CONDITION

Arthritis in Cats

A degenerative joint condition that is common in older cats but often goes unrecognised due to subtle behavioural changes.

Why this matters now

Arthritis in cats is significantly more common than historically recognised, with studies suggesting that the majority of cats over the age of twelve show radiographic evidence of degenerative joint changes. However, cats are exceptionally skilled at masking discomfort, meaning that clinical signs are frequently subtle and easily attributed to normal ageing. Increased awareness and improved recognition of feline pain behaviours have led to more frequent identification in recent years.

The condition typically progresses gradually over months to years, though the rate varies between individuals and may be influenced by factors such as body weight, activity level, and which joints are involved. Cats often compensate for joint discomfort by modifying their behaviour rather than showing obvious lameness. The progression may appear as a slow narrowing of the cat's activity range rather than a sudden deterioration, with some joints being more significantly affected than others.

Signals & patterns

Early signals

Reduced jumping height or frequency

Cats that previously jumped onto countertops, windowsills, or high furniture may begin using intermediate surfaces or hesitating before jumping. Some cats stop accessing favourite elevated resting spots entirely, shifting to lower alternatives. Because cats typically adapt quietly, this change can evolve over weeks to months before it becomes noticeable. The shift may be more apparent in environments where the cat previously navigated multiple levels confidently.

Changes in grooming patterns

Cats with joint discomfort may groom less thoroughly, particularly in areas that require twisting or stretching to reach, such as the lower back, hind legs, and tail base. The coat in these areas may become dull, matted, or develop dandruff. Conversely, some cats may over-groom areas overlying painful joints, leading to hair thinning or bald patches. These grooming changes often develop gradually and may initially be attributed to skin conditions rather than underlying joint discomfort.

Subtle changes in litter tray habits

Stiffness in the hips, stifles, or spine can make climbing into a high-sided litter tray uncomfortable. Cats may begin eliminating just outside the tray, using a tray less frequently, or choosing alternative locations that are easier to access. This behavioural change is frequently misinterpreted as a behavioural or urinary problem rather than a pain response. Switching to a tray with lower sides sometimes reveals the connection between joint discomfort and changed toileting habits.

Decreased interest in play or hunting behaviour

A reduction in interactive play, pouncing, chasing, or toy engagement may reflect joint discomfort affecting the cat's willingness to make quick, dynamic movements. Cats that previously stalked and chased may simply watch instead, or lose interest more quickly during play sessions. This change can be so gradual that it is attributed to the cat maturing or becoming less playful with age rather than being recognised as a potential indicator of physical discomfort.

Later signals

Reluctance to be handled or stroked in certain areas

Cats may flinch, move away, or show signs of irritation when touched along the spine, hips, or other areas overlying affected joints. Some cats that were previously tolerant of handling may become defensive or swipe when picked up. This change in response to touch can be intermittent, with some days being more sensitive than others, and may be affected by temperature, recent activity, or how long the cat has been resting.

Altered gait or stiffness

While cats rarely limp in the way dogs do, careful observation may reveal a slightly stiffer gait, shorter stride length, or reduced fluidity of movement, particularly after rest. Some cats adopt a more cautious, deliberate way of moving, especially on slippery surfaces. Stiffness after prolonged rest that improves with gentle movement is a pattern commonly associated with joint changes, though it may be more subtle in cats than in other species.

Increased sleeping and reduced overall activity

Cats with advancing joint discomfort may spend significantly more time sleeping and less time patrolling, exploring, or engaging with the household. They may choose resting spots that require minimal effort to reach and remain in the same position for longer periods. While increased sleep is common in older cats generally, a noticeable reduction in waking activity alongside other subtle changes may suggest that discomfort is contributing to the pattern.

Muscle wasting over the hindquarters

Reduced use of the hind limbs due to joint discomfort can lead to visible loss of muscle mass over the thighs and pelvis. The spine and hip bones may become more prominent. This muscle atrophy develops gradually and can be difficult to detect in cats with longer coats. Regular body condition assessment through gentle palpation can reveal changes that are not visible through the coat.

