Blog

Osteoarthritis is a common disease in cats, particularly those older than 10 years. If left untreated, it can become a source of constant pain. If your cat is diagnosed with arthritis, it’s natural to have concerns about their health. With the proper treatment and care, cats with arthritis can continue to lead fulfilling and joyful lives for many years.

What Is Arthritis in Cats?

Also called osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, Osteo- means “bone,” and -arth- refers to “arthron,” which means joint, and -itis means “inflammation,” so osteoarthritis is a disease involving inflammation of the bone and joint cartilage. It was once thought that the “itis” part of osteoarthritis was a misnomer, that inflammation didn’t play a role in its development, and that it mainly was a degenerative disease resulting from simple “wear and tear.” Nowadays, it’s thought that inflammation plays an essential role in the development of osteoarthritis. Arthritis in cats often begins developing long before it’s diagnosed, with most cases being identified in cats over 10 years old.

A healthy joint consists of two bones, each covered with a layer of articular cartilage. This cartilage is a specialized type of connective tissue that enables the bones to glide smoothly against each other, minimizing friction and ensuring seamless movement.

It is a condition in which the cartilage in the joints breaks down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the affected joints. It is especially common in older cats, typically those over 10 years of age, but it can occur at any age due to injury or other factors.

Many elderly cats develop arthritis, stiffness, or issues with their movement as they age. Common problem areas include the stifles (knees), hips, and back. Arthritis in cats often affects multiple joints and tends to be symmetrical, impacting both sides of the body. It’s also common in the spine, particularly in the lower back and the base of the tail.

Understanding the Causes of Arthritis in Cats.

To address any concerns about your cat’s mobility or stiffness, it’s essential to determine your cat’s age. While age-related arthritis is shared, the issue could also stem from arthritis unrelated to age or a prior injury your cat may have sustained. It’s crucial to consult with your vet to pinpoint the cause and prevent further injury. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” A quick exam and an X-ray could give you the necessary answers.

Synovial joints

Synovial joints, such as knees, hips, and shoulders, are the body’s most common and movable joints. They are surrounded by a synovial membrane, which produces synovial fluid to lubricate the joint and nourish the cartilage. The articular cartilage deteriorates with osteoarthritis, leading to increased friction, pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility.    
In addition to articular cartilage, another key component of synovial joints is the synovium,

The synovium comprises loose connective tissue, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and specialized surface cells. These surface cells include Type A cells, responsible for clearing cellular debris, and Type B cells, which produce components of synovial fluid. This synovial fluid is crucial in lubricating the two articular surfaces, allowing smooth and pain-free movement.

One of the main problems in osteoarthritis is the gradual loss of articular cartilage. As this cartilage deteriorates, the protective layer between the bones diminishes, resulting in increased friction between the bones. This friction generates inflammation in the joint, irritating nerve endings and triggering pain. Over time, this process significantly impacts joint function, leading to stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.

The Role of Chondrocytes in Maintaining Healthy Articular Cartilage.

Maintaining healthy articular cartilage is the responsibility of chondrocytes, specialized cells dedicated to upkeep cartilage. These chondrocytes are produced and embedded within a gel-like structure known as the extracellular matrix. This matrix is crucial for the cartilage’s function and comprises several key components.

1. Type II collagen: A protein that provides structural support to the cartilage.
2. Proteoglycans: These are aggregates of proteins and sugar molecules, including hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and keratin sulfate.

These extracellular components give cartilage unique properties, such as elasticity and high tensile strength. These qualities are essential for weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and lower lumbar spine. The cartilage’s elasticity allows it to distribute weight effectively, helping the underlying bone absorb shock and pressure during activities like walking, running, or jumping.

How to Diagnose Arthritis in Cats.

Veterinarians can sometimes detect arthritis by examining the joints manually, particularly in the elbows. They may also assess the overlying muscle for signs of arthritis, which is common in the hip joints of older cats where muscle loss in the back legs is noticeable.

While X-rays can diagnose arthritis, they are not always effective because small changes causing significant pain may not appear.

