1-15 Lexington Rd, Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
SEARCH
A Helpful Guide to Arthritis in Cats
Arthritis in cats: A helpful guide for cat owners
Did you know that almost 90% of cats over the age of 12 show signs of osteoarthritis (OA) on x-rays? It’s a common condition that can affect cats of all ages, even as young as 2. While arthritis is more often associated with older cats, it’s essential to recognise that the wear and tear on joints can begin much earlier.
In this post, we’ll explore osteoarthritis, the signs to watch for, and practical ways you can help your cat live more comfortably if it is diagnosed with arthritis.
What is osteoarthritis (OA) in cats?
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions your cat’s joints starts to break down, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. This condition often affects joints like the elbows, hips, hocks, and stifles (knees). Many cats may have multiple joints affected at once.
OA can be subtle, and some cat owners may mistake the reduced activity and increased sleep as simply a sign of aging. However, this change in behaviour could be a sign of joint discomfort.
Signs of arthritis in cats
If your cat is showing any of the following signs, they may be suffering from arthritis:
- Stiffness when rising or walking
- Reduced activity levels or reluctance to play
- Less grooming, especially around the hindquarters
- Aggression or irritability when touched
- Reluctance to jump onto furniture or surfaces
- Difficulty posturing normally to urinate or defecate
- Constipation
- Toileting outside the litter tray
- Lethargy or reduced energy
- Pain or stiffness when joints are moved
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth consulting your vet. They may use a screening questionnaire to assess your cat’s symptoms further.
Diagnosing osteoarthritis in cats
Diagnosing arthritis involves looking at clinical signs, a physical examination, and diagnostic imaging like X-rays. An orthopedic examination can help identify changes in individual joints, pain, and a reduced range of motion (ROM).
Your vet might also ask you to film your cat at home if they have difficulty jumping or moving. This can provide valuable information for the diagnosis. X-rays may show irregular new bone growth or mineralisation within the joints, which are telltale signs of osteoarthritis.
Managing arthritis is a long-term commitment, but there are many ways to improve your cat’s quality of life.
Your vet may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Still, these can require regular blood and urine testing to ensure they’re safe, especially in cats with kidney or liver issues.
Other pain management options may include acupuncture or additional medications tailored to your cat’s needs. Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids may help joint health. While the scientific evidence on their effectiveness in cats is still inconclusive, they are generally safe and may provide relief.
If your cat is overweight, shedding those extra kilos can make a huge difference in managing arthritis. Obesity puts additional stress on their joints and increases the risk of other conditions, like diabetes. Work with your vet to find the proper low-calorie diet and gentle exercise options, such as using food puzzles to encourage movement.
“Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions joints breaks down.”
Making a few environmental adjustments
Making your home more accessible for your cat can significantly improve its comfort. Such things as using low-sided litter trays or large, shallow containers with one side trimmed for easy access are successful.
Set up ramps or stairs to help your cat reach their favorite resting spots and provide warm, padded bedding to support their joints.
Place non-slip mats where they may struggle to move, especially around the litter tray or food bowls, and consider soft cat litter that’s gentle on their paws.
Cats with osteoarthritis benefit from routine checkups, as untreated pain can become more challenging to manage over time due to central sensitisation. The longer your cat’s pain goes unmanaged, the more difficult it is to control, making early and consistent treatment essential for preserving its quality of life.
Considerations for older cats
If your cat is older and has kidney disease or other medical conditions, your vet may need to be cautious with certain medications. Regular blood and urine testing is often recommended to ensure any prescribed drugs are safe for your cat. However, many older cats can still safely benefit from medications like NSAIDs as long as they are closely monitored.
Arthritis can significantly impact your cat’s daily life, but with the right care, you can help them stay active and comfortable. If you suspect your cat is struggling with arthritis, contact your vet for an evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Small changes can significantly enhance your cat’s comfort and overall well-being.
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is arthritis in cats?
Arthritis, also called osteoarthritis, develops when the cartilage that protects a cat’s joints begins to deteriorate. This can lead to inflammation, stiffness and discomfort.
What are the signs of arthritis in cats?
Cats with arthritis may show stiffness, reduced activity or reluctance to jump onto furniture. Some cats may also groom less or appear uncomfortable when touched.
How is arthritis diagnosed in cats?
Diagnosis usually involves assessing clinical signs and performing a physical examination. Imaging such as X-rays may also be used to confirm joint changes.
Can arthritis affect multiple joints in cats?
Yes, many cats with osteoarthritis have more than one joint affected. Common areas include the hips, elbows, knees and hocks.
How can I help a cat with arthritis at home?
Providing ramps, warm bedding and non-slip surfaces can help reduce strain on joints. Your vet may also recommend treatment options depending on your cat’s condition.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Popeye coughs up the culprit
Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.
Key Takeaways
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions a cat’s joints begins to break down.
The condition can cause stiffness, swelling and pain in joints such as the hips, elbows or knees.
Signs may include reduced activity, difficulty jumping and changes in grooming habits.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
on 
Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed