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My cat is hiding, slow, and won't move. Could it be arthritis?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 years and 9 months old | 17 lbs

My cat as of recently has been hiding and laying in secluded places and was hissing at us when we tried to pick him up. Now he seems better but is still slow and doesn't really want to get up, but he is not hissing at us?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 8th, 2017

Whenever there is a behavior change in a cat, we suspect an underlying disease condition or painful area (arthritis for example). With him hunching down I would suspect a possible arthritis and recommend getting him examined by your vet to determine if x-rays are indicated here. You can also try over the counter joint supplements such as Cosequin, to see if his condition improves. Best of luck with Socks!

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