Aging cats frequently experience joints that become inflamed (swollen) and painful as the cartilage and connective tissues of his joints slowly break down. Warning signs that your feline is suffering from arthritis can start with just a reluctance to stand up or climb stairs.
Other telltale signs of feline arthritis include:
- Your cat favors one side of his body
- Limping, especially when he first gets up
- Swollen joints (especially the hips)
- Reduced appetite
- Aversion to being touched or petted
- Hiding and avoiding attention
Overweight cats tend to suffer from arthritis more often than smaller breeds. This is most likely attributable to the extra body weight putting additional stress on the joints.
There is no way to entirely eliminate the risk of feline arthritis. But as a pet owner, you can reduce the risk by ensuring your cat gets plenty of regular exercise, without overdoing it. This will help keep your cat's joints healthy and well lubricated. It will also keep him from becoming overweight, which tends to make matters worse. Ease your kitty’s mobility with a natural supplement to increase the natural lubrication and reduce inflammation of the joints.
