Is your cat jumping less, not grooming themselves like usual, failing to use the litterbox, or seeming to slow down? These subtle changes can be early signs of feline arthritis. Arthritis in cats is a common condition that causes joint inflammation and stiffness, making everyday movements uncomfortable over time.
In this Sploot Vets guide, we talk about the common signs of arthritis in cats, the signs to look out for, treatment for arthritis in cats, and possible home remedies that may be helpful in some cases.
What is Arthritis in Cats?
Arthritis in cats is a condition that causes inflammation, stiffness, and pain in one or more joints. Over time, this inflammation can limit a cat’s ability to move comfortably and perform normal activities like jumping, climbing, or grooming.
There are different types of arthritis in cats, and the underlying cause can vary. Depending on the type of arthritis, a cat may experience joint pain alone or pain combined with structural damage to the joint itself.
Signs of Arthritis in Cats
Even though there are different types of arthritis in cats, many signs are shared across conditions. These signs are typically linked to pain in cats, caused by arthritis. The most common signs of arthritis in cats include:
- Decreased jumping or reluctance to climb
- Stiffness or reduced mobility
- Limping or favoring a limb
- Reduced activity or playfulness
- Changes in grooming habits (overgrooming painful joints or grooming less overall)
- Behavioral changes (increased irritability, hiding, or withdrawal)
- Difficulty stepping into the box or peeing outside of the litterbox
Meanwhile, these symptoms may point to a specific type of feline arthritis:
- Sudden lameness, joint swelling, fever→ possibly septic arthritis in cats
- Shifting leg lameness and/or multiple joints are affected → possibly immune-mediated polyarthritis in cats
Treatment for Arthritis in Cats
Treatment for arthritis in cats depends on the specific type of arthritis involved. The underlying cause of the arthritis determines which therapies will be most effective.
1. Treating Osteoarthritis in Cats
Osteoarthritis in cats, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is the most common type of arthritis in cats and is often severely underdiagnosed. Because cats instinctively hide pain, the signs of joint disease can be subtle and easily overlooked by pet parents.
The usual treatment for osteoarthritis in cats includes:
- Primary: anti-inflammatory medication, pain meds for cats, monoclonal antibody therapy (Solensia monthly injection)
- Supportive: joint supplements for cats, weight management, physical therapy, cold laser therapy, veterinary acupuncture, and/or lifestyle modifications
Note: Osteoarthritis in cats cannot be reversed or fully cured. However, the early treatment of this condition can help slow down joint damage and reduce complications.
2. Treating Post-Traumatic Arthritis in Cats
Post-traumatic arthritis in cats develops after a joint injury, such as a fracture, dislocation, or ligament damage. Adventurous cats, active cats, and outdoor cats are particularly at risk. Joint damage from trauma can lead to long-term inflammation and arthritis months or even years later after the accident.
This kind of feline arthritis is typically treated with:
- Primary: anti-inflammatories, pain management
- Supportive: joint supplements for cats, physical therapy, cold laser therapy, carefully guided weight management, and/or veterinary acupuncture
- For consideration: veterinary surgery to repair the injury
Note: This form of arthritis in cats may be partially or mostly reversible, depending on how quickly treatment begins and how much joint damage has already occurred.
3. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis Treatment in Cats
Immune-mediated polyarthritis in cats occurs when a cat’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation and pain. In cats, this condition is uncommon and is often associated with underlying issues such as chronic infections, inflammatory diseases, or immune-related disorders, including FeLV or FIV.
This kind of feline arthritis is typically treated with:
- Primary: immunosuppressant medications along with compatible anti-inflammatory/pain medications
- For consideration: treatment for underlying conditions or triggers
Note: IMPA in cats cannot be permanently cured, but, with treatment, many cats can achieve periods of remission. Because the condition involves immune system dysfunction, future flare-ups are possible.
4. Septic Arthritis in Cats Treatment
Septic arthritis in cats is caused by an infection within a joint, most commonly bacteria. Cats are at higher risk if they’ve sustained any recent bite wounds, punctures, or penetrating injuries that introduce bacteria directly into the joint space. Aside from joint inflammation, this type of arthritis can be accompanied by a fever and lethargy.
In many cases, septic arthritis in cats is considered a veterinary emergency because the infection can spread in the cat’s system, potentially causing life-threatening sepsis. If you suspect that your cat has this type of arthritis, contact an urgent care or emergency veterinarian so your cat can receive prompt treatment.
This type of feline arthritis is typically treated with:
- Primary: IV antibiotics, pain management, and joint flushing (i.e., washing out the infection, debris, and inflammatory cells with saline)
- For consideration: hospitalization – for cats that have accompanying symptoms (fever, lethargy) that may signal systemic illness
Note: Septic arthritis in cats can be reversible if treated quickly. However, if treatment is delayed, the infection within the joint may cause irreversible cartilage damage, leading to chronic arthritis and potentially serious systemic complications as well.
