Care of joints in cats

Pashu Sandesh, 30 March 2024

Dr Yogendra Singh ¹ Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, RPS Veterinary College, Balana, Mahendergarah – 123029, Haryana, India

Dr Vipin Kumar Yadav ² Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, ANDUAT Kumarganj Ayodhya

Taking care of your cat's joints is crucial for ensuring their overall health and mobility, especially as they age. Joint issues can arise due to various factors such as genetics, injuries, obesity, and ageing. By implementing preventive measures and providing proper care, you can help maintain your cat's joint health and improve their quality of life. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to care for your cat's joints:

1. Nutrition:

• Balanced Diet: Provide a well-balanced diet that includes high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Choose cat food specifically formulated for joint health or supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
• Weight Management: Maintain your cat at a healthy weight to reduce stress on their joints. Obesity can exacerbate joint problems and increase the risk of developing arthritis.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Include omega-3 fatty acids in your cat's diet to reduce inflammation and support joint health. Sources include fish oil or supplements designed for pets.

2. Exercise:

• Regular Activity: Encourage regular but gentle exercise to keep your cat's joints flexible and muscles strong. Interactive toys, climbing structures, and short play sessions can help keep them active without putting excessive strain on their joints.
• Low-Impact Activities: Opt for low-impact exercises such as swimming or gentle walks on a leash, if your cat enjoys water or outdoor activities.

3. Environmental Modifications:

• Comfortable Sleeping Areas: Provide soft and comfortable bedding in warm areas to help alleviate joint stiffness, especially for senior cats.
• Easy Access: Ensure easy access to their favourite spots, such as windowsills or beds, by using ramps or steps, especially if they have difficulty jumping.

4. Regular Veterinary Check-ups:

• Annual Exams: Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your cat's overall health, including their joint condition.
• Early Detection: Regular exams can help detect joint problems or arthritis early, allowing prompt treatment and management.

5. Joint Supplements:

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Consider supplementing your cat's diet with these compounds, which can help support joint health and reduce inflammation.
• Omega-3 Supplements: As mentioned earlier, omega-3 fatty acid supplements can also be beneficial for joint health.

6. Medication and Treatments:

• Pain Management: If your cat is diagnosed with arthritis or other joint conditions, your veterinarian may prescribe pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage discomfort.
• Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy techniques such as massage or hydrotherapy may help improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

7. Environmental Adaptations:

• Senior-Friendly Environment: As your cat ages, consider making adjustments to their environment to accommodate any mobility issues they may experience.
• Non-Slip Surfaces: Use rugs or carpeting to provide traction on slippery floors and prevent falls, exacerbating joint problems.

8. Joint-Friendly Supplements:

• Green-Lipped Mussel Extract: This natural supplement contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and improve joint function.
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): MSM is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate joint pain and stiffness.

9. Behavioral Observations:

• Monitor Activity Levels: Keep an eye on your cat's activity levels and behaviour. Changes such as reluctance to jump or play, limping, or stiffness may indicate joint discomfort.
• Manage Stress: Minimize stress in your cat's environment, as stress can exacerbate inflammation and contribute to joint issues.

10. Surgical Options:

• Joint Surgery: In severe cases of joint disease or injury, surgical interventions such as arthroscopy or joint replacement may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain.
• Ligament Repair: Surgical repair may be recommended for cats with ligament injuries to stabilize the joint and prevent further damage.

In conclusion, caring for your cat's joints requires a multi-faceted approach, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, environmental modifications, and veterinary care. By being proactive and attentive to your cat's needs, you can help prevent joint problems and ensure they enjoy a happy, healthy life.