Cats are said to be moody and introverted but once they get comfortable with you, they will love you whole-heartedly and will make your lives brighter and happier. But as pet parents, are you doing enough to reciprocate the same amount of love and care to your feline friend? If your answer is no, then what stops you from providing these cute furballs a happy and healthy life?
Your feline energy suffers from many diseases throughout its life and Arthritis – a joint condition – is one of the most common. It often goes undiagnosed because of a lack of awareness among pet parents. Fret not! We are here to help you with this.
In this blog, we will provide enough information about feline arthritis so that you can manage the condition before it gets too late.
What is Cat Arthritis?
Cat Arthritis is a chronic condition that generally develops in the joints of cats as they age. The gradual loss of cartilage that cushions the joints makes the bones to grind against each other, leading to stiffness, pain and discomfort. Arthritis affects approximately 80% of cats from 10 years of age and is not fully curable but can be managed and slowed down with the right approach.
What Causes Feline Arthritis?
Arthritis in felines can occur because of multiple reasons, known or unknown.
Let’s have a look at the most common reasons that cause cat arthritis:
- Bone wear & tear
- Obesity
- Injury
- Infection
- Genetics
- Trauma
- Lyme Disease caused by Deer Ticks
What are the Signs of Cat Arthritis?
The early symptoms of cat arthritis often go unnoticed which leads to late a diagnosis of the condition.
Here are some symptoms to watch out for that can help in detecting the disease at an early stage and managing it before it advances:
- Swollen joints
- Reluctant to jump or play
- Painful and inflamed joints
- Behaviour changes
- Lethargy and irritability
- Difficulty in climbing the stairs
- Increased sleep
- Reduced physical activity
- Less socialising
- Difficulty using the litter box
- Reduced time in grooming
How to Manage Feline Arthritis?
Arthritis in cats cannot be completely cured but by following the right course of action, you can slow down the process and reduce the pain.
Here are a few easy tips that can help you in managing the condition and keeping your cat healthy:
Nutritious Diet
One of the most effective ways to protect your feline friend from potential joint-related conditions is by feeding them a diet filled with vitamins and minerals. This will not only promote healthy bones but will also maintain their overall well-being. A well-balanced diet is the key to keep bones strong and maintain mobility.
Weight Management
Just like humans, cats need to stay in shape to avoid diseases in the long run. Being overweight not only increases the risk of multiple serious diseases but also puts additional stress on joints, causing pain and discomfort in already aching joints. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce inflammation, especially in senior cats and ensure better movement.
Regular Exercise
Taking your cat for regular walks and sticking to a strict exercise routine keeps them moving. Make sure you do not overdo it and be patient with your cat.
Joint Care Supplements
There are various joint care supplements available in the market that help reduce pain and swelling in the joints. These supplements are packed with required amounts of nutrients for joint health. Paw Osteosupport Joint Care Powder is one such supplement that is easy to administer and works well in maintaining healthy joints. Always administer the supplement under vet supervision.
Routine Vet Checkups
Consulting the vet regularly can help diagnose joint-related conditions at an early stage and manage the symptoms of arthritis effectively.
Final Words
Arthritis in cats, if not managed properly can hamper their everyday activities and mood. Arthritis can become severe without proper care and management, resulting in permanent damage to joints and mobility. Therefore, it is crucial to keep a check on your cat if they show any of the above-mentioned symptoms and follow the tips enlisted in the blog to ensure their overall well-being and improve their quality of life.