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How can I tell if my aging cat is suffering from arthritis pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

How can you tell if a elderly cat may/has arthritis?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on November 16th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using PetCoach! Nurmal, that is one great name. Good question. X-rays of the bones and joints is the way that we would try to diagnose arthritis in cats. The arthritis has to be significant enough to produce radiographic changes. Some signs in cats are not as active as usual, crying/meowing a lot possibly indicating pain, not jumping up on furniture, counters, etc. Cats can suffer arthritis and it's important to be on the lookout for it as cats age. Treatment is available but some of the drugs that we use can have adverse side effects on some of the internal organs so it is always advised to do some blood work prior to starting some of the medications. Of course, some supplements can be used such as joint supplements and fish oil. I would advise that you check out the following website and these great supplements- http://www.vrshealth.com/feline-products/?petcoach=1977951 Check out the Osteo TruBenefits for cats and the Omega Benefits for small dogs and cats.

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