guest publish by Lorie Huston, DVM
Living with a senior feline has benefits in addition to difficulties that are a bit different than those encountered when living with a younger cat. pain is, of course, something we don’t want to see in any type of of our pets. However, senior cats are much more likely to establish conditions as well as illnesses that produce pain as well as discomfort. Arthritis is a typical however frequently unrecognized condition in older cats. In one study, 90 percent of cats over 12 years of age showed radiographic (X-ray) evidence of arthritis*.
Unfortunately, acknowledging arthritis in cats is difficult at best. numerous of our cats hide their pain extremely effectively. While we may in some cases see our older feline limping or favoring one leg or another, much more frequently than not our arthritic cats just ended up being less active. They spend much more time sleeping as well as resting. They may be reluctant to jump onto surfaces that were quickly available previously. In fact, numerous of us error these symptoms of arthritis for typical aging. as well often, we just presume that it’s typical for an older feline to sleep much more as well as be less active without ever wondering whether pain may be playing a part. We may even presume that our arthritic feline is discovering manners or showing much better habits since he no longer jumps onto the countertops. What ought to we do about this? first of all as well as many importantly, if in question about whether your feline is hurting, presume that he is as well as take suitable measures.
Joint supplements including glucosamine and/or chondroitin can assist some cats.
Omega-3 fatty acids can assist alleviate pain from arthritis as well as other causes.
Adequan is an injectable product that can be utilized to assist alleviate arthritis pain as well as is efficient for numerous cats.
Other medications are offered to assist alleviate your cat’s pain as well, as well as may be required if the previous products are ineffective or do not sufficiently alleviate your cat’s pain. These include tramadol, gabapentin, Fentanyl, as well as others. Your veterinarian will assist you identify which medication is finest fit for your cat.
For some cats, alternate therapies such as acupuncture, hydrotherapy, as well as even massage can assist simplicity the pain of arthritis.
Weight loss, if appropriate, can assist alleviate tension as well as pressure on sensitive joints as well as assist make arthritic cats much more comfortable. speak with your veterinarian to establish a risk-free as well as efficient weight loss plan for your overweight arthritic cat.
Exercise can likewise keep joints as well as muscles supple. exercise can likewise be efficient in burning calories as well as assisting with weight loss where necessary.
Provide your feline with soft bed linen in the type of a pet bed or blanket on which to sleep and/or rest.
Make sure your cat’s litter box is in an quickly available place as well as is simple for your feline to go into as well as exit. Do not location your cat’s only litter box in a basement or attic far from where your feline spends many of his time. think about utilizing a litter box with low sides for simple access.
Though arthritis is not a curable condition, the pain it triggers can be controlled. However, the very first step is acknowledging that it exists. Do you have a senior feline that might be suffering from arthritis?
Lorie Huston has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 20 years. Besides a successful profession in a hectic little animal medical facility in Providence, RI, Lorie is likewise a successful freelance writer specializing in pet care as well as pet health and wellness topics.
This short article has previously been published by PetMd as well as has been republished with permission.
Photo: morguefile
* Source: Hardie EM, Roe SC, Martin FR. Radiographic evidence of degenerative joint illness in geriatric cats: 100 situations (1994-1997). J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:628-632.
Ingrid King
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12 comments on Living with an arthritic senior cat
Linda says:
November 12, 2012 at 3:33 pm
what dosage of omega-3 would you suggest for a feline is roughly 13-14 pounds? I took in a 13 year old feline that has some arthritis in her back leg; have gotten her weight down as well as have her on a everyday glucosamine pill; she’s moving around much better. would like to try natural remedies before any type of prescription meds. say thanks to you
Reply
Ingrid says:
November 12, 2012 at 5:47 pm
Linda, the dose will vary depending upon the product. I like the Nordic Nanull