Written by cat parent and Pawfect Cat Care founder Hicham Aouladi and fact-checked using reputable veterinary sources. For educational purposes only — not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
Cat arthritis can be sneaky. A lot of cats don’t limp in an obvious way — they just slowly edit their routine. They jump less. They groom a bit sloppier. They stop doing the “fun” stuff, and start choosing the easiest path through the house.
If you’re thinking, “Maybe I’m imagining it,” you’re not. Most cat parents notice changes first at home — not in the clinic. The good news is: once you know what to look for, you can catch arthritis earlier and make your cat genuinely more comfortable.
In this 2026 guide, we’ll keep it calm and practical: early signs, a simple 7-day home check, high-impact home setup fixes, and a clear overview of treatment options — including where Solensia fits and what questions to ask your vet.
- What “arthritis” means in cats
- Early signs most cat parents miss
- When to call the vet (red flags)
- A 7-day home check (simple tracking)
- How vets diagnose arthritis
- Treatment options (2026 overview)
- Solensia: what it is, what to expect, what to ask
- Home setup: the highest-impact changes
- Weight + muscle: the “quiet superpower”
- FAQ
- Quick checklist
- A calm conclusion
- References + Disclaimer
- Author
1) What “arthritis” means in cats
Arthritis (often called osteoarthritis) is a long-term joint condition where the joint becomes painful and inflamed, and movement gradually feels harder. Over time, joint structures can change — and your cat may compensate by moving differently, which can strain other areas.
In cats, arthritis is common, especially as they get older, but it can also happen after injuries, in cats with past fractures, or in cats whose joints have been stressed over time. The tricky part is how cats communicate pain: many don’t cry, and many don’t limp dramatically. They just start choosing “less work” movements.
Arthritis in cats often looks like “slowing down,” “being picky,” or “being grumpy” — not like a big obvious limp. If your cat’s habits changed gradually, arthritis deserves a real look.
2) Early signs most cat parents miss
When arthritis shows up early, it rarely announces itself. Think of the signs in three buckets: movement, grooming/litter habits, and mood. Most cats show a mix.
2.1) Movement changes
- Jumping “down” becomes hesitant (often before jumping “up” changes).
- Using furniture in steps (chair → couch) instead of one clean jump.
- Less climbing (cat tree unused, windowsills avoided).
- Stiffness after rest (especially after long naps).
- Slower stairs or avoiding stairs entirely.
- Shorter stride, “bunny hopping,” or a different back-leg rhythm.
2.2) Grooming and coat clues
- Greasier or matted coat (pain makes twisting and reaching harder).
- Overgrooming one spot (some cats lick where it hurts).
- Reduced grooming around the back, hips, or tail base.
2.3) Litter box and routine changes
- Missing the box (especially if the box is high-sided).
- Pooping next to the box while still peeing in it (squatting can hurt).
- Hesitation entering or choosing a “closer” spot in the house.
Helpful home setup read (especially for older cats): Senior mobility-friendly setup.
2.4) Mood and “personality” shifts
- Less tolerant of handling (especially touching hips/back or being picked up).
- Grumpier around other pets (pain lowers patience).
- Hiding more or playing less.
- Sleeping in new places (warmer/softer, or avoiding stairs).
If you’re thinking, “Wait… that’s my cat,” take a breath. You didn’t “miss something obvious.” Cats are subtle on purpose. Noticing now is a win.
3) When to call the vet (red flags)
Arthritis is common, but sudden severe symptoms can signal something else. If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent. For a step-by-step “ER now or can it wait?” guide, see: Cat Emergency Triage (ER now or not).
4) A 7-day home check (simple tracking)
Before your vet visit, a one-week “mobility diary” makes things clearer — for you and for your vet. The goal isn’t to become a detective. It’s just to notice patterns you’d otherwise forget by appointment day.
Pick 4–6 items from the list below. You don’t need to track everything. Think: “What changed in my cat recently?”
Hesitation jumping down? Using “step jumps” (chair → couch)? Avoiding high spots?
Stiff after naps? Shorter steps? Slower turns? Looks “tight” in the back legs?
Avoiding stairs? Stopping halfway? Choosing the easiest route through the house?
