Cats With Hip Arthritis
Arthritis can affect cats of any age, although it is more common in older cats. It can be painful for your cat and distressing for you as the owner to see your pet in pain. However, there are steps that could help prevent arthritis and measures you can take to make your cat more comfortable.
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Identification
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If your cat has hip arthritis, it will manifest in its movements. According to Pet Education, stiff movements or limping are characteristic of this condition. Your cat may find it difficult to jump or go up and down stairs, and it could also display signs of being in pain. These include not wanting to be touched and trying to hide from humans or other pets.
Significance
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Arthritis is a debilitating condition that will get worse if it is left untreated. There is no cure for the condition but you can manage it using medication and supplements. The Arthritis and Glucosamine Center explains that severe cases of hip arthritis may require surgery. If you suspect your cat might have arthritis, it is important to seek advice from a vet.
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Causes
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Hip arthritis (also called hip dysplasia) is caused by a deformity in the hip joint, says The Arthritis and Glucosamine Center. The hip consists of a ball and socket joint, but in an animal with arthritis the two no longer fit together properly. In cats, this condition is thought to be genetic. Even if a cat's parents didn't display symptoms of arthritis themselves, they could still carry the defective gene.
Prevention/Solution
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Arthritis is incurable but your vet will be able to advise you on the best ways of slowing its progress and managing your cat's symptoms. Drs. Foster and Smith remark that only a limited number of anti-inflammatory medications are suitable for cats, so many vets prescribe nutritional supplements such as glucosamine. They also advise ensuring that your cat's food bowl and litter tray are in easy reach so your cat doesn't have to exert itself.
Considerations
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Hip dysplasia can occur in all breeds of cat. However, the Arthritis and Glucosamine Information Center says that it is more likely to occur in cats with larger bones. This is because more stress is put on the joint over time. In smaller breeds, such as Siamese cats, the bones are cushioned by more muscle and tissue. However, it is still important to watch for signs of arthritis as they become older.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit cat image by Darren Ager from Fotolia.com
