Osteoarthrits in Cats

Osteoarthritis in Cats

            Arthritis in cats is often difficult to recognize, but it is far more common than once believed. Nearly 90% of cats over the age of 12 have evidence of arthritic changes in their joints on x-rays and it’s thought that roughly 50-60% of cats over the age of six have arthritic changes. What causes arthritis? What are they symptoms and how can we prevent or treat it in cats?

            Arthritis is inflammation of the joints that occurs through wear and tear with age.  As pets (and people!) age, the cartilage which cushions our joints wears down and joint fluid may also decrease.  These changes allow for less padding in the joint. Bone on bone contact causes inflammation which leads to pain and poor mobility.  Increased risk of developing arthritis can occur with obesity and genetics. The most common joints to develop arthritic changes in cats are the elbows and hips. 

            Symptoms are often difficult to recognize and to diagnose in cats. Arthritic cats often have subtle changes and their smaller bodies and ability to hide pain make arthritis easy to miss in our feline friends.  However, we may notice changes such as the cat pulling himself up onto furniture instead of jumping up, reluctance to jump up onto or down from high perches, being slower going up or down stairs or using stairs at an angle, and changes in overall activity level.  People may also note that cats with arthritis spend less time grooming themselves, they may be less active or sleep more and may be more vocal or object to being handled.

Once the joints are damaged, they cannot be repaired; however, many options exist to slow progression and treat pain in cats.  Multi-modal therapy i.e. combination therapy is best as there is not one drug or supplement that treats all aspects of osteoarthritis.  Maintaining a healthy weight and activity level are crucial to improving joint pain as obesity puts strain on the joints and perpetuates inflammatory changes.  Supplements such as glucosamine, omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil, and glycosaminoglycan injections (Adequan for dogs-used off-label in cats) help reduce cartilage breakdown, reduce inflammation, and improve joint cushioning respectively. 

Pain management can be a bit trickier in cats as they do not tolerate drugs like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) as well as dogs do.  However, there are some NSAIDs as well as other pain medications such as gabapentin and newer monoclonal antibody injections like Solensia that can improve pain and mobility in cats.  All of these should be used with strict attention to the cat’s underlying health, periodic monitoring of liver and kidney function and monitoring for potential side effects. No drug or supplement is 100% benign for all patients. Veterinary care is essential for monitoring patients on these drugs.  Alternative therapies such as cold laser and acupuncture have also been shown to reduce arthritis pain in cats. 

            Osteoarthritis is not easily recognized in our feline friends but is likely more common than we realize. Remember, treating arthritis is not a “one size fits all” for cats and multiple therapies combined often provide a better outcome than one drug or supplement. Potential risks or side effects vs. benefits of any drugs or supplements should be discussed with your cat’s veterinarian. Ideally, diet/weight control, supplements to improve joint health, and pain management should be used together to provide the best treatment plan to keep cats moving well and comfortable well into their golden years.

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

 https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/osteoarthritis-cats-more-common-you-think

https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/orthopedics/diagnosis-and-management-of-feline-osteoarthritis/