If your cat has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA), or simply seems to be slowing down, there are several ways to make them more comfortable. Cats with OA typically experience inflammation and pain in their joints. This pain often interferes with daily activities, and naturally, you want to do everything you can to keep your cat feeling frisky.
If you notice your cat limping, having trouble jumping, or showing symptoms of another mobility issue, it’s important to talk to your vet. While there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, your veterinarian may suggest one or a combination of several treatments, including nutraceuticals like SeaPet’s Super Joint Formula for Cats. Let’s take a more detailed look into the symptoms, causes, and treatments of OA.
What are some common symptoms of cat arthritis?
Cat owners often wonder how to tell if a cat has arthritis. Sometimes the symptoms will be obvious, and other times they may be nearly undetectable. Check out this list of symptoms to see you see any of these signs of arthritis in cats:
- Trouble going up or down stairs
- Difficulty or reluctance to jump up or down
- Limping or stiffness in the legs, particularly after periods of rest
- Irritability
- Reduced levels of activity
- Hiding or sleeping more than normal
- Difficulty using the litter box
- Grooming themselves less
Contrary to popular belief, OA can happen in cats of all ages, not just seniors. While none of these symptoms on their own are a definitive diagnosis of osteoarthritis, they are definitely worth getting checked out, no matter how old your cat is.
What causes arthritis in cats?
While there are many reasons that can increase a cat’s risk of developing arthritis, few are within the owner’s control. If you have an obese cat, consult your vet about putting your cat on a special diet. Not only is obesity unhealthy overall, but carrying extra weight around puts unnecessary stress on a cat’s bone structure.
Other than obesity, there are very few factors that are preventable. The aging process naturally introduces wear and tear, just like in our own bodies. Certain abnormalities in the joints and genetics can also contribute to a higher risk of OA. And if your cat has suffered a joint injury or fracture, this may factor in as well.
What can I give my cat for arthritis pain?
While there is no cure for cat arthritis, there are a variety of methods used by owners who are seeking to ease the effects of the symptoms of arthritis. Traditional medication is often the first idea that pops into an owner’s head, and of course, this can be an effective solution. However, there are many ways to provide cats with arthritis natural pain relief:
- DIY home improvements.
There are quite a few things that any owner can do to provide their cat with extra comfort. These include retiring old, worn pet bedding in favor of a new, supportive (maybe even heated!) bed. Other measures include raising food and water dishes to the proper height, providing stable nonskid floors, and adding a ramp or stepstool to aid in getting to favorite places.
- Exercise and physical therapy.
While exercise may seem like a counterintuitive treatment for a cat with OA, it can actually be a very helpful way to stave off or address the pain that’s caused by arthritis. Keeping a cat active with toys or food games can help to loosen their joints and keep their muscles from stiffening up, providing your cat with extra mobility. Some cats also enjoy gentle massage and even stretching.
- Prescription pharmaceuticals.
First off, a warning: never give your cat a medication that’s designed for humans or any other animals. The dosage or formula may be toxic or even fatal to felines. Stick to the medication that’s prescribed specifically for your cat, by your veterinarian.
Pharmaceuticals can be extremely effective when it comes to managing your cat’s arthritis symptoms, but they also have several risks as opposed to more natural methods. Pain medications can upset the stomach and affect kidney and liver function, so your cat will need to be monitored by your vet.
- Nutraceuticals.
One cat arthritis treatment that’s accessible and appropriate for almost any cat is nutraceuticals. These are natural supplements for cats with arthritis that are designed to pump up the production of compounds like collagen and reduce inflammation. Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two most commonly used supplements, and they are said to protect and even bolster collagen that joint cartilage needs to operate smoothly and painlessly.
All-natural joint supplements are a safe and non-toxic way to support good joint health, and in fact, are recommended by many vets. Plus, unlike some prescription medications, nutraceuticals are easy to give to your pet. Supplements available in powder or liquid form can be added right on top of food. Bingo dingo: down the hatch!
How to choose the best cat arthritis supplements
Natural pain relief for cats with arthritis is one of the most popular ways to address cat arthritis, but not all cat arthritis supplements are created equally. It’s important to look for a company that knows what they’re doing so you can be sure of what you’re getting. Third-party testing, responsible and sustainable harvesting of ingredients — these are all things we should think about when seeking natural supplements. And of course, don’t forget to consult your vet. They may have additional guidance on the dosage, and they can warn you of any potential medication contraindications.
When you’re looking for a joint supplement you can trust, turn to SeaPet. We’ve spent the last 25 years perfecting our cat arthritis supplements. Our Super Joint Formula Powder is cat-tested and owner-approved and gives your cat the glucosamine and chondroitin they need. Adding this supplement to your cat’s diet is a safe and easy way to support your cat’s joint health, letting them live a more comfortable life. For owners interested in trying a natural solution to joint pain caused by OA, try SeaPet’s Super Joint Formula Powder today.