Osteoarthritis
in Your Senior Cat

 

As our beloved kitties age, they can develop osteoarthritis (OA)—a common condition that affects their joints and comfort. Studies show that the majority of older cats may be affected by OA, even if they don’t show obvious signs of pain. Cats rarely show signs like limping or whining. Instead, their signs are more gradual and subtle.

Here are some common clinical signs to look out for:

  • Reluctance to jump or climb
  • Decreased grooming (or matted fur)
  • Increased hiding or irritability; sometimes showing aggression
  • Improper use of the litter tray
  • Less interest in play or interaction with the family

Making a few small changes around your home can make a big difference for an arthritic cat:
 

  • Add ramps or steps to help them reach favourite perches or beds.
  • Use soft, padded bedding in easily accessible areas.
  • Keep food and water bowls on the floor, not on counters or stairs.
  • Use large, low-sided litter boxes that are easy to step into.
  • Provide enrichment like toys, window views, and gentle play to keep them mentally stimulated.

Extra weight cat put more strain on your cat’s joints and can increase the severity of arthritis symptoms. To help your cat maintain a healthy weight:

  • Feed portion-controlled meals rather than leaving food out all day.
  • Use puzzle feeders or treat balls to make mealtime more interactive.
  • Offer low-calorie treats and avoid feeding any table scraps.
  • Feed cats separately in multi-pet households to prevent overeating.

Encouraging exercise is still very important for arthritic cats. Here are some gentle activities that can be tried:

  • Short play sessions with feather wands or laser toys.
  • Encouraging movement with safe supervised climbing or stretching.
  • Working with a vet or pet rehab specialist to find the right kind of low-impact exercise.

Some special diets and supplements, especially those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may help support joint comfort over time. For further advice regarding a diet that could help your cat feel more mobile and active please come through to chat to anyone of our vets or receptionists.

If your older cat seems less active or not quite themselves, arthritis could be the cause. A few thoughtful changes in their environment and routine can go a long way in helping them stay happy, comfortable, and connected to the family.

Noticing changes in your cat’s behaviour or movement? Our veterinary team can
HELP you find the best ways to keep them comfortable and mobile in their golden years.

 

Book recommendation

We’ll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida comes highly recommended by Dr. Trish. This gentle, heartwarming manga follows a special clinic where patients are paired with cats to help heal emotional wounds. Each chapter offers a soothing story of comfort, connection, and the quiet magic of feline companionship.

Adopt
A Cat Month (June)

June is Adopt A Cat Month - the perfect time to open your home and heart to a cat in need. Shelters and rescue organisations across the country are filled with cats of all ages waiting for a second chance. By adopting, you’re not just gaining a companion - you’re saving a life. 

Click on the images below to see some of the beautiful cats currently available for adoption through
Tears, Cape SPCA and Rescue is Life.

The Winter Warmers
We're loving this month

Winter is here and so is the purrfect cozy gear! Cat caves, comfy beds, and warm blankets are now in stock to keep your feline friend snug all season long — shop now and treat your kitty to the warmth they deserve!

Renovation 
Updates

If you've visited our practice, read our newsletters, or followed us on social media, you may already know that renovations are underway. But did you know it all started with the cats in mind? We're expanding our cat-friendly facilities with a dedicated hospital ward and cat-specific consulting rooms to ensure a more comfortable and stress-free experience for our feline patients.

Dog lovers, don’t worry - we haven’t forgotten you! We're also upgrading your spaces with new consulting rooms that open onto the garden and a larger, more advanced hospital ward.

We're thrilled with the progress and can't wait to share our new and improved spaces with you in the coming months.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time. If your pet is sensitive to noise, please talk to us about options to reduce stress -  including house calls for existing clients or scheduling visits during quieter periods.