Another diagnostic method is a pain trial, in which the cat is treated with pain medication as if it had arthritis. If the cat becomes more mobile, plays more, and grooms more, it confirms that arthritis is causing the pain, and treatment should continue.

Here are the key signs and symptoms of Arthritis in Cats.

Signs of Arthritis in Cats include:

Limping.

While limping is a common sign of arthritis, it usually only appears when the pain is severe. Cats may not show noticeable limping in the early stages of the disease.

Difficulty Climbing and Jumping.

Arthritic cats may avoid activities that stress their joints, such as climbing stairs or jumping to high places. You might notice your cat no longer spends time in elevated spots like they used to. They may break the jump into smaller steps, such as jumping onto a chair before reaching a table. Hesitation before jumping down is also common as they anticipate pain.

Changes in Grooming Habits.

Cats with arthritis often struggle to groom themselves due to joint pain. This can result in a matted or unkempt coat, especially on the back half of their body. You may notice greasy fur, brittle hair, or a lack of grooming altogether.

Sleeping More.

To cope with arthritis pain, cats often spend more time resting. They may also choose new sleeping spots that are easier to access, avoiding high or hard-to-reach places.

Reduced Playfulness.

A painful cat is less likely to play. They may ignore toys like a laser pointer or a toy mouse, leading to reduced activity levels.

Overgrown Claws.

Due to reduced activity and scratching a cat’s claws may grow excessively long. They can curl and grow into the paw pads in severe cases, causing additional pain.Changes in grooming habits. A once beautifully groomed cat may suddenly develop greasy skin, and their fur may become dry and brittle. This often happens because their body hurts too much to bend and reach certain areas, like the back half of their body. You might notice normal hair on the front end but dry, brittle hair on the back.

Litter Box Issues.

High-sided or hard-to-access litter boxes can become a challenge for arthritic cats. This may result in accidents outside the litter box or urinating in inappropriate places.

Reduced Interaction.

Arthritic cats may become less social. They might stop greeting you at the door, sitting on your lap, or engaging in other affectionate behaviors.

Sensitivity to Handling.

Pain from arthritis can make cats grumpy or resistant to touch. They may grumble, hiss, scratch, or bite when picked up or handled, even if this behaviour is uncharacteristic.Avoidance of touch. Some cats can no longer handle regular petting sessions because their body is so sensitive.

Changes in Behavior and Personality.

A cat in chronic pain may appear grumpy, irritable, or aggressive. This personality change can be a hallmark of severe pain. Relieving this pain often results in a dramatic improvement in their demeanour.

Other Common Causes of Arthritis in Cats

1. Wear and tear are the most frequent causes of cat arthritis and are typically linked to aging. Over time, cartilage can degrade, leading to joint pain and stiffness.
2. Some breeds, such as Scottish Folds, Persians, Siamese, Maine Coons, and Abyssinians, are more predisposed to developing arthritis.
3. Past trauma, such as falls or car accidents, can damage cartilage and result in arthritis, even if the injury occurred some time ago.
4. Excess weight strains a cat’s joints and cartilage, significantly increasing the risk of arthritis.
5. Certain infections can damage cartilage and joint tissues, leading to arthritis.
6. Conditions like immune-mediated non-erosive polyarthritis, where the immune system attacks the joints, can also cause cat arthritis.
7. Arthritis can be a complication of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, which affects cats’ joints.
8. Infections can affect joints through a puncture wound, like a cat bite, or by spreading from another infected site via the bloodstream.
9. Acromegaly, caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland that results in excess growth hormone production, can lead to secondary arthritis in some cats.
10. While being overweight doesn’t directly cause arthritis in cats, the added strain on joints can lead to cartilage wear and inflammation, increasing the risk of arthritis later in life.

Arthritis Treatment for Cats

Modify Their Environment.

The first step is to make adjustments at home to accommodate your cat’s needs:

• Raise food bowls: This helps cats with back and neck arthritis by allowing them to eat without bending as much. You can purchase raised feeders or elevate the bowl by a few inches using a book or brick.
• Provide steps: Use cat steps to help your cat access high places like beds, sofas, or windows. These reduce the need for jumping, which can be painful.

