What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know About Aging Cats

Did you know that arthritis is the number one cause of chronic pain in cats? Research shows that nearly 90% of cats show signs of arthritis on X-rays, and almost half of these cats experience pain and trouble moving around. Yet, fewer than 10% are actually receiving treatment.

At Community Animal Hospitals (CAH), we’re committed to helping your cat live a long, pain-free life. If you think your cat might be showing signs of discomfort, we’re here to help you identify and manage their pain.

Not Just an Old Cat Problem

Many people think arthritis only affects senior cats, but it can start as early as two years old. The pain your cat feels isn’t just “slowing down with age” – it’s a treatable medical condition.

How Arthritis Pain Works

There are different kinds of pain caused by arthritis:

• Inflammatory Pain: Caused by swelling in the joints.
• Neuropathic Pain: Triggered by nerve damage.
• Functional Pain: When the nervous system isn’t working properly.

Cats often hide their pain well, so symptoms can be easy to miss. That’s why screening is so important.

Signs Your Cat Might Be in Pain

Look for subtle changes in behavior like:

• Hesitating or avoiding jumping up or down
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Less playfulness or chasing toys
• Litter box trouble
• Changes in grooming habits
• Mood changes or hiding more than usual

What You Can Do

Start by filling out a quick arthritis checklist before your next vet visit. This can help us detect issues early and offer relief sooner.

At CAH, we may also recommend:

• A thorough physical exam
• Diagnostic imaging (like X-rays)
• Home videos of your cat moving around
• Owner-completed questionnaires about daily behavior

New tools like accelerometers (think kitty Fitbits!) can also help us track movement and activity levels over time.

Why Early Detection Matters

The sooner we diagnose arthritis, the sooner we can help. With tailored treatment plans, we can manage your cat’s pain, improve their mobility, and enhance their overall quality of life.

Pain doesn’t have to be a normal part of your cat’s life. If you suspect your cat may be hurting, give us a call. At Community Animal Hospitals, we’re here to keep your furry family member feeling their best.

Let’s work together to keep your cat purring in comfort!