Arthritis in Cats
It is common for older cats to get arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, or DJD. This can come about through the normal wear and tear on the joints over the years, or as the result of a previous injury or an infection. Arthritis in cats is a treatable, though chronic, condition.
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Symptoms
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The most common symptoms of arthritis in cats include limping, moving very stiffly, being reluctant to jump or climb stairs, swollen joints and a noticeable crackling sound when the cat moves.
Treatment
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Treatment includes keeping the cat indoors where it is warm and dry, gentle massage and pain-killing medications. Surgery is used as a last resort.
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Diagnosis
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Other conditions, such as an injury or inflammatory joint disease, also have these symptoms, so the cat needs to go to the vet for a proper diagnosis. The cat may be X-rayed, given a CT scan, or some fluid from the joints may be withdrawn and analyzed.
Body Weight
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Being overweight can aggravate arthritis in cats. According to "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," older cats need a lower calorie diet because they will not want to move around as much as they did when they were younger.
Considerations
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Make sure the cat has a warm, dry place to sleep because the cold and damp will aggravate symptoms. Put up ramps or "pet steps" so the cat does not need to jump (see Resources).
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References
Resources
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