Home Remedy for Cat Arthritis

There's nothing sadder than watching an arthritic cat struggle to get up on its favorite chair or avoid activities it loves because it's in pain. While there's no cure for arthritis, there are some natural home remedies to make your cat more comfortable and active again.

Glucosamine

Most health food stores sell glucosamine capsules. Just open a capsule and mix the powder into your cat's wet food. Note that diabetic cats should not take glucosamine.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is one of the ingredients in Adequan, an injectable drug used by many veterinarians for cats with arthritis. Hyaluronic acid lubricates inflamed joints, improves mobility and relieves pain during activity. Most health food stores sell it. Choose either the liquid or powder form, and add it to your cat's food.

Low-Dose or Baby Aspirin

Low-dose aspirin can provide pain relief for your cat. Do not use more than 1/4 tablet two or three times a week. Cats metabolize aspirin more slowly than humans and dogs do, and a very small dose can stay in the cat's bloodstream for several days.

Wild Salmon Oil or Fish Oil

The omega 3 fatty acids in wild salmon and fish oil have anti-inflammatory benefits. Most health food stores and independent pet supply retailers sell both. Make a hole in the gel cap with a push pin and mix the oil into your cat's food.

Massage

Start by petting your cat in the areas where it's sore. Then gently knead the muscles around the joints with your fingertips using small, circular motions. If your cat is willing, gradually work your way out to the muscles surrounding the affected joints.

Gentle Exercise

Exercise strengthens muscles, keeps ligaments and tendons flexible, and helps blood circulate to stiff joints. If your cat goes out, encourage it to go for a short walk around the yard with you. Or dangle a bouncy feather teaser in front of the cat and let it swat at it. Any kind of gentle activity will make the cat feel better physically and emotionally.

Resources

• The Pet Arthritis Resource Center
• The Results of a Study on Arthritis in Cats
• Exercises for Cats With Arthritis