Osteoarthritis in cats

If your cat has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, knowing more about the disease can help you provide them with a better quality of life.

About 90% of cats aged 12 years and older show signs of osteoarthritis on X-rays. 

What is osteoarthritis?

The word osteoarthritis is a combination of Greek word parts: “osteo” for bone, “arthr” for joint, and “itis” for inflammation. It results from the progressive loss of joint cartilage, thickening of connective tissue around the joint and the development of spur-like bony growths that cause pain with movement. 

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the hips, knees, shoulders, elbows and wrists. Cats can develop the condition from prior injury or surgery, body conformation, weight, abnormal joint development, or gradual wear and tear. Many cats show only vague signs of osteoarthritis pain.

What are common signs of osteoarthritis in cats?

Early signs include:

• Decreased activity
• Unkempt haircoat
• Reclusive or heat-seeking behaviour
  

Intermediate or advanced signs include:

• Change in walk
• Stiffness on rising
• Reluctance to use stairs, or jump
• Irritability
• Decreased appetite
• Thickened joints
• Difficulty using the litter box

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How is osteoarthritis managed in cats? 

The goal of osteoarthritis management is to reduce discomfort and minimise further joint damage. Multi-modal treatment options for cats include weight reduction, omega-3 fatty acid supplements, cartilage protective supplements and injections, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, acupuncture and laser treatment. 

Cats with osteoarthritis need regular vet visits to monitor their status and prognosis. Discussing a personalised management plan with your vet is important for the best outcome for your cat.

What is the prognosis for cats?

Osteoarthritis prognosis depends on the disease stage and your cat’s treatment response. Cats with well-managed osteoarthritis, including at-home adjustments, can live a relatively comfortable and normal life. Unfortunately, it is a progressive disease that may worsen over time.

Management tips for a cat with osteoarthritis

At-home needs include:

• A low-sided litter box for easy access, and a comfortable bed
• Raised food and water dishes
• Consistency with prescribed medications and supplements
• Modified surfaces to increase traction
• Physical therapy, and safe, regular exercise
• Stairs or ramps to help your cat reach higher surfaces
• Keeping your cat indoors to avoid predators
• Monitoring appetite, drinking, urination, defecation and activity level
  

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep your cat safe and comfortable
• Ensure they get adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your cat’s quality of life with our scoring tool, here 
  

In a crisis:

Immediately contact your vet if your cat stops eating; has medication side effects, cannot walk, shows aggression; or vocalises in pain.

It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your cat’s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life. 

At Goodbye Good Boy, we provide home euthanasia services to support loving owners in providing a peaceful passing for their beloved pets.

The team at Goodbye Good Boy offers individualised support to help you and your family navigate this difficult time by providing quality-of-life checks, in-home euthanasia, cremation and aftercare services, and personalised memorialisation options. 

To learn more about our pet end-of-life services, give our team of passionate pet lovers a call on 1800 953 619.

This article was reproduced with permission from Goodbye Good Boy advisor Dr Dani McVety, of Lap Of Love.