04/09/2025
Arthritis in cats can be subtle, but here are some common signs to watch for: 🐾 Slower Movements – Your cat may be less active, reluctant to jump, or have trouble getting up after resting. 🐾 Limping or Stiffness – You might notice stiffness, especially after naps or long periods of lying down. 🐾 Difficulty Jumping or Climbing – Struggling to jump onto furniture, climbing stairs, or hesitating before leaping could be a sign of joint pain. 🐾 Changes in Grooming Habits – Cats with arthritis may groom less, leading to a dull or matted coat, or they may excessively lick sore joints. 🐾 Litter Box Issues – If your cat starts avoiding the litter box, it could be because it’s painful to step in and out. 🐾 Irritability or Behavioral Changes – Arthritis pain can make cats grumpy, less social, or more withdrawn. 🐾 Muscle Loss – Reduced activity can lead to muscle loss, particularly in the back legs. 🐾 Increased Sleeping – While cats already love to nap, an arthritic cat may sleep even more than usual to avoid movement. If you notice any of these signs, a vet visit is a good idea! Arthritis can often be managed with treatment to keep your cat comfortable. 🐱💙