Joint problems in cats are fairly common, especially in older cats. However, cats instinctively hide symptoms of pain and discomfort. Therefore, joint issues are not always obvious to pet parents, but may be diagnosed by a veterinarian. When signs are present, they may be as subtle as decreased mobility, changes in the cat’s walk, trouble climbing, hesitation before jumping, reduced interest in play, irritability when touched, and changes in grooming habits.
Cat joint supplements, though not a standalone solution, can be recommended by veterinarians to help alleviate the symptoms of joint problems in cats or slow down the progression of joint issues that are detected early.
In this Sploot Vets guide, we explore some of the top-rated joint supplements for cats and how they can help improve your cat’s quality of life.
How Are Joint Problems in Cats Treated?
Cat joint supplements can be helpful for several (but not all) feline joint issues. Here are some examples of joint issues where supplementation may be helpful:
- Osteoarthritis in cats – this degenerative condition affects up to 90 percent of older cats; cat joint supplements can help reduce inflammation and improve cartilage health.
- Hip dysplasia in cats – this is a condition wherein the hip joint is structurally damaged; while supplements cannot reverse the damage (surgery might, depending on the case), joint supplements can help manage inflammation and slow the progression of secondary arthritis.
- Residual effects of past injuries – if a cat had a fracture, ligament injury, or joint trauma that healed but left residual stiffness or degenerative changes, supplements can help support healing and improve mobility over time.
Along with supplements, the above joint issues are typically treated with a multimodal approach, which can include: physical therapy or rehabilitation, cold laser therapy, heat therapy, pain medications for cats, and corrective surgery, depending on the case.
Note: Joint supplements for cats are NOT typically prescribed for joint infections (septic arthritis) and autoimmune joint diseases.
9 Best Joint Supplements for Cats
Always consult a veterinarian before starting joint supplements for your cat. Your vet can assess your cat’s needs and recommend the most appropriate option. If you’re planning to discuss supplements with your vet, here’s a list of some top-rated choices that you can use as a reference.
1. Cosequin® Sprinkle Capsules for Cats
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); OTC cat joint supplement
Cosequin Sprinkle Capsules for Cats provide support for mild joint issues in cats. Designed to be opened and sprinkled over food, Cosequin is a convenient option for cats needing gentle joint support.
This cat joint supplement contains glucosamine hydrochloride to help nourish and protect joint cartilage, along with sodium chondroitin sulfate for added cartilage support and natural anti-inflammatory benefits.
The formula also includes manganese, a trace mineral that supports healthy collagen formation within the joints.
2. Dasuquin® Soft Chews for Cats
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); OTC cat joint supplement
Dasuquin Soft Chews for Cats is a joint supplement for cats that features a proprietary blend of beneficial ingredients. It contains avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), which can promote cartilage repair and reduce inflammation, along with Boswellia serrata extract for additional joint health support.
This cat joint supplement also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support cartilage production and reduce cartilage breakdown, potentially improving joint health over time. Last but not least, omega-3 fatty acids help support both joint and overall health.
3. Dasuquin Advanced Sprinkle Capsules for Cats
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); requires a veterinary prescription
Dasuquin Advanced Sprinkle Capsules for Cats contains a lot of similar ingredients to Dasuquin Soft Chews for Cats, making it a great alternative that can be mixed with your cat’s food.
This joint supplement for cats contains avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) and Boswellia serrata extract to support joint health and function. In addition, glucosamine and chondroitin help boost cartilage production and reduce cartilage breakdown.
Lastly, antioxidants in this cat joint supplement help promote cellular health and reduce oxidative stress that can contribute to joint inflammation and discomfort.
Note: Even over-the-counter cat joint supplements should be used with veterinary guidance. Veterinarians may start with an OTC joint supplement for cats before moving on to prescription ones, depending on the cat’s needs. Sploot veterinarian Dr. Schuyler Paaymans gives the following example: “Cosequin Sprinkle Capsules and Dasuquin Soft Chews are OTC; meanwhile, Dasuquin Advanced is by prescription. They are made by the same manufacturer, but are generally recommended in this order [Cosequin → Dasuquin Soft Chews → Dasuquin Advanced] for progressively increasing joint support.”
4. Flexadin® Advanced Chews with UC-II® for Cats & Dogs
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); requires a veterinary prescription
Flexadin Advanced Chews for Cats & Dogs offer a convenient, tasty way to support joint health in pets. These chews contain UC-II® brand collagen, an undenatured form of collagen that helps promote joint comfort and mobility by supporting a healthy immune response within the joints. Modulating this response matters because an overactive immune reaction to joint cartilage (common in osteoarthritis) can contribute to inflammation and discomfort.
The formula also includes omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support overall joint function. Together, these ingredients provide a simple, once-daily option for feline joint support.
5. ArthriEase-GOLD® Powder for Cats & Dogs
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); requires a veterinary prescription
ArthriEase Gold Powder for Cats & Dogs is a concentrated powder supplement that is indicated for senior pets, those recovering from joint injuries or surgery, and pets that need extra joint support.