Click to read about the biological mechanisms

How this is usually investigated

Investigation of arthritis in cats involves careful assessment of behaviour, physical examination, and imaging. Because cats often mask discomfort, the diagnostic process frequently relies on recognising patterns of behavioural change alongside physical findings rather than a single definitive test.

Owner history and behavioural assessment

Purpose: A detailed discussion about changes in the cat's daily habits, mobility, grooming, litter tray use, social behaviour, and comfort with handling provides essential context. Standardised feline musculoskeletal pain assessment tools can help structure this conversation and identify changes that may not have been spontaneously reported. Owner-recorded video of the cat moving at home can reveal natural gait patterns that may not be apparent during a clinical examination.
Considerations: Many changes associated with feline arthritis develop gradually and may be normalised by owners as part of ageing. Specific, targeted questions about each behavioural domain tend to be more revealing than open-ended enquiries. Comparing current behaviour to a year or two previously can help highlight changes that might otherwise go unrecognised.

Physical and orthopaedic examination

Purpose: Gentle palpation of the limbs and spine can identify areas of pain, reduced range of motion, joint thickening, crepitus, and muscle asymmetry. Assessment of the cat's gait, posture, and willingness to move during the consultation provides additional information. The examination aims to identify which joints are affected and the degree of discomfort associated with manipulation.
Considerations: Many cats become tense or immobile during veterinary examinations, which can mask or exaggerate findings. Sedation is sometimes used for a more thorough assessment, particularly if the cat is very stressed. Examination findings should be interpreted alongside the behavioural history, as some cats with significant joint changes may show minimal response to palpation, while others may react strongly due to anxiety rather than pain.

Radiography

Purpose: X-rays can reveal degenerative joint changes including osteophyte formation, joint space narrowing, subchondral sclerosis, and soft tissue swelling. They help confirm the presence of structural changes and identify which joints are affected. Radiography of the spine is particularly relevant in cats, as spondylosis and intervertebral changes are common contributors to discomfort.
Considerations: Radiographic changes do not correlate reliably with the degree of clinical discomfort in cats. Some cats with extensive radiographic changes appear relatively comfortable, while others with subtle changes may show significant behavioural alterations. Sedation or anaesthesia is typically required for proper positioning, which adds to the procedure's complexity. The decision to pursue radiography is often guided by the clinical picture and whether imaging findings would change the management approach.

Response to trial analgesia

Purpose: A carefully monitored trial of pain relief medication can serve as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. If a cat shows measurable improvement in mobility, activity, or behaviour during a trial period, this supports the conclusion that discomfort was contributing to the observed changes. This approach is particularly valuable when other diagnostic findings are equivocal.
Considerations: Assessing response in cats requires careful observation of behavioural parameters rather than relying on owner perception alone. Using objective measures such as activity monitoring or structured behavioural scoring can help quantify any change. The choice of analgesic for a trial needs to consider the cat's overall health, including kidney and gastrointestinal function, and the trial should be conducted under veterinary supervision with appropriate monitoring.

Options & trade-offs

Management of arthritis in cats typically involves a combination of environmental adaptation, weight management, and in many cases pharmaceutical intervention. The approach is often multimodal, recognising that different strategies may complement each other, and tends to evolve over time as the individual cat's response and needs become clearer.

Environmental modification

Adapting the home environment to reduce the physical demands on affected joints can have a significant impact on a cat's comfort and function. This may include providing steps or ramps to favourite resting spots, lowering or modifying litter tray sides, placing food and water at comfortable heights, providing padded bedding in warm locations, and ensuring the cat can access essential resources without navigating stairs. The aim is to enable the cat to maintain its normal routines with less physical effort.

Trade-offs: Effective environmental modification requires understanding the individual cat's daily patterns and preferences, which may not always be obvious. Some cats may resist changes to their environment or take time to adapt to new arrangements. The extent of modification needed often increases as the condition progresses, requiring ongoing adjustment. While environmental changes carry no medical risks, their effectiveness as a sole intervention may be limited in cats with more significant discomfort.

Weight management

Maintaining a lean body condition reduces the mechanical load on affected joints and may slow the progression of degenerative changes. In overweight cats, even modest weight reduction can produce measurable improvements in mobility and activity levels. This typically involves controlled feeding, portion management, and potentially transitioning to a calorie-controlled diet.

