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What to do for my senior cat's arthritis when Metacam isn't working?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 13 years old | 8.8 lbs

My 13 year old cat had xrays last Friday and diagnosed with Osteoarthritis. Her symptoms are just a hobble in the left front shoulder area when she walks - nothing more, she is as agile as a kitten, climbs stairs, runs, eats, grooms, is playful etc but developed this hobble about 4 months ago. Sometimes is less than other times, hence not taking her to the vets before now. She has been given one Metacam injection and the oral suspension in her food but really showing no signs of improvement.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 24th, 2017

Hi thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Osteoarthritis is unfortunately a common issue as pets get older you may want to discuss with your veterinarian adding supplements to Ebony's food such as Xhosa Quinn for cats, and possibly Fish oil. These will not be a miracle cure but over the course of months can help decrease pain and inflammation in her joints. Medicate them is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory's which can help some with pain but is not going to cure the issue. Unfortunately and cats we are somewhat limited to medications that we can try because of their unique physiology and metabolism but be sure to let your veterinarian know if you feel the medication is not working or how well it is working and they can help formulate a Plan to get Evan a comfortable again. And some pets physical therapy as an option and may help also while we do want her to exercise and be active try to limit her jumping up-and-down on furniture or potentially limit climbing areas as well as that may further stress her arthritic joint. Good luck to Ebony.

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