A–Z topic · A
Arthritis in cats
Quick answer
**Arthritis affects many UK cats over seven**, but signs are easy to miss because cats hide pain. Watch for reduced jumping, stiffness and grooming changes. Vet-prescribed pain relief, weight management and home adaptations keep cats comfortable — **never give human painkillers**.
Key takeaways
- Your vet examines joints for pain and reduced mobility. X-rays confirm degenerative joint changes. Blood tests are usually taken before starting long-term anti-inflammatory medication to check liver and kidney function.
- Never. Human painkillers are toxic to cats — paracetamol can be fatal in small doses. Only use medication prescribed by your vet.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the signs of arthritis in cats?
- Reduced jumping, stiffness after rest, reluctance to use stairs, sleeping more, overgrooming painful joints, matted coat from poor grooming, irritability when handled and toileting outside the tray because the litter box is hard to enter.
- How is arthritis diagnosed in cats?
- Your vet examines joints for pain and reduced mobility. X-rays confirm degenerative joint changes. Blood tests are usually taken before starting long-term anti-inflammatory medication to check liver and kidney function.
- Can I give my arthritic cat ibuprofen or paracetamol?
- Never. Human painkillers are toxic to cats — paracetamol can be fatal in small doses. Only use medication prescribed by your vet.