Trade-offs: Achieving weight loss in cats requires careful management to avoid hepatic lipidosis, a serious liver condition that can develop if cats lose weight too rapidly or stop eating. Weight reduction in cats with concurrent conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes may require specific dietary considerations. Multi-cat households present particular challenges for portion control. The process is gradual and requires ongoing commitment.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication

Long-acting NSAIDs designed specifically for cats, including meloxicam (in certain regions) and more recently robenacoxib, can provide significant pain relief and improve mobility. The development of long-term licensed formulations for cats has expanded the options for sustained pain management. Newer monoclonal antibody therapies targeting nerve growth factor, such as frunevetmab, offer monthly injections with a different mechanism of action.

Trade-offs: Long-term NSAID use in cats requires consideration of kidney function, gastrointestinal health, and hydration status. Regular monitoring blood work is typically part of ongoing management. Cats with pre-existing kidney disease may have limited options with traditional NSAIDs, though the newer monoclonal antibody therapies avoid renal concerns. Individual responses vary, and some cats may tolerate one formulation better than another. Cost and availability of newer therapies may also be factors.

Joint supplements and nutraceuticals

Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, or green-lipped mussel extract are sometimes used as part of a multimodal approach. Some therapeutic diets incorporate these ingredients directly. The intention is to support joint health and may have modest anti-inflammatory effects.

Trade-offs: The evidence base for nutraceuticals in feline arthritis is still developing, and responses tend to be subtle. Supplements are generally well tolerated but may not provide sufficient benefit as a standalone intervention for cats with significant discomfort. They may be most useful as part of a broader management plan rather than as a primary treatment. Palatability can be an issue with some formulations, as cats are often particular about taste and texture.

Physical rehabilitation and acupuncture

Gentle physiotherapy, massage, range-of-motion exercises, and in some cats, acupuncture, may help maintain joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support comfort. These approaches are typically guided by practitioners with specific feline expertise, as techniques need to be adapted for cats' temperament and size.

Trade-offs: Access to feline-specific rehabilitation services varies considerably by location. Many cats do not tolerate manual therapy or hydrotherapy, and the stress of the process may outweigh potential benefits for some individuals. Regular sessions involve ongoing cost and time commitment. The evidence base for some of these modalities in cats is less established than in dogs, though clinical experience supports their use in selected patients.

Common misconceptions

Misconception:

"Cats do not get arthritis or it is very rare"

Reality:

Research consistently demonstrates that degenerative joint disease is extremely common in cats, with studies using radiography finding evidence of joint changes in a large majority of cats over ten years of age. The historical underdiagnosis reflects the difficulty of recognising feline pain rather than the rarity of the condition. Cats are particularly adept at compensating for joint discomfort through behavioural modification rather than showing obvious signs such as limping.

Misconception:

"A cat that is not limping is not in pain"

Reality:

Cats rarely display lameness as a primary sign of arthritis, unlike dogs. Instead, they tend to reduce their activity, change their habits, and avoid movements that cause discomfort. A cat may stop jumping, groom less thoroughly, sleep more, or become less social without ever showing an obvious limp. The absence of lameness is therefore not a reliable indicator of comfort in cats, and behavioural changes are often more revealing than gait assessment.

Misconception:

"Nothing can be done for arthritis in cats because they cannot tolerate pain medication"

Reality:

While cats do metabolise many medications differently from dogs, the range of safe and effective pain management options for feline arthritis has expanded significantly. Licensed long-term formulations, newer monoclonal antibody therapies, and multimodal approaches combining environmental modification, weight management, and appropriate pharmaceuticals have made effective management achievable for many cats. The approach requires feline-specific knowledge and careful monitoring, but the perception that cats cannot be treated for chronic pain is outdated.

Understanding how arthritis affects an individual cat often involves observing changes in behaviour and habits over time rather than looking for dramatic signs. Cats tend to adjust their routines incrementally, and recognising these subtle shifts can provide valuable insight. Keeping track of jumping habits, grooming patterns, and activity preferences may help build a clearer picture of how the condition is affecting comfort and daily life.

Last reviewed: 24 April 2026 · Dr Alastair Greenway MRCVS