Degenerative joint disease in cats

Overview

You may not think of cats when you think of degenerative joint disease; however, cats can be as severely affected as dogs.  Just as in people and dogs, wear and tear on the joints can take its toll on aging cats, especially if they are overweight.  Cartilage is extremely important for the proper function of joints.  It normally provides a smooth, low-friction surface between bones and joints. In some cats, however, cartilage may become eroded or develop fissures, causing pain and inflammation.  When joint inflammation occurs over an extended period of time, a condition known as degenerative joint disease develops. 

Symptoms

• Difficulty getting up
• Reluctant to jump
• Stiffness after rest
• Limping or lameness after exercise
• Bunny hopping when walking or running
• Sitting on the back legs and not putting any weight on the front limbs
• Poor grooming around the rump and back of legs

Causes

Degenerative joint disease usually affects older cats, but can occur at an early age in obese cats.  A serious injury can also start the degenerative process, like being hit by a car or tearing a cruciate ligament. Overweight cats put extra stress on weight bearing joints.  This makes these joints prone to arthritis and they often develop arthritis earlier in life. 

Treatment

Short-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to alleviate the pain. Do NOT give your cat aspirin or drugs meant for dogs. It could kill them!  Consult with your veterinarian about proper pain medication for your cat.

Natural treatments

Also available are some all-natural products that effectively provide both inflammation and pain relief without the potential side effects associated with anti-inflammatory drugs in cats.  Many vets prescribe a nutritional supplement that provides glucosamine and chondroitin.  Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are available for cats for daily administration to improve cartilage and joint health.  These are available in a tasty tuna flavor to be sprinkled on the top of food.

The future

There is no cure, but your cat can be kept more comfortable with regular light exercise and medications. If he doesn't move around enough, he will get stiffer and be even less mobile, so keep him moving as much as possible. A warm spot to rest will comfort aching joints. Pet supply stores offer heated beds especially for older animals.