Cats Get Arthritis Too

Because cats are relatively small and very agile they are even better than dogs at hiding or covering up mobility difficulties caused by arthritis. We generally don't take cats for a walk around the block so it is hard to see a limp or change in gait. Pain commonly goes unnoticed in our feline friends so watch out for these subtle signs:

Mobility

• Your cat may hesitate when jumping up or down from your lap or from the furniture
• She may not land very gracefully when jumping down
• Will be reluctant to climb the fence or climb trees
• Will be unwilling to move freely in and out of cat flap
• She may no longer use the litter box, especially if it has high sides

Temperament

• She may be less tolerant around people and be reluctant to be picked up or moved
• Hissing, scratching or even biting when touched
• More withdrawn and less likely to interact with you or other pets she usually tolerates

Appearance

• Matted or scruffy coat; she may be too sore to turn around and groom herself
• Your cat’s nails may not wear down as quickly as they once did simply because she is less active