Arthritis is a general term for several conditions that cause painful joints and inflammation. Osteoarthritis, which results from bone deterioration, is common in both humans and cats, especially as we age. Your cat can’t tell you in words that there’s something wrong, but if they’re suffering from arthritis, you or a veterinarian can often tell from their behavior.

How to Identify Arthritis in Cats

1. Swollen Joints

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition, meaning the affected areas will be slightly swollen and warm to the touch whenever the condition flares up.

It can affect any joint, but it is most common in your cat’s shoulders, hips, elbows, knees, and ankles. If your cat will let you, you can gently feel these areas while petting them to see if you notice any changes.

2. Difficulty Moving

Due to arthritis pain and stiffness, your cat may have more trouble getting around. They might struggle to get up or lie down and might avoid running and jumping the same way they used to.

This can interfere with activities they used to enjoy, like playing or sitting in the window. Some even stop using the litterbox because it’s painful to climb over the side. You might also notice your cat walking stiffly or limping.

3. Avoiding Touch

Some cats with arthritis become protective of the affected areas and will try to avoid being touched there. Some stop allowing contact at all.

Your cat may even become unexpectedly aggressive if you accidentally hurt them by touching a sensitized joint, or if they’re afraid of being touched. If this is a change from their normal behavior, they should see a veterinarian immediately.

What to Do

If your cat has arthritis, you can help with soreness by providing extra soft bedding. Also, lay down mats or new flooring to keep them from skidding on slick surfaces, which can make it even more difficult for an arthritic cat to walk around the home.

Use a raised food and water dish at about the height of your cat’s elbows, so they don’t have to crouch down to eat. Provide a ramp or short stool to help them reach important locations, like the litter box or their favorite perch. In the meantime, you should also take them to a veterinarian for pet medication that can help reduce pain and even protect their bones from deterioration.

If you believe your cat may have arthritis, take them to see a veterinarian at Pet Center Ltd. in Columbia, MO. For 30 years, their experienced and dedicated team has acted as a full-service vet clinic for Boone County, offering everything from wellness exams and pet preventive care to an on-site pet medication pharmacy and laboratory. Call (573) 445-3000 to make an appointment, or visit their website today.