Pet health care for cats with osteoarthritis

Tuesday, 31 August 2010 21:25

Feline friends are known for hiding their emotions and keeping themselves to themselves - but it may be that more pet insurance policyholders' moggies are suffering in silence than was previously estimated.

According to pet health care practitioner Dr Francine Rattner, writing for the Capital, it is thought that some 90 per cent of cats over the age of 12 are feeling the strain of osteoarthritis.

Owners who notice that their kitties are suddenly less active and agile than usual - perhaps preferring to lie on the floor rather than jump up onto previously beloved hidey-holes - might try making some changes to their pet's lifestyle, such as changing its diet.

Excess weight puts more strain on joints, exacerbating pain caused by osteoarthritis, so reducing this can be the first step, Dr Rattner advised.

"I would add nutritional supplements known to reduce inflammation and provide support to damaged cartilage ... glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids," she added.

However, before carrying out any of these changes, it is vital owners check with their veterinarian to ensure none of them oppose a risk to the feline's health.

Animal Friends are a specialist pet insurance company providing dog insurance and cat insurance to British pet owners since 1999 and we now offer horse insurance too.

Posted by Katherine