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How to tell if my 12-year-old cat has arthritis and what to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 10 years and 5 months old | 8 lbs

Hi, how can I tell if my cat has arthritis?? She is a healthy, 12 year old cat, she's had harsh allergies to fleas, and is allergic to fish and many other foods sold for cats. So she is sensitive to her environment. Now, I've just come to notice how the ligaments behind her neck are very tense and around her ears as well. She is uncomfortable in some positions also. What can i do???!!!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on January 24th, 2019

At Angels age, arthritis is very likely. If you are noticing though that she is very tense, that may be something beyond arthritis. Typical signs of arthritis are a reluctance to jump and a decrease in grooming. You may possibly see some limping that the pet will warm out of as they begin walking around. I would recommend to get Angel checked by her veterinarian and make sure she did not injure her neck. Otherwise cats can take arthritis supplements. My favorite product is an injectable product called adequan but there is also an oral product called cosequin. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions!

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