Caring for a cat with arthritis (2023)
Overview
Degenerative joint disease is often referred to as arthritis is common in older cats. Often arthritis develops very slowly and since it affects multiple joints on multiple limbs it can be difficult to spot: lameness is rarely a feature and more often the cat will adjust their activity levels and lifestyle to cope with the chronic pain they are suffering from. The most common signs spotted by owners are difficulties they notice in their cat’s ability to go up and/or down stairs, jump up and/or down, and running/playing. Signs of pain such as grumpiness and altered relationships within the home might also be evident. Diagnosis of arthritis is not always easy but management can make a big difference to the quality of life – whether through offering support for the ‘disabled’ cat (eg offering an indoor litter tray to a cat that previously toileted outside and low/easy access comfortable beds), special diets and joint supplements and painkillers.
Presenters
Sarah M. A. Caney
BVSc PhD DSAM(Feline) MRCVS, RCVS Specialist in Feline MedicineCEO
Vet Professionals
Sarah Caney is an internationally recognised specialist in feline medicine who has worked as a feline-only vet for more than twenty years. She trained as a specialist at the University of Bristol and is one of twelve recognised specialists in feline medicine working within the UK. Sarah has written or co-written four books published by her business Vet Professionals (www.vetprofessionals.com) including ‘Caring for an elderly cat’ and ‘Caring for a cat with chronic kidney disease’. Sarah conducts online owner surveys and has published much of her research results in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery.
