Arthritis Medications for Cats

If you have noticed a loss of your cat's agility, if it has developed a limp or seems stiff and slow to move after rising from a reclined position, it may be suffering from feline arthritis. There are many steps you can take to make its day-to-day life with arthritis easier, such as providing your cat with a warm, soft place to sleep. Most importantly, make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss the best medications to help your cat. Medications cannot cure arthritis, but can relieve much of the pain associated with the condition.

  1. Natural Medications

    • Glucosamine and chondroitin are two popular natural remedies for cats with arthritis. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are thought to build up the cartilage in between joints and relieve some of the pain associated with arthritis. Cat-health-guide.org reports that clinical evidence to support the use of glucosamine and chondroitin are "mixed." Cat Health Guide also suggests using the herb Devil's Claw and Spirulina, blue-green algae, as natural supplements to support healthy joints and muscles in felines. Omega-3 fatty acids may also help with feline arthritis by lubricating the joints and relieving stiffness.

    Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

    • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not a cure for arthritis, but help alleviate the pain of arthritis by reducing swelling in the joints and muscles. Some examples of NSAID medications are carprofen, meloxicam, buprenorphine and tepoxalin. Typically, there are few side effects from taking NSAID medications; however, buprenorphine may cause dilated pupils, reduced appetite and behavioral changes.

    Opiates

    • An opiate is a narcotic that is either derived directly from the plant known as the "opium poppy" or any number of synthetically derived medications that mimic the effects of natural opiates. Opiates work to relieve the pain of arthritis by inhibiting the natural production of serotonin. An example of a feline opiate medication is tramadol. Side effects your cat may experience from taking opiates are lethargy and vomiting.