7 Signs of Arthritis in Cats — and How to Help Your Favorite Feline

Arthritis is a long-term condition in cats where the cartilage between their joints wears away. This results in the bones rubbing against each other, causing pain. In the past, arthritis wasn’t commonly diagnosed in cats. But research suggests that 90% of cats over 12 years old have arthritis.

The most common sign of arthritis for dogs is difficulty with walking. For cats, this isn’t always the case.

What are the earliest signs of arthritis in cats?

Arthritis in cats can be difficult to spot. Cats are very good at hiding their discomfort. But it’s still a good idea to watch for these seven signs of cat arthritis — especially as they age. 

1. Decreased activity

Cats who have pain from arthritis will likely stop being as active. They might become reluctant to do certain things like:

• Play

• Jump

• Walk up and down stairs

If they do try to jump, they might attempt it multiple times before finally making the leap.

2. Reclusiveness

In addition to being less active, cats with arthritis may also hide more often. Some might not move for long periods of time or react to things that usually make them get up, such as the sound of being fed or their owner coming home.

3. Behavioral changes

Changes in your cat’s behavior related to arthritis might be subtle and hard to notice at first. Your cat might become irritable or avoid attention. They might flinch or pull away from being pet by you. Or they could bite or scratch you in response to touching a sore area.

4. Litter box behavior changes

Because arthritis is painful, your cat might have trouble getting in and out of their litter box. They also might struggle with positioning themselves in it. This could result in your cat going to the bathroom outside of or next to the litter box.

EXPERT PICKS: WHAT TO READ NEXT

• Feline arthritis treatments: If your cat is diagnosed with arthritis, don’t despair. There are many treatments and modifications that can support your cat’s well-being.

• Other signs of pain: Cats are good at hiding their pain. But if you learn to recognize these common signs of pain, you’ll be able to get your cat help sooner.

• Pain medication options: There are a number of pain medications available for cats. Learn about some of the most common options and what they’re best used for.

5. Weight loss

Despite a decrease in activity, some cats may lose weight due to arthritis. This could be caused by a loss of appetite or a loss of muscle mass.

6. Decreased grooming

Feeling stiff or in pain can make grooming difficult for cats. If your cat doesn’t groom themselves as often, their coat could become matted or tangled.

7. Hair loss around the joints

Some cats with arthritis may repeatedly lick or groom areas where they feel pain, such as at their joints. Excessive grooming due to pain can lead to hair loss.

How is arthritis in cats diagnosed?

Diagnosing arthritis in cats is usually done with different tests. These tests include:

• Physical examination

• Neurological examination

• Blood work

• X-rays or CT scan

• Cytology

Your veterinarian may perform a few or all of these tests. Some may be used to rule out other conditions or diagnose any existing conditions.

Achieving a diagnosis of arthritis in cats can be hard and take time. Cats aren’t always willing to let veterinarians physically exam them. And they hide their pain well.

How do you treat arthritis in cats?

Treating arthritis in cats usually involves a combination of strategies to reduce pain symptoms. The most common arthritis treatments for cats include:

• Injections like Solensia

• Medication to relieve pain, such as gabapentin

• Joint supplements like omega-3 fatty acids or glucosamine

• Diet changes to reduce weight if necessary

• Exercise to strengthen muscles and lose weight

• Medication to reduce inflammation, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Physical therapy

• Laser therapy

If your cat doesn’t respond to any of the available therapies, surgery might be an option. Talk to your veterinarian if your cat continues to have trouble while receiving treatment.

What are the risk factors for arthritis in cats?

The biggest risk factor for arthritis in cats is age. The life expectancy of cats has greatly increased over time. Cats who live longer have a higher chance of experiencing a breakdown around their joints as they age. This is known as primary arthritis.

Being overweight is another risk factor. But not all cats with arthritis are overweight, and not all cats who are overweight have arthritis.

If a cat is injured or develops abnormally, their risk for developing arthritis can also increase with age. This type of arthritis is called secondary arthritis. In these cases, trauma from the injury or abnormality can cause damage to the cartilage between the joints, leading to arthritis. 

How can you make a cat with arthritis more comfortable?

Simple modifications at home can also help your cat with arthritis. Such modifications may include:

• Using raised bowls for food and water

• Switching out litter boxes for ones with lower walls

• Getting orthopedic beds

• Using steps or stairs so they don’t have to jump

• Adding nonslip flooring such as area rugs

• Keeping water and litter boxes on each floor of the home

Cats with arthritis shouldn’t go outside unsupervised. With arthritis, they can’t defend themselves as well. So it’s best to keep them inside at all times.

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Written by:

Leah Thomason

Leah Thomason was an editorial intern on the GoodRx Health team. She is a writer from Houston, Texas, with an interest in pet health.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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