Helping Your Cat with Osteoarthritis

A diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA) in your cat can feel upsetting and overwhelming. The good news is that many cats with OA continue to enjoy active, happy lives with appropriate treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing veterinary care.

What is osteoarthritis (OA)?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, degenerative disease in which the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears down, leading to inflammation, stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. OA is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting cats. While it cannot be cured or reversed, early and ongoing management can help maintain your cat’s comfort and quality of life.

Once a cat is diagnosed with OA the focus shifts from cure to management. Success means maximizing your cat’s comfort and function while minimizing pain. Fortunately, there are many strategies that can help cats live well with OA.

What is the first thing I should do to help my cat with OA?

Create a true partnership with your veterinarian. Regular evaluations allow your veterinarian to monitor the progression of OA and to modify the treatment plan.

Consider keeping a journal or notebook dedicated to your cat’s OA care. Write down questions as they arise and bring the notebook to veterinary appointments to record answers to your questions, as well as to note details of any updated veterinary recommendations. Recording recommendations, medication changes, and observations about your cat’s mobility can help you track progress and make the most of each visit.

Can my cat’s weight make a difference in managing OA?

Yes, maintaining a lean body condition is one of the best ways to reduce stress on arthritic joints. If your cat is carrying extra weight, work with your veterinarian to create a safe weight-loss plan. Your veterinarian may prescribe a diet that supports joint health while helping your cat lose weight. Ask for specific feeding recommendations and schedule regular weigh-ins to monitor success. It is a myth that cats need to eat at will. They can easily learn to eat two measured meals a day, and this is a big step toward getting your cat back in shape.

Can exercise help OA?

Yes, regular, controlled exercise is beneficial for most cats with OA. With OA joints, cats need to “use it or lose it.” Most cats can learn to use a harness and leash, which allows them to go on walks with human family members. Cats may also enjoy chasing the light from a laser pointer or chasing a feather toy on a casting rod. You can also place their food in multiple areas of the house or in a treat ball so they must “hunt” to eat.

What should I know about the medications, nutraceuticals, or supplements my veterinarian prescribed for my cat?

• Use all medications and supplements exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Do not change doses, stop medications, or change dosing schedules unless you are instructed to do so.
• Ask your veterinarian about possible side effects and monitor your cat carefully. If you see any adverse side effects from medications, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Do not give any over-the-counter supplements without discussing them with your veterinarian first. Cats are extremely sensitive to certain herbal ingredients and can become ill if they are exposed to them.

What other veterinary management options are available?

Many cats benefit from a multimodal approach that combines medications, nutrition, weight management, exercise, and supportive therapies. Some cats may also benefit from physical medicine options such as:

• Physical rehabilitation
• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic
• Laser therapy
• Medical massage

It is important to work with qualified and credentialed professionals, so seek your veterinarian’s guidance for a referral. Physical medicine may allow for decreased doses of medication over time by helping to restore more normal movement and strength in the cat’s body.

How can I modify my home to maximize my cat’s comfort?

Simple changes around the home can make daily activities easier and more comfortable for cats with OA.

Feeding and water stations: Raised food and water bowls can reduce strain on the neck and back and make mealtimes more enjoyable. Bowls placed between your cat’s elbow and shoulder level are often the most comfortable. Consider placing food and water stations in easily accessible locations so your cat does not have to climb stairs or jump frequently to reach them.

Access to favorite places: Many cats enjoy resting on windowsills, furniture, or other elevated areas. Providing stable step stools, ottomans, ramps, or carpeted pet stairs can make it easier and safer for your cat to reach these favorite spots.

Warmth and shelter: Keep your cat warm and dry. Cold, damp conditions may worsen stiffness and discomfort. Outdoor living is generally not recommended for cats with OA. Cats with mobility challenges may have more difficulty escaping dangers, defending themselves, or navigating uneven terrain outdoors.

Comfortable sleeping areas: Consider providing your cat with an orthopedic or memory foam bed to reduce pressure on sore joints and improve sleep quality. Place comfortable resting areas in locations that are easy to access and close to the areas where your cat spends most of its time.

Litter box access: Easy access to litter boxes is especially important for cats with OA. Consider placing a litter box on each floor of your home to reduce the need to climb stairs. Low-sided litter boxes can make entering and exiting more comfortable for cats with limited mobility.

Improve Traction Around the Home: Slippery flooring can make it difficult for cats with OA to walk, turn, jump, and rise comfortably. Improving traction can help your cat move more confidently and safely throughout the home. Consider:

• Yoga mats or area rugs with non-skid backing
• Interlocking foam floor tiles (such as those used on children’s play surfaces) that can be customized to fit larger areas
• Carpet runners in hallways and frequently used spaces

Work with your veterinarian to expand and fine-tune these options for your cat. With a bit of imagination and creative thought, you can help your cat with OA enjoy a long, happy, and comfortable life.