Does Your Cat Have Arthritis? Signs Every Owner Should Know

Is Your Cat Slowing Down, or Could It Be Arthritis?

Many cat owners assume their ageing cat is simply "slowing down." They sleep more, jump less, and seem less interested in playing. While these changes are often blamed on old age, they could actually be early signs of arthritis.

The surprising truth is that arthritis is extremely common in older cats, yet it frequently goes unnoticed because cats are experts at hiding pain. By the time obvious symptoms appear, your cat may have been living with discomfort for months or even years.

Recognising the early signs of arthritis can help your cat receive treatment sooner, improving both their comfort and quality of life.

What Is Arthritis in Cats?

Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears away. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones rub together, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Although arthritis can affect cats of any age following injury or joint disease, it is most commonly seen in senior cats. Research suggests that most cats over the age of 10 have some degree of arthritis, even if they show very few obvious signs.

Why Cats Hide Joint Pain

Unlike dogs, cats rarely limp or cry out when they're uncomfortable.

Instead, they instinctively hide signs of pain because, in the wild, appearing weak could make them vulnerable. This means behavioural changes are often the first clues that something isn't right.

Knowing what to look for can make all the difference.

8 Signs Your Cat May Have Arthritis

1. They Stop Jumping onto High Places

If your cat no longer jumps onto beds, windowsills, benches, or their favourite climbing spots, painful joints may be making these movements difficult.

Instead, they may choose lower resting places or hesitate before attempting a jump.

2. They're Less Active Than They Used to Be

A playful cat that suddenly prefers sleeping all day may not simply be getting older.

Reduced activity is one of the earliest and most common signs of arthritis.

3. Difficulty Going Up or Down Stairs

Cats with sore joints may climb stairs more slowly, avoid them altogether, or carefully take one step at a time.

4. Changes in Grooming Habits

Painful joints can make twisting and stretching uncomfortable.

You may notice:

• Matted fur

• An unkempt coat

• Greasy patches

• Difficulty grooming their back or hindquarters

Some cats may also overgroom painful joints, leading to thinning hair or bald patches.

5. Changes in Litter Tray Habits

If climbing into a high-sided litter tray becomes painful, your cat may begin toileting beside the tray instead.

This is often mistaken for a behavioural problem when it's actually a sign of discomfort.

6. Stiffness After Resting

Watch your cat after they've been sleeping.

Do they seem stiff when getting up? Do they take a few slow steps before moving normally?

Morning stiffness is a common symptom of arthritis.

7. Becoming Grumpier or Less Social

Cats experiencing chronic pain often become more withdrawn.

You may notice they:

• Avoid being picked up

• Dislike being touched around the hips or back

• Hide more often

• Become irritable around people or other pets

8. Sleeping More Than Normal

While senior cats naturally sleep more, excessive sleeping combined with reduced mobility may indicate chronic joint pain rather than normal ageing.

What Causes Arthritis in Cats?

Several factors increase the risk of arthritis, including:

• Ageing

• Previous injuries

• Joint abnormalities

• Obesity

• Wear and tear over time

Even indoor cats can develop arthritis as they grow older.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Arthritis cannot be cured, but it can be managed very successfully.

The earlier your veterinarian identifies joint disease, the sooner a personalised treatment plan can begin to help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Treatment may include:

• Weight management

• Joint supplements

• Pain relief medication

• Lifestyle adjustments at home

• Exercise recommendations

• Ongoing monitoring

Early intervention helps many cats remain comfortable, active, and independent for much longer.

Winter Can Make Arthritis Worse

Cold winter weather can increase joint stiffness, making movement more uncomfortable for senior cats.

If your cat seems slower or less active during winter, don't assume it's simply because of the colder weather. It may be the perfect time for a comprehensive health assessment.

Save 20% This July with Our Senior Winter Wellness Packages

July is the ideal time to give your senior cat a thorough health check.

From 1 July to 31 July, Paddington Vet is offering 20% off Senior Winter Wellness Packages, helping detect arthritis and other age-related health conditions before they become more serious.

Senior Cat Wellness Package – $373

Your package includes:

• Extended Consultation

• Comprehensive Blood Test including Total T4

• Blood Glucose Test

• Urine Test

These comprehensive health screenings provide valuable insights into your cat's overall wellbeing and help identify underlying conditions that may be contributing to changes in mobility or behaviour.

Senior Dog Wellness Package – $418

Also available for senior dogs, the package includes:

• Extended Consultation

• Comprehensive Blood Test

• Lump Check (FNA of up to 2 lumps)

• Urine Test

Give Your Senior Pet the Care They Deserve

Subtle changes in your cat's behaviour shouldn't be dismissed as "just old age." They may be the first signs of arthritis or another underlying health condition that can be managed with early veterinary care.

If your senior cat has been moving differently, grooming less, or avoiding their favourite activities, now is the perfect time to book a wellness assessment.

Take advantage of our limited-time 20% saving on Senior Winter Wellness Packages throughout July and help your pet stay comfortable, healthy, and active for years to come.

Book your Senior Wellness Package with Paddington Vet today.

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