What is joint problems?
Conditions like kneecap displacement, hip dysplasia, and all types of arthritis that may include osteoarthritis, septic arthritis, immune-mediated arthritis, and cancerous arthritis. Many different types of conditions can affect a cat’s joints. Some of these can be congenital, or present at birth, while others are mostly caused by joint trauma, infection, and, in some cases, cancer. These conditions can affect any part of the joint, from the membranes to the cartilage and tendons in the joint.
Causes for joint problems?
Joint problems can be caused due to many reasons like some of them may be present at birth, while others are caused by joint trauma, bacterial infection, and cancer. Immune-mediated arthritis, similar to rheumatoid arthritis in people, is caused by the cat’s own immune system. Obesity may also play a role in causing certain joint disorders. An uncommon cause of joint disorders in cats, particularly arthritis, is the presence of a tumor on the pituitary gland that emits excess amounts of the growth hormone. Cats with this rare condition typically suffer from feline diabetes. Cats that are seven years or older are usually checked for joint disorders during routine veterinary examinations, as the disease can be a normal part of aging for many animals. Diagnostic techniques may vary depending on the issues affecting your cat. Be sure to inform your vet of the duration and extent of your cat’s symptoms.
Limit the cat’s activity
Limiting a cat’s activity will depend on the type and severity of the joint problem and treatment method used by the vet. For mild conditions treated with anti-inflammatory or pain management medications, recovery is fairly straightforward. Weight management and physical therapy may be effective in reducing your cat’s pain and discomfort. Your vet may recommend changes to your cat’s diet or certain weight management supplements in order to control symptoms. For more severe conditions that require surgery or physical manipulation of the joint, you’ll want to ensure that your cat gets plenty of rest during the recovery period. Don’t allow your cat to irritate the surgery site. If your cat required limb amputation, your vet will advise you on how to help your cat adjust. The recovery time for amputation mostly ranges from two weeks to a month or more, depending on the level of pain your cat is experiencing. Always follow your vet’s directions carefully following diagnosis and treatment no matter how mild or serious the condition. Ensure your cat has a warm and comfortable place to rest. This is incredibly important for cats suffering from joint problems.
