Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease)
Detailed information about Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease)
Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease)
Species: Cat
Breeds Affected: All breeds (very common in senior cats)
Overview
A chronic degeneration of the joints marked by cartilage loss and bony changes, leading to pain and decreased mobility. It is extremely common in cats over 12 years of age.
Symptoms
- Subtle signs include reduced jumping
- stiffness when rising
- decreased grooming
- irritability when touched
- and a generally weaker gait.
Treatments
Management is multimodal. Weight management, environmental modifications (eg, soft bedding, ramps, low-sided litter boxes), and gentle exercise are important. Pain control is typically achieved using NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose, and frunevetmab (Solensia®) is now available as a monthly injection for osteoarthritis pain in cats. Supplements may also be used.
Medications
NSAIDs (eg, meloxicam, robenacoxib) under close veterinary supervision; frunevetmab (Solensia®) as a monthly monoclonal antibody injection; gabapentin for neuropathic pain; joint supplements (eg, glucosamine/chondroitin, fish oil); in some cases, Adequan® injections.
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