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How to help my senior cat with chronic back pain and arthritis?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | 7 years and 6 months old | 9 lbs

7 yr cat surgery a year ago for a herniated disc. A month ago started having hind leg pain . Been on gabapentin for the last year. Vet x-rays significant arthritis formed in back and 2 more bulging disc. Won't put gim through another surgery. Been on prednisone 10mg day gabapentin 3 times a day for last month. Eats, grooms, uses litter box, and cuddles. He does growl or cry out in pain sometimes. He doesn't play or jump. He walks slowly . Can't make a decision. Advice?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 10th, 2018

Hi there, I'm sorry to hear what you and Pepe are going through. It sounds like he is on medications to alleviate his pain, and that you are doing all you can. I would consider trying acupuncture and cold laser for him. These therapies can really help with back pain. I would also think about his quality of life and these questions can help you make a decision, even though it's always difficult. 1) Does he enjoy his life? 2) Is he able to do normal cat things (eat, drink, use his box, play). I would also recommend keeping a calendar of good and bad days for Pepe and that may also help you decide how good his quality of life is. I hope that helps. Best wishes to you and Pepe.

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