Cat Arthritis Recognition and Management

Feline arthritis is severely underdiagnosed because cats hide pain — modern recognition tools and treatments now allow effective management of this widespread chronic condition.

Key Facts

Arthritis affects over 90% of cats over 12 years old based on radiographic evidence, yet is diagnosed in only a small fraction of affected cats.
Cats in pain do not vocalise as dogs do — instead they become less active, groom less, jump less, and withdraw socially.
The Feline Grimace Scale (FGS) allows assessment of acute pain in cats from facial expressions — a validated tool for detecting hidden pain.
Meloxicam long-term use in cats requires careful dosing and renal monitoring but is safe and effective in appropriate patients.
Frunevetmab (Solensia), a monoclonal antibody targeting nerve growth factor, offers monthly injection pain control for arthritic cats.

Welfare Considerations

Feline arthritis is a silent epidemic of chronic pain in the companion cat population. The vast majority of old cats with arthritis — causing them daily pain and mobility restriction — are never diagnosed or treated because owners and vets do not recognise the subtle behavioural signs. A cat that jumps less, uses lower furniture, grooms only its front quarters, and sleeps more is communicating pain through behaviour. Systematic pain assessment and modern treatment options now make arthritis management effective, transforming the quality of life of affected cats.

What You Can Do

Watch for subtle signs of feline arthritis: reduced jumping, hesitation at stairs, less grooming of back and tail.
Ask your vet about pain scoring assessment and treatment options including meloxicam and frunevetmab.
Modify your home for arthritic cats: ramps, lower litter box sides, lower food bowls, and warm comfortable beds.
Schedule 6-monthly veterinary checks for cats over 10 to screen proactively for pain conditions.