Feline arthritis is a condition where the animal's joints become inflamed. Though cats are naturally agile and have an extremely honed sense of balance, they are not immune to developing this disease. The most common forms of arthritis found in cats are traumatic arthritis and osteoarthritis. Sprains, or traumatic arthritis, may be a result of an injury from an accident or fall. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joints break down, most often in the shoulders and elbows. Osteoarthritis is usually diagnosed in older cats, those who had been extremely athletic and cats that have had multiple injuries.
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Medication
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Because feline arthritis can be painful and limit your cat's ability to move around comfortably, some vets using an anti-inflammatory medication. Though medication should be successful in reducing your pet's pain and restore her back to a playful, affectionate kitty, it is a temporary treatment. Being overweight can add stress to a cat's joints. Diet and exercise will help him maintain a healthy weight and that should keep symptoms at a minimum. You need to be aware, however, that medications should be administered to a pet with extreme caution. Never give a cat medication without your vet's knowledge. Drugs that are perfectly safe for humans can be toxic and deadly for your pet.
Diet
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We all love to spoil our animals with food and treats. But for a cat that suffers from arthritis, even a few extra pounds can stress painful joints. Your vet can prescribe a diet that is lower in calories or fat and can explain the correct amounts of food you should be serving your pet. Portions are not a one-size-fits all formula. Further, limiting your pet's diet too quickly can lead to liver disease. PetPlace, a website run and edited by veterinarians, recommends that cats should lose no more than six pounds in a three-week period.
Exercise
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Exercise is another way to help your cat shed unneeded pounds and reduce the pressure put on her joints. Most young cats enjoy swatting and chasing toys on the floor. A fishing-rod-like toy, with a feather or stuffed animal attached to the end of the line, is a popular game. The exercise your cat gets from these activities makes a huge impact on her quality of life. Not only does it help control her weight, it maintains muscle mass. You don't have to purchase expensive toys to keep your pet happy. Toss a crumpled wad of paper on the floor and watch her swat it around like a hockey puck. Or tie a stuffed mouse to the end of sturdy twine and let her try to catch it while you dangle the toy within her reach.
Other Remedies
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Cold weather conditions can exacerbate your cat's arthritis and stiffen his joints more. If your cat goes outside, try to limit her excursions during the cold season. A soft sleeping surface is also better for him than stiff or hard surfaces. Give your cat a large pet pillow or provide fluffy blankets for her to snooze on. Warm fleece blankets, as opposed to thin sheets, also keep your pet warmer. A thermo bed can be heated to 10 or 15 degrees above your pet's body temperature. For older felines, raising their food and water bowls keeps them from bending and hunching over. Ramps also prevent exacerbating inflamed joints. Your cat may not make the connection between jumping off the bed and achy joints. Giving her an easier path to the windowsill or couch will keep pain at a minimum and could reduce the need for medication.
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