Cats and Arthritis, It's a Real Thing

In one recent study 90% of cats over 12 years of age had radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative, progressive and irreversible condition. It's also PAINFUL!  The elbows and hips are the most affected joints in cats but all joints are at risk. Our kitties are very good at hiding the signs of pain. Here is a video of a kitty with arthritis in her hips. Note how she bunny hops down the stairs instead of having a separate stride for each back leg.  

There are medications to help these kitties feel better and be pain free. If your note that your kitty has slowed down in their older years or isn't making as many or as high of jumps they may have osteoarthritis. Ask our veterinarians about options for treatment to help keep your kitties comfortable!