What Is Arthritis in Cats?
Cat arthritis occurs when one or more joints become painful and less mobile. Osteoarthritis in cats is a common form, involving gradual deterioration and changes within the joint.
It is particularly common as cats get older, although younger cats can also develop joint problems following injuries or because of underlying conditions.
Because changes often happen slowly, owners may simply think their cat is "slowing down". This makes knowing your cat's normal habits especially important.
For more ways to monitor your cat at home, read this.
What Are the Signs of Arthritis in Cats?
Unlike dogs, cats with arthritis may not noticeably limp. Instead, cat arthritis symptoms often appear as small changes in everyday behaviour.
Signs to watch for include:
- Jumping onto lower surfaces instead of high ones
- Hesitating before jumping up or down
- Stiffness after sleeping or resting
- Difficulty climbing stairs
- Moving more slowly
- Sleeping or resting more than usual
- Reduced interest in playing or exploring
- Difficulty getting into or out of the litter tray
- Grooming less, particularly around the back and hindquarters
- Becoming less tolerant of being touched or picked up
- Spending more time alone
- Changes in temperament or irritability
One isolated change does not necessarily mean your cat has arthritis. However, several gradual changes together are worth discussing with your vet.
Regular check-ups also give your vet an opportunity to notice mobility changes you may not have recognised at home.
Arthritis in Cats' Back Legs
Changes involving the back legs are particularly noticeable in some cats.
You might see your cat hesitate before jumping onto the couch, take stairs more carefully or pull themselves upwards using their front legs rather than jumping confidently.
They may also stop visiting favourite elevated sleeping spots.
Sometimes the change is even subtler. A cat that previously jumped directly onto a windowsill may begin using a chair as an intermediate step.
These adaptations can be easy to dismiss as ageing, but they may indicate that certain movements have become uncomfortable.
Grooming and Litter Tray Changes
Cats are usually careful groomers, so changes in coat condition can provide useful clues.
Joint stiffness may make it difficult for a cat to reach their back, hips or hind legs. You may notice matting, dandruff or a generally less well-groomed coat.
The litter tray can create similar challenges. High sides may become difficult to step over, while squatting can become uncomfortable.
A cat that starts toileting beside the tray should not automatically be considered naughty. Pain or reduced mobility may be contributing.
Other medical conditions can cause similar changes, so veterinary assessment is important. You can learn more about common cat health issues here.
How Is Cat Arthritis Diagnosed?
If you notice possible signs of arthritis, your vet can assess your cat and consider other possible causes.
Diagnosis may involve:
- Discussing changes you've noticed at home
- A physical examination
- Feeling the joints and assessing range of movement
- Observing how your cat walks or moves
- Imaging such as X-rays where appropriate
Videos taken at home can also be useful. Cats don't always behave or move normally at the vet clinic, so recording your cat walking, climbing stairs or jumping can provide additional information.
Arthritis Treatment for Cats
There is no single arthritis treatment for cats that suits every animal. Instead, your vet may recommend an individual management plan based on your cat's age, overall health and severity of symptoms.
Management may include veterinary pain relief, weight management, appropriate activity, changes around the home and nutritional support.
The aim is usually to reduce discomfort while helping your cat remain safely active and maintain a good quality of life.
Pain Relief for Cat Arthritis
Your veterinarian may recommend medication to manage arthritis pain.
Never give your cat human painkillers unless your veterinarian has specifically instructed you to do so. Some medications commonly used by people can be extremely dangerous to cats.
If you're concerned your cat is uncomfortable, speak to your vet rather than experimenting with medicines or home treatments.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight can be particularly important for cats with joint problems because excess weight places additional pressure on joints.
If you're unsure whether your cat is at a healthy weight, this guide can help.
Nutritional Support
Your vet may recommend particular diets or supplements as part of a broader management plan.
Supplements aren't a replacement for veterinary treatment, and their suitability can vary between cats. Discuss any new supplement with your vet first.
Learn more here.
How to Help a Cat With Arthritis at Home
Small changes around the home can make everyday life considerably easier.
Consider providing:
- Low-entry litter trays so your cat doesn't have to climb over high sides
- Steps or ramps to favourite beds, couches or windows
- Comfortable bedding in warm, easily accessible locations
- Non-slip surfaces on slippery floors
- Food and water nearby so your cat doesn't need to travel unnecessarily
- Gentle grooming assistance for areas they struggle to reach
Try to keep your cat appropriately active rather than preventing movement altogether. Your vet can advise you on suitable activity based on your cat's individual condition.
For more advice on supporting older cats, visit here.
Planning for Your Cat's Long-Term Care
Arthritis can require ongoing veterinary appointments, monitoring and treatment, so planning for healthcare costs is another part of responsible pet ownership.
Pet insurance can help owners prepare for eligible unexpected veterinary expenses, but policies have conditions, exclusions and rules around pre-existing conditions. It's important to understand what is and isn't covered before choosing a policy.
You can learn more about Pet-n-Sur cat insurance here.
For more information about cover and exclusions, visit here.
Or browse the Pet-n-Sur FAQs.
You can also read about the benefits of considering cover while your cat is young.
Helping Your Cat Stay Comfortable
Arthritis in cats doesn't necessarily mean giving up the activities they enjoy. With early recognition, veterinary support and thoughtful changes at home, many cats can continue to have a comfortable and fulfilling life.
The most important thing is to notice changes rather than simply assuming they're part of getting older. If your cat is jumping less, moving differently, struggling with grooming or changing their normal routine, a conversation with your vet is a good place to start.
