Pet Health Osteoarthritis in cats

By Jaime Smoot Speed

Cats are incredible creatures, both in personality and from a medical perspective. Cats are so very different from their 4-legged domesticated counterparts (dogs), yet research on these amazing animals has truly been lacking until recently. Luckily, some animal pharmaceutical companies are focusing more on felines and their common health issues. One example of this new research was led by Zoetis. They recently launched a new product that targets osteoarthritis in cats. Osteoarthritis describes a condition where the tissues in the joints wear down and can cause significant discomfort. For cats over the age of 12 years, research has shown that 90% of feline patients have radiographic (xray) evidence of osteoarthritis. Zoetis developed a product, Solensia, an antibody injection given by your veterinarian that lasts 30 days, that can significantly increase comfort in a feline’s senior years. How can you know if your cat is experiencing discomfort from osteoarthritis? Well ask yourself these questions: Does your cat show any hesitation or difficulty going up or down stairs? Do they show any hesitation or difficulty in jumping up on an object or down off an object? Do they still play with toys in the same manner as they did last year? Do they seem to be as social as they used to be? Do they seem to hide more, groom less, or have accidents outside the litter box? If you have seen any changes in these areas, speak to your veterinarian about possible causes, as arthritis could be a culprit! Senior cats should also have yearly bloodwork monitored and see their veterinarian every six months to monitor for health changes, particularly with teeth, muscle condition, body weight, and heart health. If you have room in your heart and your home, consider adopting a senior cat. These beautiful creatures need love and support just as much as dogs! Visit your local shelter or cat adoption center to give these special creatures the attention and love they deserve.

Dr. Jaime Smoot Speed is from West Virginia and went to the University of Georgia for Veterinary School. She co-owns Clayton Claws & Paws and Clayton Veterinary Hospital in downtown Clayton, Georgia and is so grateful she joined the Rabun County community eight years ago with her human and furry families.