Signs of arthritis in cats: causes, symptoms and treatment
Always talk to your vet before starting any new treatment for your cat. This article is for information only and isn't a replacement for professional veterinary advice.
Is your cat moving more slowly than before? Do they skip their favourite jumping spots?
These small changes can be easy to miss, but they might be early signs of arthritis in cats.
Arthritis is very common in older cats.
And because cats are very good at hiding pain, many pet owners don't notice it until things have got worse.
The good news is that with early detection and the right care, your cat can still live a happy, comfortable life.
This guide will help you understand what arthritis is, what causes it, and how to treat arthritis in cats at home and with your vet's help.
Table of Contents
A quick look: signs, causes and treatments
| Signs | Causes | Treatments |
|---|---|---|
| Stiff movement | Ageing | Pain medicine (NSAIDs) |
| Avoiding jumps | Excess weight | Joint supplements |
| Litter tray trouble | Hip dysplasia | Weight management |
| Mood changes | Breed (Maine Coons, Scottish Folds) | Laser therapy |
| Less grooming | Past injuries | Physical therapy |
| Weight loss | Degenerative joint disease | Warm, supportive bed |
What is cat arthritis?
The most common type of arthritis in cats is osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease (CVS Vets).
It happens when the soft cushion inside a cat's joints slowly wears away.
When that cushion is gone, the bones rub against each other.
This causes pain and swelling, and it's a progressive disease.
That means it gets worse over time, and it's also very common.
Most cats over the age of 12 show signs of it. But it can affect cats of all ages, not just senior cats.
What causes arthritis in cats?
There's no single cause.
Most of the time, a few things work together to cause joint pain over time.
1. Getting older
As a cat ages, their joints slowly wear down.
This is the most common cause of arthritis.
Senior cats and older cats are most at risk.
2. Being overweight
Overweight cats put extra pressure on their joints every time they move.
This speeds up joint damage.
Excess weight is one of the biggest risk factors for arthritis pain.
3. Breed
Some breeds are born with joint problems.
Maine Coons often develop degenerative joint disease.
Scottish Folds have a cartilage problem that can cause painful joints all over their body.
4. Past injuries
Old injuries can change the way a joint moves.
Over time, this leads to more wear and more pain.
5. Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is when the hip joint doesn't form the right way. (PetMD)
This can cause arthritis later in life.
Which cats are most at risk?
Some cats are more likely to develop arthritis than others:
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Senior cats and older cats, especially those over 10
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Overweight cats, who carry extra strain on their joints
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Maine Coons and Scottish Folds, who have a breed-specific risk
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Cats with past injuries or joint problems
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Cats with a lower activity level who have lost muscle over time
That said, this is a common condition that can affect any cat.
Even younger cats can develop arthritis under the right conditions.
Related: How does a dog cooling mat work? Prevent dog overheating
Signs of arthritis in cats
Cats hide pain very well, and the signs are often subtle changes that build up slowly.
In fact, many cat owners don't notice them straight away.
Here's what to look out for:
1. Moving differently
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Your cat pauses before jumping up or down
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They jump lower than before — or stop jumping altogether
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They walk more stiffly, especially first thing in the morning
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They seem slow or careful when moving around
2. Less activity
An affected cat may sleep more and play less.
If your cat used to love a good zoomie around the house and now just sits still most of the day, that's a red flag.
3. Avoiding favourite spots
Arthritic cats often stop going to their favourite spots, like the top of the cat tree or the windowsill.
Getting there hurts, so they simply stop trying.
4. Grooming changes
A cat with sore joints may not be able to reach all parts of their body to clean themselves.
Their coat may look dull or messy.
Or they may lick one spot too much if it hurts.
5. Litter tray trouble
Climbing in and out of a litter tray can hurt when joints are sore.
If your cat starts missing the tray or avoiding it altogether, that could be a sign of pain.
6. Mood changes
A cat in pain may become grumpy or pull away when touched.
Your cat's mood can change a lot when they're hurting.
A sweet cat may become snappy. A playful cat may become quiet and withdrawn.
7. Weight loss
Pain can put cats off their food.
If your cat is losing weight for no obvious reason, it's worth a trip to the vet.
Related: Best dog bed for senior dogs with arthritis: complete guide
How do vets diagnose arthritis?
If you notice any of these signs, take your cat to the vet.
Here's what to expect:
1. Physical exam
Your vet will watch how your cat walks and moves.
They'll gently feel the joints to check for swelling or pain.
This thorough physical examination tells the vet a great deal.
