Identifying and addressing feline osteoarthritis in your aging cat

Unlike dogs, who typically display obvious lameness as a major clinical symptom of OA, cats excel at masking pain . Their natural self-preservation instinct, rooted in their solitary and territorial behavior, drives them to conceal discomfort. Many cat owners and even some veterinarians might overlook the early, more subtle indicators of OA, mistaking them for normal aging or typical feline behavior. Despite approximately 40% of all cats exhibiting clinical signs of osteoarthritis , the condition remains woefully underdiagnosed, with only an estimated 13% of affected cats globally receiving a diagnosis . This diagnostic gap highlights the challenge of recognizing chronic arthritic pain in cats, as the primary indicators often manifest as gradual changes in behavior and lifestyle that you might not immediately associate with pain. For this reason, you must remain vigilant and attentive to even minor changes in your cat's daily routines.

The key to early detection of feline OA lies in observing changes in your cat's behavior and lifestyle . These changes typically develop gradually, making them easy to miss without careful attention. Subtle symptoms you might notice include a reluctance to move and general apathy. Here are important signs that could indicate your cat is experiencing the pain and stiffness associated with OA:

• Decreased grooming resulting in a matted or scruffy coat. Your cat may neglect certain areas that cause pain when reached, as discomfort over joints or pain when turning to groom specific areas can significantly limit their grooming effectiveness.

• Overgrooming of specific areas , possibly as an attempt to soothe underlying joint pain.

• Becoming more grumpy or less tolerant of being touched or handled, especially when you contact areas around affected joints.

• Withdrawal and spending more time alone . You may notice your cat interacting less with family members or other pets in the household.

• Purring less frequently than has been typical for them.

• Sleeping in different locations, such as on the floor instead of their usual elevated spots. This behavior often stems from difficulty jumping. You might also notice a hunched or tucked-up position instead of their normal curled-up posture when sleeping.

• Eliminating outside the litter box due to pain when climbing in or positioning for elimination.

• A hunched or tucked-up posture rather than a relaxed, curled-up position when resting or sleeping.

• Vocalizing or hissing when moving around or being stroked over joints—a direct expression of pain.

If you notice any of these signs in your cat, consulting with your veterinarian promptly is crucial . Diagnosing feline OA involves a comprehensive approach:

Your observations at home provide invaluable diagnostic information. Be prepared to discuss any changes you've noticed in your cat's behavior, activity levels, and daily routines in detail. Your veterinarian may ask specific questions or have you complete a validated questionnaire before or during your consultation to gather this information systematically. These questionnaires are specifically designed to elicit information about changes in mobility, activity levels, grooming habits, and general demeanor. Consider recording your cat on video at home , as this can help your veterinarian observe how your cat moves in their natural environment without the stress of the clinic setting.

During an examination for feline arthritis, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination, including careful palpation and manipulation of your cat's joints. They will specifically look for several important signs:

• Joint thickening or swelling, which can be a clinical symptom of feline OA.

• Pain upon manipulation of the joints . While joint pain on palpation is a clinical symptom, keep in mind that not all affected joints will show pain during examination. Your cat may resist restraint or demonstrate marked guarding of painful areas.

• Crepitus, a distinctive grating or crackling sensation that occurs upon joint movement.

• Decreased range of motion in the affected joints, limiting your cat's mobility.

Your veterinarian will also observe your cat's gait in the consulting room and assess their willingness to jump on and off a chair, providing important clues about any gait abnormalities.

Regarding Radiographic (X-ray) evaluation , your veterinarian may recommend taking X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the osteoarthritis, but the specific details of this process are not critical to understand at this stage.

Early diagnosis of feline OA allows for timely intervention to manage your cat's pain and improve their quality of life. Untreated pain carries detrimental impacts, potentially leading to musculoskeletal deterioration through reduced mobility and activity, cognitive and affective decline, and damage to the human-animal bond you share with your cat. Pain that remains untreated can become increasingly difficult to manage due to central sensitization and can significantly diminish your cat's quality of life. Active screening and early identification can substantially increase the number of affected cats receiving treatment and improve their overall wellbeing.

Feline osteoarthritis is an extremely common condition, particularly in older cats, that can profoundly impact your cat's wellbeing. By remaining observant and recognizing the subtle clinical signs, you play a vital role in early detection . Don't dismiss changes in your cat's behavior as merely "getting old" or "slowing down." If you notice any of the signs we've discussed, schedule a consultation with your veterinarian promptly. Beginning to screen your cat as early as seven to ten years of age helps establish a baseline of what's 'normal' for your individual cat and may uncover OA early in the disease process. Together with your veterinarian, you can determine if OA is present and develop an effective management plan to alleviate your cat's pain, helping them enjoy a happier, more active life. Remember, while OA is a progressive condition, its effects can often be successfully managed with appropriate veterinary care .