When purchasing steps, keep these tips in mind.

1. Use a measuring tape to ensure the steps are high enough to reach the surface your cat needs.
2. Choose non-slip steps to prevent accidents.
3. Opt for wide treads so the steps are comfortable and safe for your cat.

I use four steps in my tiny house for my 14-year-old cat, and they make a big difference. He would still jump without them, but it would be much more difficult for him.

Play with Your Cat.

Arthritic cats still benefit from play, as it keeps them mentally engaged and helps maintain mobility. However, their condition means they may get tired or uncomfortable more quickly than younger, healthier cats. Instead of extended play sessions, opt for shorter, more frequent ones to match their energy levels and reduce strain. This allows them to enjoy interaction and exercise without overexertion.

Medical Treatments for Feline Arthritis

Traditional medical treatments often involve non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids prescribed by veterinarians.

• NSAIDs: These drugs reduce the production of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain, offering relief from discomfort. Common NSAIDs for cats include Meloxicam and Robenacoxib.
• Corticosteroids: are medications that help reduce inflammation and calm the immune system. They are often used when other anti-inflammatory drugs, like NSAIDs, don’t work or aren’t a good option. A typical example is Prednisolone, which is frequently prescribed for these purposes.

While effective, these medications may cause side effects such as stomach upset, kidney or liver problems (with NSAIDs), increased thirst, weight gain, and even diabetes (with corticosteroids). Regular veterinary supervision is essential to monitor your cat’s response, adjust dosages, and catch any potential side effects early.

The Rise of MSM Supplements.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a natural compound gaining popularity among cat owners for arthritis management. MSM reduces inflammation and relieves pain, offering comfort to cats with arthritis.

Some cat owners have reported seeing improvements in their pets’ activity and playfulness after introducing MSM supplements. However, scientific evidence supporting MSM’s effectiveness in cats is still limited. Consulting with a vet before using MSM is essential to assess potential risks, benefits, and proper dosage.
MSM should be viewed as a supportive supplement, not a replacement for traditional treatments.

The Glucosamine Debate.

Glucosamine is another popular ingredient in joint supplements, often used to promote joint health.

• Some studies suggest it may alleviate arthritis symptoms by promoting cartilage repair and reducing inflammation.
• However, other studies have shown inconclusive results and concerns about cats’ ability to metabolize glucosamine effectively.

Without established dosage guidelines, it’s challenging to determine the right amount to give. While glucosamine may help some cats, the evidence remains unclear, making it a topic of ongoing debate.

Herbal Remedies.

Herbal remedies like Devil’s Claw, Turmeric, and Boswellia are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are gaining attention in managing feline arthritis.

• Devil’s Claw: A plant native to Southern Africa, it has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, some cat owners report improving their pets’ arthritis symptoms.
• Boswellia: This plant produces Indian frankincense and is traditionally used for arthritis relief.

While these herbs can offer relief, their effectiveness varies among cats. Consulting a vet before using herbal remedies is vital to avoid potential interactions with other treatments.

A Multi-Faceted Approach to Feline Arthritis.

Managing arthritis in cats requires a holistic approach, combining traditional medicine, supplements, lifestyle changes, and regular veterinary checkups.

• Medications: NSAIDs and corticosteroids are effective but require careful monitoring.
• Supplements: MSM and glucosamine may offer additional support, but their efficacy needs further scientific backing.
• Herbs: Remedies like Devil’s Claw, Turmeric, and Boswellia can complement traditional treatments but should be used cautiously.

By exploring all available options and consulting with veterinarians, we can manage arthritis symptoms and improve our cats’ quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, managing arthritis in cats requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach to ensure their comfort and quality of life. Early detection and treatment are vital, as arthritis can significantly impact mobility, behavior, and overall well-being. By combining traditional medical treatments, such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids, with joint supplements, herbal remedies, and thoughtful environmental adjustments, we can help our feline companions live more comfortably. Regular veterinary checkups are essential to monitor progress, adjust treatments, and prevent complications. With proper care, patience, and attention to their needs, cats with arthritis can continue to lead happy, active, and fulfilling lives well into their senior years.