Mats/greasy areas on the back/hips? Less grooming? Over-licking one spot?
Hesitating to enter? Pooping beside the box? Missing the box more with a high-sided box?
More irritability? Hiding? Doesn’t want hips/back touched? Doesn’t want to be picked up?
Shorter play sessions? Refusing favorite toy? Watches but doesn’t join?
Sleeping on softer/warmer spots? Avoiding cold floors? Choosing a “low effort” bed?
Tip that helps a lot: take 1–2 short videos (10–20 seconds) of walking, stepping up, or jumping. Cats often “act normal” at the clinic — video shows the real story.
5) How vets diagnose arthritis
Diagnosis is usually a mix of what you notice at home, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging. Your vet may check joint range of motion, muscle mass, posture, spinal comfort, and how your cat moves.
5.1) Do cats always need X-rays?
Not always — it depends on age, symptoms, and exam findings. X-rays can show changes consistent with arthritis, but pain can exist even when x-ray changes are subtle. In some cats, vets start with a practical plan: home setup changes + pain management + monitoring the response.
5.2) What else can look like arthritis?
- Dental pain (less play, grumpier, reduced grooming).
- Neurologic disease (wobbliness, weakness, odd gait).
- Injuries (sprains/strains, torn ligaments).
- Urinary pain (box avoidance, behavior change).
“I’m seeing gradual mobility changes at home. Can we evaluate for arthritis and also rule out other causes like dental or neurologic pain? Here are short videos.”
6) Treatment options (2026 overview)
The best arthritis plan is usually multi-layered: pain control + home setup + body condition + gentle movement. One “magic fix” rarely does everything — but the good news is you have more than one lever to pull.
6.1) Home setup (often the fastest win)
Home changes are not “small.” They reduce daily strain — which means your cat doesn’t have to fight pain 50 times a day just to reach a bed, a bowl, or a favorite perch. We’ll cover the high-impact changes in section 8.
6.2) Weight management (if needed)
Extra weight increases joint load. Even a small, steady reduction can improve comfort. If weight is a factor, ask your vet for a target weight and a safe calorie plan (no crash dieting).
Helpful: Recognize & Manage Cat Obesity.
6.3) Pain control medications (vet-guided)
Your vet may discuss options like NSAIDs (in select cats, with monitoring), other pain medications, and newer therapies depending on your cat’s health profile. Never give human pain meds — many are toxic to cats.
6.4) Supplements and supportive options
- Omega-3 fatty acids (ask your vet about dosing and product quality).
- Joint supplements (evidence varies; use as support, not a replacement for pain control).
- Physical therapy / gentle exercises (when guided appropriately).
- Warmth + comfort (pet-safe heated pad, cozy beds, draft-free rest spots).
6.5) Realistic expectations
Arthritis management is usually a “comfort curve,” not a cure. The goal is fewer pain signals, easier movement, and a return to normal behaviors: jumping (or choosing steps), grooming, play, and social time.
7) Solensia: what it is, what to expect, what to ask
Solensia is an injectable treatment used for feline osteoarthritis pain. In simple terms, it targets pain signaling in a more specific way. Many cats receive it as a monthly injection at the vet clinic.
7.1) What many families notice (when it helps)
- More willingness to jump or climb (or less hesitation doing it)
- More grooming and a cleaner coat
- Improved mood (less irritability, more social)
- More play or little “kitten-like” moments returning
Improvement can be gradual. Some cats change within weeks; others need a couple of doses before the difference is obvious. The best measure is behavior at home — the stuff you know your cat used to do.
7.2) What to ask your vet before starting
- Is arthritis the most likely cause of my cat’s behavior changes?
- What specific behaviors should improve if this is working?
- How soon should I expect changes — and when do we reassess if I see none?
- What side effects should I watch for at home?
- Do we need bloodwork first or monitoring during treatment (kidney/liver checks)?
- Can Solensia be combined with other pain control methods if needed?
- What’s the plan if symptoms return before the next dose?
7.3) A calm safety note
Every medication decision is a risk/benefit conversation. What matters is a vet-guided plan, clear home monitoring, and adjusting if your cat’s response isn’t right.
