Arthritis Symptoms in Cats

Cats can suffer from several types of arthritis--a condition that causes one or more joints to become inflamed, stiff and limited in movement--just as humans can. Feline progressive polyarthritis and osteoarthritis are two forms of the condition that can affect cats. If your cat has any symptoms of arthritis, you should have your veterinarian examine her for a proper diagnosis as some ailments (such as diabetes mellitus) can imitate arthritis.

  1. Mobility

    • If your cat is suffering from arthritis, you may notice changes in his mobility or desire to be mobile. Your cat may have arthritis if she displays a reluctance to walk, limps, favors of one part of the body (for example, the left or right side) or appears to have a more limited range of motion than before.
      Your cat may have more difficulty jumping (onto or from furniture or window sills) or climbing stairs. You may notice your cat has difficulty moving after lying down for a prolonged period of time.

    Behavior

    • If your pet exhibits personality changes such as an increase in nervousness or anxiety, depression or aggression, he could be suffering from arthritis (and reacting to the discomfort or pain).
      Cats with arthritis may display other behavioral symptoms including lethargy, decrease of appetite and other signs of obvious pain or discomfort.
      Your cat may spend more time by himself and seek out warm and soft places to lie to reduce or alleviate some of the pain.
      Cats may also bite or lick at tender areas.

    Appearance

    • You may notice visible changes in your cat that can be an indication of arthritis. Your cat's joints may become abnormally large due to inflammation or new bone formation around them.
      If your cat has adjusted the way he walks to favor a certain muscle or leg, the tender muscle may shrink in size.