2. Medical history
Tell your vet about any behavioural changes, changes in activity, and how long you've noticed things.
Your cat's medical history helps the vet work out what's going on.
3. X-rays and blood tests
X-rays can show bone spurs and worn-down joint spaces.
Blood tests check for other health problems and make sure your cat is healthy enough for treatment.
Early detection is so important. The sooner you catch it, the more you can do to help.
How to treat arthritis in cats
There are many good treatment options for cat arthritis.
Most cats do best with a mix of treatments, rather than just one thing.
Here's a look at what works.
1. Pain medicine
Vets often prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
These help reduce swelling and ease pain.
Never give your cat human pain medicine.
It can be very dangerous for cats.
Always follow your vet's instructions.
Some cats need to be monitored closely for side effects when taking these long term.
2. Joint supplements
Joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin help protect the cartilage in your cat's joints.
Fatty acids (like omega-3s) also help reduce swelling.
These are usually safe to use long term.
3. Weight management
Helping your cat reach a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do.
Even a small amount of weight loss takes pressure off sore joints.
Your vet may suggest a special diet to help with weight management.
4. Laser therapy
Laser therapy uses gentle light to reduce swelling and help tissue heal.
It doesn't hurt, and many cats actually relax during it.
It can be a great way to manage pain without extra medicine.
5. Physical therapy
Physical therapy for cats includes gentle exercises and massage.
It helps keep muscles strong and joints moving.
A vet or trained specialist can show you what to do at home, too.
6. Alternative therapies
Some cats do well with alternative therapies like acupuncture.
These can work well alongside other treatments, especially for cats who can't take medicine easily.
7. Regular vet visits
Arthritis is a progressive condition, and it changes over time.
Regular check-ups let your vet adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Staying on top of veterinary care makes a big difference in the long run.
Sadly, no. Arthritis doesn’t go away, and it usually gets worse over time.
The good news is that there are many ways to help. Your vet can put together a treatment plan that may include medicine, weight management, joint supplements, and simple changes at home. With the right care, many cats with arthritis still live happy, comfortable lives.
The good news is that there are many ways to help. Your vet can put together a treatment plan that may include medicine, weight management, joint supplements, and simple changes at home. With the right care, many cats with arthritis still live happy, comfortable lives.
Why early detection matters
The earlier you catch arthritis, the more you can do to help.
Early intervention slows the damage and keeps your cat more comfortable for longer.
Many pet owners wait until their cat is clearly struggling.
But by then, more damage has already been done.
The subtle signs (slower jumps, grumpier moods, and spending less time playing) are worth paying attention to.
Your cat's senior years can still be happy years.
Your furry friend doesn't have to live in pain.
With the right support, most arthritic cats can enjoy a good quality of life for a long time.
Related: Why does my cat sleep on my bed?
How to help your cat at home
Your home set-up matters a lot for an arthritic cat.
Small changes can make your cat's mobility and daily life much easier.
1. Add ramps or steps
If your cat has a favourite spot they can no longer reach, a ramp or some low steps give them easy access without the pain of jumping.
2. Use a low-sided litter tray
Switch to a litter tray with low or cut-down sides.
Your cat should be able to step in without having to climb or stretch.
3. Raise the food and water bowls
Bending all the way down to the floor can hurt.
Slightly raised water bowls and food dishes are much easier on sore necks and shoulders.
4. Keep everything on one floor
Put the food, water bowls, litter tray and bed all on the same level.
This means less climbing and less pain for your feline friend.
5. Give them a warm, cosy bed
Cold, hard floors make joint pain worse.
A soft, warm bed that cushions the joints can make a real difference — especially overnight, when stiffness tends to set in.
The MrFluffyFriend Cat Bed is a great choice for arthritic cats.
It has thick, plush filling that cushions sore joints.
The raised, bolstered edges let your cat rest their head and neck without any strain.
The soft material holds in warmth, which helps soothe stiff joints.
It's simple, cosy, and genuinely helpful as part of your cat's daily care.
A good bed is something pet parents often overlook, but for a cat in pain, it makes a real difference every single day.
Final thoughts
Cat arthritis is a common condition.
It's also a progressive disease, so it won't go away on its own.
But with early detection, good veterinary care, and a few changes at home, your feline pal can still have a full, happy life.
Watch for the small, subtle signs. Trust your instincts if something feels off.
And don't wait too long to see the vet. The sooner you act, the more you can do.
Your cat counts on you to notice.
And with the right care, you can give them the comfort and joint health they deserve — all the way through their senior years.
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