Feline Arthritis Therapy

Good Physical Condition

• One of the most important aspects in arthritis pain control is weight management. It is very common for cats to become overweight and this can increase the amount of pain it can suffer. The more weight the bones have to carry, the more pain that is caused. Therefore, a cat who has an ideal body weight will likely experience less pain than one who is overweight. The key to feline weight-loss is to lose it gradually. It can be quite difficult for an arthritic cat to lose weight since it is probably not too active and therefore, has a low caloric requirement. The best method to induce weight loss is usually through dietary measures. Veterinarians can dispense prescription weight-loss food, such as Royal Canine High-Protein Calorie Control or Hills' R/D. However, it is very important for your cat's health to not restrict its food too much, as not enough food and too much weight-loss can result in negative liver conditions.

  If your cat allows, try to play with him more or even take him on leashed walks through your neighborhood. Not only is the weight-loss beneficial to his arthritis therapy, but so is the exercise. Give your cat interactive toys to get him moving or use catnip to boost his energy. If he starts to show any signs of pain, be sure to stop activity immediately.

A Little TLC Goes a Long Way

• Giving your arthritic cat a little tender loving care can help to prevent pain. Massage can be very beneficial and if your cat allows you to do this, begin by petting to build trust. Then start to gently knead the muscles around the joint with your fingertips in a circular motion. Warm towels may aid in kitty's relaxation. Accordingly, cats like to be warm in general and since cold, damp weather usually worsens the effects of arthritis, you may want to consider adjusting the temperature in your home to make it more comfortable for your kitty.

  Adjusting the placement of your cat's objects in your house may help in preventing some of the pains caused by arthritis. Place his food bowls and litter boxes in easy-to-reach areas. In addition, try to reduce your cat's need to go up and down the stairs by placing all of its necessary objects on the floor in which the cat spends the most time. You may want to even consider building the cat a ramp to go up and down the stairs.

Medical Management

• Giving your cat glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may be beneficial for pain. These can help to rebuild cartilage in joints and support what may be left. These supplements can be very effective; however, and can take a few months to begin working. Your veterinarian can prescribe stronger pain relievers for your kitty, but they come with potential health side effects. Buffered aspirin can be used, although it must be given under the strict supervision of a veterinarian as cats are typically very sensitive to this drug. Butorphonol can be used in extremely painful cases, as this medication tends to have a sedating effect on cats. Corticosteriods are another option, although they pose serious health risks. Talk to your kitty's veterinarian as to what he or she feels may be the best route for your cat.

  Helping your cat to treat arthritis pain will not only improve its quality of life, but will likely improve yours, as well.