Signs Of Arthritis In Kitties

Just like people, cats can be prone to developing arthritis as they grow older. This painful condition develops when the tendons and ligaments that cushion and connect their bones get worn out. Over time, these tissues can thin and lose elasticity, causing a lot of pain, friction, and discomfort. Arthritis isn’t curable, but it can be managed. However, treatments may be more successful if the issue is caught and addressed early.

Here are some signs for you to watch for:

Sensitivity

With arthritic animals, sometimes one joint or area is affected more than others. Fluffy may react if you touch a sensitive area. She might also flinch, withdraw, move away, or even hiss or bite.

Sleeping More Than Usual

This one may be hard to spot, given that our feline friends spend so much time sleeping. However, if Fluffy seems even drowsier than usual, mention it to your vet.

Stiffness

Arthritis can seriously impact your furry buddy’s mobility. Fluffy may seem stiff, especially when she is first getting up or down. She may also limp, especially when she first gets up trom one of her 44 daily naps.

Difficulty With Stairs

Stairs can be challenging for kitties with arthritis. If you think about it, many stairs are taller than Fluffy! You may notice your furball really struggling to get from one floor to another. 

Aggression

Joint pain can seriously interfere with Fluffy’s mood. Severe pain can turn her from a purring, cuddly snuggle bug to a hissing ball of rage. If your feline buddy is acting unusually cranky and/or aggressive, she may have arthritis.

Trouble Getting Up And Down

Kittens are bouncing balls of mischief, and can easily leap from the floor to the back of your chair. However, as your pet ages, she’ll become less lithe and agile. If arthritis sets in, you may notice your furry buddy having trouble jumping onto your bed or couch.

Reduced Interest In Play

Fluffy is very playful, which is always a delight to watch. However, joint pain can affect those frisky kitty antics we love to watch.

Unkempt Fur

Arthritic cats often have difficulty bending and stretching to groom themselves. Your pet may start looking a bit unkempt. (Tip: groom your kitty gently, using a soft brush.)



Keep in mind that many of these symptoms can be related to a variety of medical issues. Contact your vet if you notice any of these red flags in your kitty!