5. Dysplasia-Related Secondary Feline Arthritis Treatment
Secondary arthritis in cats can develop as a result of joint abnormalities like hip or elbow dysplasia. While dysplasia is much less common in cats than in dogs, it is most often seen in large-breed cats such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls. These cats may show few signs early on, with arthritis developing gradually over time.
This kind of arthritis in cats is typically treated with the following:
- Primary: anti-inflammatories, pain medications
- Supportive: weight management, joint supplements for cats, physical therapy, and/or cold laser therapy
- For consideration: corrective surgery for hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia
Note: Corrective surgery for hip/elbow dysplasia cannot reverse arthritis in cats, but it may significantly improve comfort by reducing joint stress, limiting further damage, or replacing a severely affected joint altogether, such as through total hip replacement (THR).
4 Arthritis Medications for Cats
There are various kinds of medications prescribed for arthritis in cats; these include the following:
1. Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Meds for Cat Arthritis
Anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications for cats are a primary part of treatment for most types of arthritis in cats, including osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and dysplasia-related arthritis. These medications help reduce inflammation and improve comfort.
Feline-approved NSAIDs (e.g., robenacoxib and meloxicam), which reduce pain and inflammation, are considered first-line treatment options, as long as they are tolerated well by the cat.
Monoclonal antibody therapy (e.g., frunevetmab or Solensia), which also reduces pain and inflammation through another mechanism, is most commonly considered for cats with chronic osteoarthritis, particularly when long-term NSAID use is not well tolerated.
2. Joint Supplements for Cats
Joint supplements for cats are typically used as a secondary treatment for arthritis in cats when there is damage to the joint, such as with osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or dysplasia-related arthritis.
With a combination of beneficial ingredients (e.g., chondroitin, glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids), joint supplements can support cartilage health, as well as joint lubrication and flexibility. However, they are not typically used as a standalone treatment.
3. Immunosuppressants for Cat Arthritis
Immunosuppressive medications are primarily used to treat immune-mediated polyarthritis in cats. These drugs work by reducing abnormal immune system activity that targets the joints and causes inflammation.
Corticosteroids such as prednisolone are commonly prescribed as first-line therapy for IMPA in cats. It works by broadly suppressing immune system activity and inflammation.
In some cases, prednisolone alone may not provide adequate control or may cause unacceptable side effects. Other immunosuppressant medications (e.g., cyclosporine, chlorambucil, methotrexate) can be considered to improve disease control or to reduce/discontinue corticosteroid usage.
4. Antibiotics for Cat Arthritis
Antibiotics are the main treatment for septic arthritis in cats, as this condition is caused by infection within the joint. Cats are often hospitalized initially to receive intravenous antibiotics and joint flushing. After discharge, oral antibiotics are commonly continued at home for several weeks to clear the infection fully.
Supportive Treatments for Cat Arthritis
1. Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy for cats, also known as low-level laser therapy, uses targeted light energy to help reduce inflammation and support tissue healing around affected joints. In cats with arthritis, this therapy may help improve comfort and mobility by decreasing pain and promoting circulation in the treated area. Cold laser therapy is non-invasive, painless, and often used as a supportive treatment alongside medications for chronic, non-septic arthritis.
2. Physical Therapy for Cat Arthritis
Physical therapy focuses on maintaining joint mobility, muscle strength, and overall function in cats with arthritis. Physical therapy for feline arthritis may include gentle range-of-motion exercises, controlled movement, and strengthening activities tailored to the cat’s tolerance.
3. Acupuncture for Cat Arthritis
Acupuncture involves the placement of fine needles at specific points on the body to help modulate pain and inflammation. For some cats with arthritis, veterinary acupuncture may provide additional pain relief by stimulating the nervous system and encouraging the release of natural pain-modulating chemicals.
Acupuncture is typically used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatment and may benefit cats with chronic arthritis who cannot tolerate certain medications.
Home Remedies for Arthritis in Cats
In most cases, home remedies for arthritis in cats are not enough. In addition, relying only on at-home care, especially without a veterinary diagnosis, can lead to long-term or even life-threatening complications.
However, certain treatments may be safely done at home after being prescribed or recommended by a veterinarian. These approaches are supportive in nature and are most effective when used alongside medical treatment (e.g., anti-inflammatory medications, pain meds, etc).
1. Warm Compresses
Warm compresses may help relieve stiffness and improve comfort in cats with osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and dysplasia-related arthritis. They should be used only for short periods and only while your cat is calm and receptive. Heat can improve circulation to stiff joints, but only if your cat tolerates handling and the compress is comfortably warm, not hot.
Note: Do NOT use warm compresses on acute joint injuries, swollen joints, or suspected infections. In addition, ALWAYS wrap the compress in a towel for safety, and feel the compress first before applying it to your cat.
