Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Feline Arthritis Management

Feline arthritis is vastly under-diagnosed and under-treated, causing chronic pain in millions of cats, with 2026 bringing new treatment options.

Key Facts

Over 90% of cats over 10 years show radiographic evidence of arthritis
Clinical signs are subtle - reduced jumping, grooming changes, and social withdrawal
Meloxicam long-term is the most evidence-based NSAID for feline arthritis management
Frunevetmab (Solensia), a monoclonal antibody targeting nerve growth factor, was approved in 2022
Environmental modifications including ramps and low-sided litter trays significantly improve welfare

Welfare Considerations

Feline arthritis pain is chronic, pervasive, and undertreated. New treatments and owner education are transforming recognition and management of this hidden welfare problem.

What You Can Do

Consult your vet if your cat shows reduced jumping or activity changes
Consider Solensia for cats with arthritis not responding to NSAIDs
Provide environmental modifications including ramps and easily accessible litter trays