Cat Arthritis in Senior Pets: Signs to Look For and How Medication Can Help

As cats get older, it is common for them to slow down a little. Many owners put this down to normal ageing, but in some cases, those subtle changes may be signs of arthritis. Arthritis in senior cats is more common than many people realise, and because cats are very good at hiding pain, it can easily go unnoticed.

The good news is that with the right support, many arthritic cats can enjoy a much better quality of life. Recognising the early signs and speaking to your veterinary surgeon about treatment options can make a real difference to your cat’s comfort, mobility and day-to-day wellbeing.

This article is intended for general guidance only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your veterinary surgeon.

What is arthritis in cats?

Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a condition where the joints become inflamed, stiff and painful over time. In senior cats, this usually happens because of gradual wear and tear in the joints as they age.

Healthy joints have smooth cartilage which helps bones move comfortably against one another. When arthritis develops, that protective surface becomes damaged. This can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced movement.

Arthritis can affect any joint, but in cats it is often seen in the elbows, hips, knees, spine and hocks. Older cats are especially at risk, although previous injuries, obesity and certain joint abnormalities can also contribute.

Why arthritis is often missed in senior cats

Cats are naturally very stoic animals. Unlike dogs, they may not limp obviously or cry out when something hurts. Instead, they often adapt their behaviour quietly. Because these changes can happen gradually, they are sometimes mistaken for your cat simply “slowing down”.

In reality, a cat that no longer jumps onto the sofa, avoids the stairs or sleeps more than usual may be showing signs of chronic pain.

This is why regular check-ups are especially important for older cats. A veterinary surgeon can assess your cat’s joints, mobility and general health, and help decide whether arthritis may be part of the problem.

Common signs of arthritis in senior cats

The signs of arthritis in cats are often subtle. You may notice one change, or several small changes over time.

Changes in movement

• Reluctance to jump up or down
• Difficulty using stairs
• Stiffness, especially after resting
• Less climbing or exploring
• Moving more slowly than usual
• Hesitation before jumping

Changes in behaviour

• Sleeping more or becoming less active
• Becoming irritable when touched or handled
• Hiding more often
• Less interest in play
• Reduced grooming, leading to a scruffy coat

Changes around the home

• Difficulty getting into the litter tray
• Accidents outside the tray because climbing in is uncomfortable
• Avoiding favourite raised sleeping spots
• Using furniture or steps to reach places they once jumped to easily

If you notice any of these changes, it is worth arranging a veterinary appointment rather than assuming it is just old age.

How arthritis is diagnosed

Your veterinary surgeon will usually begin by asking about the changes you have noticed at home. Because cats often hide pain during an examination, your observations are extremely valuable.

They may gently assess your cat’s joints and movement, and in some cases recommend X-rays or other tests. These can help confirm arthritis and rule out other conditions that may cause similar signs, such as neurological disease, muscle problems or other painful illnesses.

A full health check is important, particularly in senior cats, because treatment choices may depend on your cat’s kidneys, liver and overall health.

How medication can improve quality of life

Once arthritis has been diagnosed, medication can play an important role in helping your cat feel more comfortable. Pain relief is often one of the most effective ways to improve mobility and wellbeing in older cats.

When pain is better controlled, many cats become more active, more sociable and more willing to groom, move about and enjoy daily life again.

Prescription pain relief

Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe medication designed to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. These are prescription-only medicines and should only be given under veterinary guidance, as not all pain relief is safe for cats.

It is especially important never to give human painkillers to your cat unless specifically advised by a veterinary professional, as many common human medicines can be extremely dangerous for cats.

If your cat has been prescribed treatment, we offer a range of cat prescription products, and you can also read our guide on how to order a prescription medicine. For helpful general information, our prescription FAQs explain the process clearly for UK pet owners.

Long-term management

Arthritis is usually a long-term condition, so treatment may need to be reviewed and adjusted over time. Some cats benefit from regular pain relief, while others may need a broader management plan that also includes weight control, home adjustments and supportive supplements.

Routine follow-up appointments are important to make sure medication is working well and remains suitable for your cat as they age.

Other ways to support an arthritic cat

Medication is often central to treatment, but simple changes at home can also make a big difference.

Keep your cat at a healthy weight

Extra weight puts added strain on painful joints. If your cat is overweight, your veterinary surgeon may recommend a gradual weight management plan. Feeding an appropriate diet and monitoring portion sizes can help support joint health over time. You can browse helpful everyday options in our cat food & treats collection.

Make the home easier to navigate

• Provide low-sided litter trays for easier access
• Use steps or ramps to favourite resting places
• Place food, water and beds on one level if possible
• Offer warm, soft bedding in easy-to-reach areas
• Use non-slip mats on slippery floors

Consider joint support products

Some cats may benefit from joint care supplements as part of an overall management plan, although these should not replace proper pain relief if pain is present. If your veterinary surgeon feels a supplement may be useful, you can explore our cat joint care and cat supplements ranges for supportive options.

Encourage gentle activity

Complete rest is not usually helpful for arthritis. Gentle daily movement can help keep joints more flexible, but activity should be appropriate for your cat’s comfort level. Short play sessions, easy-access resting spots and avoiding awkward jumps can all help your cat stay active without overdoing it.

When to contact your veterinary surgeon

You should speak to your veterinary surgeon if your senior cat:

• Is struggling to jump, walk or use the litter tray
• Seems stiff, quiet or uncomfortable
• Has changed behaviour suddenly
• Stops grooming properly
• Cries out, hides, or resents being touched
• Already has arthritis but seems less comfortable than before

Early treatment can help manage pain sooner and may prevent your cat’s mobility and quality of life from declining further.

Ordering prescribed arthritis medication responsibly

If your veterinary surgeon prescribes medication for your cat’s arthritis, it is important to use it exactly as directed. Never change the dose or stop treatment without checking first, even if your cat seems brighter.

At Vetscriptions, we help UK pet owners access genuine veterinary medicines conveniently and responsibly. If you already have a valid prescription, you can browse our cat collection or complete the relevant details through our animal health form. If you need any help with your order, delivery or product information, please visit our contact page or see our postage & delivery information.

Conclusion

Arthritis is a common but often overlooked problem in older cats. Because the signs can be so subtle, many cats live with discomfort for longer than they need to. Spotting changes early, arranging a veterinary check-up and following a sensible treatment plan can greatly improve your cat’s comfort and quality of life.

With the right combination of pain relief, home support and ongoing veterinary care, many senior cats can stay comfortable, mobile and content well into later life.

If you are concerned that your cat may be showing signs of arthritis, we recommend speaking to your veterinary surgeon for advice and diagnosis. If treatment is prescribed, we are here to help you order responsibly and conveniently through Vetscriptions. You can also explore our cat pain relief products, cat joint care and wider cat healthcare range for ongoing support.

From all of us at Vetscriptions, we are here to help you make informed, confident choices about your pet’s health and wellbeing.