2. Joint Supplements for Cats
Joint supplements for cats may help support cartilage health and joint function in cats with osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and dysplasia-related arthritis.
These supplements often contain ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids and are intended to complement (not replace) medical treatment. A veterinarian can recommend appropriate options and dosing based on your cat’s specific condition.
3. Weight Management to Alleviate Feline Arthritis
Maintaining a healthy weight is an important part of managing arthritis in cats, as excess weight places additional stress on already painful joints.
For overweight cats, a veterinarian may recommend gradual weight loss using prescription weight loss cat food. After reaching a healthy weight, transitioning to a calorie-controlled indoor cat food can help prevent future weight gain and support long-term joint comfort.
4. Creating an Arthritis-Friendly Cat Environment
Simple changes to your cat’s environment can make daily movement more comfortable for cats with arthritis. Providing ramps or steps to favorite resting spots, using low-entry litter boxes, and placing food and water in easily accessible areas can reduce joint strain. These modifications are beneficial for most cats with chronic arthritis and help maintain a good quality of life for them.
How We Treat Cat Arthritis at Sploot Vets
At Sploot Veterinary Care, we take a personalized, multimodal approach to treating arthritis in cats. Every treatment plan begins with an accurate diagnosis supported by veterinary expertise and in-house laboratory services, allowing us to address both pain and the underlying cause of joint disease.
1. Physical Exam or Check-Up
A thorough physical exam is the first step. Our veterinarians assess your cat’s mobility, joint comfort, muscle condition, and overall health to better understand the severity and impact of feline arthritis. Sploot Vets clinics also have a Fear Free veterinary approach, prioritizing your cat’s comfort and minimizing stress throughout the visit.
If your cat shows sudden pain, severe limping, joint swelling, or abrupt behavioral changes, we offer urgent vet care, 365 days a year, for immediate treatment of suspected acute arthritis and other concerning behavioral changes
2. In-House Veterinary Diagnostics & Imaging
We offer convenient, in-house veterinary diagnostics, including imaging, to confirm the presence of arthritis and determine its type and severity.
Diagnostics allow us to distinguish between degenerative arthritis and more serious conditions such as immune-mediated or septic arthritis, ensuring timely and appropriate care.
3. Personalized Treatment Plan for Arthritis in Cats
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, we create a customized treatment plan tailored to your cat’s specific type of arthritis, age, lifestyle, and overall health. Treatment often includes medications to manage pain and inflammation, while conditions like immune-mediated polyarthritis or septic arthritis are diagnosed promptly and treated urgently with appropriate immunosuppressants or antibiotics.
For cats with chronic arthritis, we focus on long-term comfort and mobility through supportive therapies such as weight management with prescription or indoor cat food, joint supplements, cold laser therapy, physical therapy, and acupuncture. This multimodal approach helps improve quality of life while slowing disease progression.
Final Thoughts on Arthritis in Cats
This wraps up our guide about arthritis in cats. As a final note, here are some answers to common questions pet parents ask about this condition:
How Long Will a Cat Live With Arthritis?
Cats can live long, comfortable lives with arthritis when the condition is properly managed. Arthritis itself is not life-limiting, and many cats continue to enjoy a good quality of life with the right combination of veterinary care, pain management, and lifestyle support.
What Food is Good for a Cat With Arthritis?
Nutrition plays an important role in supporting joint health and managing arthritis in cats. Your veterinarian can recommend certain cat foods that will be beneficial for your cat’s condition. These can include the following:
Note: Always consult your veterinarian before changing your cat’s diet, as nutritional needs can vary based on overall health and concurrent conditions.
1. Cat Food With Mobility Support
Mobility-support cat foods can be recommended for adult cats with chronic or early signs of arthritis. This type of cat food contains ingredients that support joint health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
2. Senior Cat Food
Senior cat food is often a good choice for older cats with osteoarthritis. Many formulas are tailored to aging cats and include joint-supporting nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, along with balanced protein levels to support muscle mass and mobility.
3. Indoor Cat Food
For indoor cats with arthritis, maintaining a healthy weight is especially important. Indoor cat food is typically calorie-controlled to help prevent weight gain, which can place additional strain on painful joints. Keeping your cat at an ideal weight can help reduce arthritis symptoms and slow disease progression over time.
Sploot Vets: Experience Next-Level Vet Care for Cats
Whether you need help diagnosing your cat’s mobility issues or looking to discuss a multimodal treatment approach for your cat’s arthritis, we are here to help!
Sploot Veterinary Care offers next-level, all-in-one veterinary care for cats, with primary care, urgent care, and emergency vet services, all under one roof. Our experienced vet care team also uses a Fear Free veterinary approach that keeps your cat as comfortable as possible in every visit.
Check out one of our state-of-the-art, serene vet clinics in Chicago, Denver, and Colorado Springs! Our doors are open 365 days a year, with extended clinic hours for your convenience.
Book your vet appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app today!
