How to reduce your cat’s risk of developing arthritis
Arthritis in cats, also called osteoarthritis, is a common condition that leads to stiff, sore, and swollen joints which interfere with your cat’s comfort and mobility.
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce your cat’s risk of developing arthritis that are based on simple lifestyle changes.
In this article, we share three ways to prevent arthritis in cats to help you keep your cat healthy, active, and agile throughout their life.
Arthritis in Cats
Before we delve into arthritis prevention, it’s important to first understand what arthritis is and how it develops.
In cats, healthy joints have adequate cartilage and synovial fluid to allow their bones to move smoothly. Arthritis describes the process when these protective structures break down, resulting in pain and inflammation.
Arthritis in cats most commonly occurs in the spine, shoulders, hips, knees (stifles) and ankles (tarsi).
There are three main causes of arthritis in cats, including:
- Wear and tear –over your cat’s lifetime, normal wear and tear can lead to arthritis as they age. However, with correct nutrition, regular activity and feeding supplements from an early age, you can protect your cat’s joints.
- Genetics – certain breeds of cats are at greater risk of developing arthritis due to predispositions to hip and elbow dysplasia, joint problems and bone defects. Speak with your veterinarian to determine your cat’s level of risk.
- Injuries – damage to your cat’s joints can leave them vulnerable to arthritis later in life. If your cat suffers a major injury, such as a road accident or dislocation, they may be at increased risk of developing arthritis.
How to Prevent Arthritis in Cats
Now, let’s get onto the good news! There are three easy ways that you can promote healthy joints and prevent arthritis for your cat. These are:
- Maintain a healthy weight – excess weight places unnecessary strain on your cat’s joints, so it’s vital that you keep them at a healthy weight.
- Feed for their life stage – your cat’s diet should be suitable for their stage in life, providing them with the correct blend of protein, vitamins and minerals.
- Keep them active – regular activity through play and providing obstacles that encourage movement supports the development of strong muscles and joints.
BONUS TIP: Feed a supplement – while a well-balanced diet goes a long way, veterinary approved feline joint supplements provide your cat with the optimum ratio of targeted nutrients for healthy joints and cartilage.
Our daily joint supplement, 4CYTE™ for cats, is trusted by veterinarians and specially formulated for our feline friends. It contains our exclusive active ingredient Epiitalis® to protect, maintain and promote healthy joints.