because the condition progresses slowly and cats don’t complain about their aching joints. Also, some owners assume that signs of arthritis like slowing down and stiffness are normal in older animals.
Extra weight puts stress on an animal’s joints and can lead to joint problems. Treat your pet to a healthy diet that isn’t high in carbs. Look for food that includes joint-supporting supplements. Encourage your pet to exercise and burn off any extra calories.
Supervise your pet and help them avoid injuries that could lead to painful joint conditions later in life. Provide a cat ramp so they can easily get into and out of the car without jumping, or offer them a footstool so they don’t have to risk the leap.
Animals of all ages need appropriate levels of exercise. Indoor cats are especially prone to immobility. Toys, scratch pads, and healthy treats can motivate your feline friend to move and groove. Pets like to be pampered, you don’t need to be a trained professional to give your cat a massage. Pinpoint areas of discomfort and applying pressure to problem areas help promote circulation.
Acupuncture can reduce pain by stimulating nerves and regulating the circulatory system. Many veterinarians are trained in the practice. Taking your cat for regular checkups can help a vet identify clinical signs early. Radiography or X-rays can reveal bony growths and joint abnormalities, regular visits will also help you to keep your cat in good health. Take the opportunity to discuss any of your concerns or questions as vets can recognize subtle signs of arthritis, but it is up to owners to recognize changes in the behavior or body movement of their cat.
