Medicine for Arthritis in Cats
The symptoms of arthritis in cats easily can be mistaken for nothing more serious than signs of advancing age. The cat runs less, no longer gets on her favorite chair and seems stiff when she walks. Arthritis does more than slow cats down, though. It's as painful for them as it is for humans. While there's no cure for arthritis in cats, the right medicine can make them more comfortable and improve their quality of life.
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Supplements for Joint Repair
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Glucosamine promotes joint function and repair. Health food stores sell it, and it can be mixed into your cat's wet food. Frequently prescribed glucosamine products for pets include Cosequin and Dasuquin. It can take several weeks for these supplements to provide relief.
Prescription Medicine
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Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (brand name Adequan), a drug that is injected, reduces inflammation, increases the thickness of joint fluid and inhibits the enzymes that break down cartilage within the joints. Metacam also relieves pain. Be aware, though, that Metacam can have very serious side effects, including kidney failure.
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Natural Treatments
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Hyaluronic acid improves mobility, lubricates inflamed joints and relieves pain during activity. It's one of the ingredients in Adequan and is available at health food stores. While herbs and such homeopathic remedies as pulsatilla can relieve arthritis pain, they should be used only under the supervision of a holistic veterinarian.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory benefits. Wild salmon and fish oil are rich in Omega-3s and are well accepted by most cats. Health food stores sell these.
Acupuncture
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Acupuncture relieves pain, improves circulation and reduces swelling. Because treating animals is very different from treating humans, your cat should be treated only by a veterinary acupuncturist.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Cristina
