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Save up to 50% on all your pet care needs with PetCareRx. Arthritic Cats - Symptoms and CuresArthritic Cats - Just like dogs and humans, cats also suffer from this disorder.Before I tell you what we know about the symptoms and treatment of feline arthritis, take a look at this short Video by a Vet, who talks about a family of natural medications, glucosamines. (Humans take this medication, too)...
Arthritic Cats - SymptomsSymptoms of arthritis in cats may vary depending on where the arthritis is located:Limping Moving stiffly Unusual irritability Doesn't want to be touched or handled Doesn't want to jump Just like humans, your cat may feel worse upon awakening, and may feel progressively better after moving around a little. If you notice these changes, take your cat to the Vet for an evaluation. If the problem is osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease)the best treatment may be medical or surgical.
Arthritis Treatments and OutlookArthritic cat's problems are made worse by obesity, so weight loss will be suggested if your cat is overweight. As you can imagine, carrying extra weight puts stress and strain on the joints.Supplements such as glucosamine and extra vitamins may be suggested. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Metacam (meloxicam) may be proposed, although this medication may aggravate kidney conditions, so your Vet will carefully monitor your cat's blood chemistry. Surgical intervention includes joint fusion, joint replacement, cutting of the joint and even amputation. The outlook for recovery depends upon the severity of damage of the joint, and the location of the condition. You can also do a lot to help. Make sure your cat has areas to rest that are warm and soft. Keep your cat mildly active. Muscles need to be toned to keep your cat healthy. Consider carpeting stairs if they are slick and slippery. Gentle massage is comforting. Some cat owners report good success with acupuncture for arthritis. There are other forms of arthritis in cats that are quite serious. Septic arthritis which is caused by a bacterial infection, and it requires antibiotic treatment and sometimes surgery. Immune-related arthritis, feline progressive polyarthritis (which resembles rheumatoid arthritis in people), and Systemic lupus erythematosus, may have symptoms that come-and-go. Treatment options for these diseases may include anti-inflammatory medications and chemotherapeutic drugs. Other symptoms you may notice include a fever, and loss of appetite, a general feeling of sickness, and swelling in multiple joints. - Get to the Vet!
Remember that many medications used for dogs are toxic in cats, including acetaminophen (Tylenol).Water-therapy is considered for some pets, including cats. Your Vet may suggest you see a physical therapist, so don't be surprised if it is suggested to try getting your cat in the pool! (Some cats even like it)...(You'll have to see this to believe this --- or maybe you're cat is already in the water...)
Here's a Short Video About a Cat Who Loves to Swim!How cool was that?
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