It features hyaluronic acid, which helps lubricate joint tissue for smoother, more comfortable movement. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) supports healthy joint connective tissues, while chondroitin provides natural anti-inflammatory benefits to ease stiffness and discomfort.
The formula also includes a probiotic (Bacillus coagulans) to support digestive health and antioxidants for cellular health, making it a well-rounded option with multiple benefits.
6. ZM-ULTRA Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); requires a veterinary prescription
ZM-ULTRA Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs is indicated for pets who have mobility issues, joint weakness, joint inflammation, or those that might develop these issues in the future. This beef-flavored joint supplement for cats is formulated to reduce inflammation and increase comfort, with a variety of beneficial ingredients.
The formula contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which work together to nourish cartilage and support smoother joint movement, while MSM helps maintain healthy connective tissues and promotes overall joint comfort.
Linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) contribute additional anti-inflammatory support. Lastly, omega-3 fatty acids in this supplement help reduce joint inflammation and support long-term mobility.
7. Krillex Joint Formula Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); requires a veterinary prescription
Krillex Joint Formula Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs provide multi-layered joint support by combining several well-known ingredients into one convenient daily chew.
The formula features omega-3s from krill oil, which offer powerful anti-inflammatory benefits to help ease joint discomfort and support overall mobility. It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin to nourish cartilage and promote smoother joint function, while MSM supports healthy connective tissues and joint health. Lastly, hyaluronic acid adds an extra layer of support by helping to maintain joint lubrication.
8. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid for Cats & Dogs
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability); OTC cat joint supplement
While the previous cat joint supplements feature a combination of ingredients for joint support, omega-3 supplements for cats can also provide simple and effective joint support, especially in mild joint issues in cats.
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid for Cats & Dogs delivers high-quality, sustainably sourced omega-3 for cats. Made from 100% wild-caught fish, this formula uses the same premium-quality oil found in Nordic Naturals’ products for humans but is especially formulated to meet the needs of dogs and cats.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, this cat joint supplement helps reduce joint inflammation and increase comfort, while also providing additional benefits, such as boosting skin/coat health and supporting overall wellness.
9. Welactin Feline
- Available on SplootRX online pharmacy (depending on availability; requires a veterinary prescription
Welactin for Cats is an omega-3 cat joint supplement, derived from high-quality cold-water fish. Welactin’s palatable flavor makes it easy to mix into meals, offering a simple, effective way to boost your cat’s daily omega-3 intake.
Welactin provides a rich source of EPA and DHA, two omega-3 fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory benefits. These fatty acids help ease joint stiffness, promote healthy skin, and support overall health.
How to Choose the Best Cat Joint Supplement for Your Cat
We highly recommend consulting a veterinarian if you suspect that your cat is suffering from joint problems. A veterinarian will be able to assess your cat’s condition, rule out other medical conditions that could be causing your cat’s pain, and prescribe the best treatment plan for your cat.
Here are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
- While omega-3 is a beneficial supplement for some joint issues, some cats may experience gastrointestinal issues from prolonged intake or high doses of omega-3 cat joint supplements.
- Omega-3-containing cat joint supplements are not recommended for cats with seafood allergies, clothing disorders, or pancreatitis.
- Joint supplements can be recommended by veterinarians as part of a multimodal treatment approach for arthritis in cats and other joint problems. They are typically NOT used by vets as a standalone treatment.
Treating Cat Joint Problems at Sploot Vets
At Sploot Veterinary Care, we take a careful approach to treating cat joint problems, and we often recommend a multimodal treatment approach that ensures your cat’s well-being. Here are the main steps we take when treating joint issues in cats:
Diagnosing Your Cat's Joint Problem
Our veterinary team begins by ruling out other potential causes of pain. Once it’s confirmed that the discomfort stems from the joints, we may recommend diagnostic tests like X-rays, bloodwork, or advanced imaging to pinpoint the underlying cause.
Prescribing Pain Meds, Cat Joint Supplements, & Other Medications
If your cat is uncomfortable, our vet may prescribe pain medications to provide immediate relief. We also evaluate whether cat joint supplements, anti-inflammatory meds, or other supportive medications could help alleviate your cat’s discomfort.
Exploring Other Ways to Treat or Manage the Joint Issue
Beyond medications, we may recommend additional solutions for your cat’s joint issues. Depending on your cat’s case, common solutions include weight management, environmental adjustments to reduce strain, feline rehabilitation or physical therapy, and cold laser therapy.
In some cases, corrective surgery can also be explored, particularly for hip dysplasia, CCL tears, patellar luxation, joint fractures, and joint deterioration from severe osteoarthritis.
Sploot Veterinary Care: Your All-in-One, Fear Free Cat Vet
Whether you have a question about joint supplements for cats or you suspect other health issues in your cat, we are always here to help.
Sploot Vets provides all-in-one cat vet care that you can count on, with preventative care, urgent care, and emergency vet services, all under one roof! In addition, we offer a Fear Free experience that prioritizes your cat’s comfort.
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