Arthritis in Cats: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Arthritis has only fairly recently been recognised as a major and widespread health issue in cats. Improved veterinary understanding has made the condition easier to identify, while newer treatments have made it more manageable for many affected pets.

The condition is especially common in older cats. Although some cats show obvious signs of discomfort, many hide pain well, which means owners may only notice small changes in movement, mood or daily routine.

What Causes Arthritis in Cats?

The most common cause is degenerative joint disease. This happens when joints are gradually damaged by everyday wear and tear. Over time, the joint surfaces and nearby tissues can become inflamed, leading to stiffness and pain.

Age-related joint damage is the main reason arthritis develops. In senior cats over the age of 12, some degree of degenerative joint disease is very common.

Other possible causes include inherited joint problems, such as poor conformation or hip dysplasia, which can make cats more vulnerable to joint damage. Trauma or joint instability can also increase wear and tear. Less common forms include septic arthritis, caused by infection in a joint, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is linked to immune system disease.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Arthritis pain is not always easy to spot. Cats often mask discomfort, so the first signs may appear as subtle changes in behaviour rather than clear distress.

Limping or lameness is one of the more obvious signs, especially when a painful joint is affected. Some cats simply move more slowly, walk instead of run, or seem reluctant to play as much as before.

A stiff gait can also develop. The back legs may move in a straighter, shorter-stepping pattern than usual. Cats with arthritis may struggle to jump onto beds, sofas or favourite resting places, and stairs may become more difficult.

Some cats also find it harder to get in and out of the litter box. Others become quieter, less active or more withdrawn because they are living with ongoing low-level pain.

How Vets Diagnose Arthritis

A veterinary examination is the best starting point if arthritis is suspected. A vet will usually ask for a detailed history, including any changes noticed at home. Videos of a cat struggling to climb stairs, jump or rise from rest can be especially useful.

During the physical exam, the vet may gently feel, flex and extend individual joints to check for swelling, stiffness or signs of pain.

X-rays may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. These can show typical changes around affected joints. In some cases, X-rays may be reviewed by a veterinary radiologist to look for early or subtle changes. Advanced imaging such as CT or MRI is rarely needed but may be considered for more complex cases.

Activity trackers worn on a collar are a newer option that can help monitor changes in movement. They may assist with diagnosis and can also help track whether treatment is improving a cat’s activity level.

Treatment Options for Arthritic Cats

Treatment often works best when several approaches are combined. This is sometimes described as a multi-modal plan, using medication, lifestyle changes and supportive care together.

Pain relief is usually the central part of treatment. One newer option is frunevetmab, sold under the brand name Solensia. It is a monoclonal antibody designed to target feline nerve growth factor, which is involved in sending pain signals from inflamed joints. It is a prescription-only monthly injection given by a veterinarian.

Some cats improve within several days of receiving the injection, with effects lasting around four weeks. Possible side effects can include local skin reactions, vomiting, diarrhoea or discomfort at the injection site, although these effects have generally been described as mild.

Before monoclonal antibody treatment became available, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, often called NSAIDs, were one of the main pain relief options. Meloxicam is commonly used in cats, but these medications must be used carefully. Cats with liver or kidney problems may be at higher risk of adverse effects, so blood tests and ongoing monitoring may be recommended.

Other pain-relieving medicines, such as gabapentin, may help some cats with long-term pain, although they do not treat the joint inflammation itself.

Some cats may be given joint-modifying treatments such as glycosaminoglycans, including Adequan, by injection under the skin. Nutritional supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate and omega-3 fatty acids may also be considered, either as separate supplements or as part of joint-support diets.

Supportive therapies such as massage, physiotherapy, laser therapy and acupuncture can be useful for some patients. Weight management is also important, especially for overweight cats, because reducing body weight lowers pressure on painful joints.

Home Care and Environmental Support

Owners should be cautious about home remedies. Cats can be highly sensitive to medicines that may be safer for dogs or humans, so treatment decisions should always be made with veterinary guidance.

Making the home more arthritis-friendly can help a great deal. A warm, comfortable sleeping area can make rest easier. Ramps or steps can help cats reach favourite places without needing to jump.

If stairs are difficult, food, water and litter trays can be placed in more accessible locations. A litter box with lower sides may also make toileting easier for a stiff or painful cat.

Weight control is one of the most useful home-care measures for overweight cats. Obesity increases stress on the joints, while weight loss can reduce pressure and help relieve pain.

Can Arthritis Be Prevented?

Arthritis cannot always be prevented, especially because joint wear often increases with age. However, some steps may reduce the risk or lessen the severity.

Genetics can play a role, so choosing kittens from parents without arthritis or known joint problems may help reduce inherited risk.

Keeping cats at a healthy weight is one of the most important protective measures. Extra body weight places more strain on the joints and can accelerate wear and tear.

Regular activity also supports joint health. Active cats tend to maintain stronger muscles, which can help keep joints moving more comfortably. When cats become inactive, joints may stiffen and arthritic changes can worsen.

Key Takeaway

Arthritis is a common condition in senior cats and can cause pain, stiffness, limping and reluctance to move, jump or climb. Once diagnosed, it can often be managed with a combination of veterinary treatment, pain relief, weight control and changes around the home.

Because cats are particularly vulnerable to medication toxicity, owners should never give pain relief or home remedies without veterinary advice. With the right support, many arthritic cats can remain more comfortable and active.