Is your cat having problems getting around? It could be feline osteoarthritis
Feline osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects cats. It can occur in any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hips, knees, elbows, and spine.
The condition is more common in older cats, but can also affect younger cats as a result of trauma, secondary to declawing, genetic predisposition or developmental disorders.
Feline osteoarthritis can be difficult to diagnose, as cats are masters at hiding their pain. However, there are several signs and symptoms that cat owners can look out for, such as limping, stiffness, reluctance to jump or climb, difficulty walking or standing, reduced activity levels and changes in behavior, such as irritability or aggression. Some cats might also become more vocal or meow more frequently than usual.
To diagnose feline osteoarthritis, veterinarians will perform a physical examination of the cat's joints and might also take X-rays or other imaging tests (digatherm) to evaluate the severity of the condition. Blood tests might be done to rule out other underlying conditions that might be causing joint pain.
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Once a diagnosis has been made, there are several management options that can help improve the cat's quality of life and alleviate pain. These include:
Managing your cat's weight
Excess weight puts additional strain on the cat's joints, so maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. This can be achieved through a combination of diet and exercise.
Medications might help
There are several medications that can be used to manage feline osteoarthritis, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids and opioids. These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation and improve joint mobility. However, they should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian, as some medications can have side effects or interact with other medications. Common NSAIDs used include the FDA-approved Onsior and off-label Meloxidyl.
Monoclonal antibodies
The new monoclonal antibody drug Solensia is a new option with few (if any) side effects that treats arthritic pain. It is a monthly subcutaneous injection.
Nutrition can help
Nutritional supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help improve joint health and reduce inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants might also be beneficial.
Acupuncture and physical therapy
Acupuncture and physical therapy can help improve joint mobility and reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis. This includes massage and stretching.
Changing the environment
Modifying the cat's environment can also help reduce pain and improve mobility. Also, providing soft bedding, ramps or steps to help the cat climb onto furniture or beds, and litter boxes with lower sides will make it easier for the cat to enter and exit.
Feline osteoarthritis is a common condition that can have a significant impact on a cat's quality of life. Early diagnosis and management can help improve joint health and reduce pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
If you suspect that your cat is suffering from osteoarthritis, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to discuss management options and develop a treatment plan tailored to your cat's specific needs.
This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Is your cat having problems getting around? Could be osteoarthritis