8) Home setup: the highest-impact changes
Home changes are where you can help today. Start with the places your cat uses most: sleeping spots, litter box, food/water, and favorite perches. The goal is “less strain per day.”
8.1) Make jumping optional (ramps/steps)
- Add a small pet stair or sturdy step to the couch/bed.
- Use a stable stool as a “middle step” to a windowsill.
- Lower tall cat trees or add intermediate platforms.
8.2) Add traction (slipping = pain)
- Place runner rugs on slippery floors (especially routes to litter/food).
- Use non-slip mats near jumping points.
8.3) Fix the litter box (this is huge)
- Switch to a low-entry box (or cut a safe low doorway in one side).
- Keep boxes on the same floor (avoid stairs if possible).
- Keep litter boxes easy to access and very clean (no “extra effort” days).
Related: Litter box red flags.
8.4) Comfort stations
- Warm, cushioned bed with easy entry.
- Food and water with minimal bending (some cats prefer a slight raise).
- Quiet rest areas away from high-energy pets/kids.
9) Weight + muscle: the “quiet superpower”
Two cats can have similar joint changes on paper — but the cat with healthier body condition and better muscle support often moves more comfortably. If weight is a factor, aim for safe, steady progress with your vet.
9.1) Gentle movement matters
Arthritis cats still need movement — just the right kind. Short, frequent play sessions (wand toy at floor level), controlled climbing with steps, and encouragement to move around the home can help maintain muscle without overloading joints.
9.2) Food strategy (simple)
- Measure portions consistently.
- Use puzzle feeders if your cat enjoys them (low-stress, gentle movement).
- Discuss wet + dry balance with your vet for your cat’s needs.
10) FAQ
10.1) Can young cats get arthritis?
Yes — especially after injuries, congenital joint issues, or past fractures. It’s more common in older cats, but if a young cat has mobility changes, your vet should rule out injuries and other causes too.
10.2) My cat still jumps sometimes — does that mean it’s not arthritis?
Not necessarily. Many cats push through pain sometimes, especially for favorite spots. Watch the pattern: hesitation, fewer jumps overall, “step jumps,” and mood/grooming changes are more meaningful than one moment.
10.3) Should I give glucosamine/chondroitin?
Some cats may benefit, but evidence varies and product quality matters. Treat supplements as “support,” not the main plan. Ask your vet what’s appropriate and avoid stacking too many products at once (you want to know what’s helping).
10.4) Is arthritis the reason my cat is peeing outside the box?
It can be — but urinary issues can also be urgent. If litter box behavior changes suddenly, talk to your vet promptly.
10.5) What if my cat isn’t eating because of pain?
Pain can reduce appetite, but not eating is also a red flag for many conditions. If your cat is refusing food or water, use a calm action plan and contact your vet if it persists. Helpful: Cat not eating or drinking (48-hour calm plan).
11) Quick checklist (screenshot-friendly)
- ✅ Notice subtle signs: less jumping, stiffness, grooming changes, litter misses.
- ✅ Track for 7 days + take 1–2 short videos of walking/jumping.
- ✅ Book a vet visit for assessment and a plan.
- ✅ Make jumping optional: steps/ramps to bed/couch/perches.
- ✅ Add traction: rugs/runners on slippery routes.
- ✅ Switch to a low-entry litter box.
- ✅ Discuss pain plan options (including Solensia if appropriate).
- ✅ Monitor response: appetite, mood, mobility, grooming, play.
- ✅ Know red flags: sudden inability to walk, severe pain, not eating, urinary distress.
12) A calm conclusion
If your cat is slowing down, please don’t assume it’s “just old age.” Cats deserve comfort — and you’re not being dramatic by asking questions. Arthritis can be subtle, but it is manageable.
The best next step is simple: track what you’re seeing at home, book a vet visit, and go in with a plan — not panic. You’re doing the right thing.
References + Disclaimer
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Osteoarthritis in Cats
- Cats Protection: Arthritis in Cats (owner guide PDF)
- AAHA/AAFP Pain Management Guidelines for Dogs & Cats (PDF)
- Zoetis: Solensia Client Information Sheet (PDF)
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your cat is sick, worsening, or showing urgent symptoms (sudden inability to walk, collapse, severe pain, urinary distress, or not eating), contact a veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately.
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