Arthritis in Cats
Arthritis, usually osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a common source of chronic pain in cats. Because cats often hide discomfort, early changes like reduced jumping, stiffness, or less grooming can be easy to miss.
Schedule a vet visit if you notice mobility changes
Arthritis in cats is usually not a sudden emergency, but it is a painful condition that deserves veterinary attention. Cats commonly hide pain, so subtle signs like hesitation to jump, stiffness, hiding, house-soiling, or irritability should prompt a veterinary appointment. Seek urgent same-day care if your cat cannot bear weight, cries out in pain, has sudden paralysis, or seems severely distressed.
Symptoms to Watch For
Less jumping or climbing
Your cat may stop jumping onto favorite spots or use intermediate steps like chairs.
Stiff or slower movement
Walking may look stiff, cautious, or less fluid, especially after resting.
Hiding or reduced activity
Cats with joint pain may sleep more, play less, and become more reclusive.
Poor grooming or over-grooming
Pain can make it hard to reach certain areas, leading to a scruffy coat or licking a sore spot.
Irritability when handled
A cat with painful joints may resist petting, brushing, or being picked up.
Litter box changes
Trouble stepping into the box can lead to accidents or house-soiling.
What Causes Arthritis
In cats, arthritis usually refers to osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease. It involves inflammation and gradual joint degeneration that leads to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Cornell notes that osteoarthritis is the most frequently diagnosed feline joint disorder and that signs are often subtle. Causes and contributors can include previous joint injury, long-term wear and tear, developmental joint problems, obesity, and other diseases that affect joint structure. Arthritis can occur in younger cats too, but it becomes more noticeable with age.
- Aging and long-term joint wear
- Previous trauma, fractures, or ligament injury
- Abnormal joint development such as hip dysplasia or luxating patellas
- Excess body weight, which increases strain on joints
- Past orthopedic surgery or joint infection
- Breed-related risk where hip dysplasia is involved, especially Maine Coons
How It's Diagnosed
Diagnosis starts with a detailed history because owners often notice behavior changes before obvious limping. Your veterinarian will ask about jumping, stair use, grooming, litter box habits, and temperament. A physical and orthopedic exam helps identify painful joints, reduced range of motion, muscle loss, or stiffness. X-rays are commonly used to look for joint changes, although imaging findings do not always perfectly match how much pain a cat feels. Your vet may also recommend bloodwork or urine testing before starting certain pain medications and to rule out other conditions that can mimic mobility problems.
- History of subtle behavior and mobility changes at home
- Full physical and orthopedic examination
- Radiographs (X-rays) of affected joints
- Blood and urine tests when needed before medication use
- Assessment for other causes such as injury, neurologic disease, or systemic illness
Treatment Options
Arthritis cannot usually be cured, so treatment focuses on pain control, function, and quality of life. Most cats do best with multimodal care. Veterinarians may recommend weight management, environmental changes, physical rehabilitation, and prescription pain control. FDA-approved frunevetmab (Solensia) is indicated for control of pain associated with osteoarthritis in cats. Other medications may be used based on the individual cat's health status, but never give human pain relievers or any medication unless your veterinarian specifically advises it. In severe cases linked to structural joint disease, surgery may sometimes be discussed.
- Weight management to reduce stress on joints
- Prescription pain control tailored to your cat
- Monthly frunevetmab injection may be an option for feline osteoarthritis pain
- Home modifications like ramps, low-sided litter boxes, and padded bedding
- Physical therapy, rehabilitation, or acupuncture when recommended
- Surgical options in select advanced orthopedic cases
Living with Arthritis
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my cat has arthritis?
Do cats limp when they have arthritis?
Can arthritis in cats be cured?
What age do cats get arthritis?
Can I give my cat over-the-counter pain medicine?
Are some cat breeds more likely to have arthritis?
Sources
- Cornell Feline Health Center: Is Your Cat Slowing Down?
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Cats
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Arthritis in Cats
- Feline Veterinary Medical Association: Degenerative Joint Disease in Cats
- Arthritis in Cats: Signs, Treatment & Pain Management — SpectrumCare
- Spectrum Care — Cat Arthritis in Cats — Spectrum Care
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.