Why Isn’t My Cat Jumping Anymore? Signs of Arthritis in Cats

Introduction

Have you noticed your cat jumping less? As pet owners watch their cats grow into their senior years, what once was a kitten full of energy now hesitates. This jumping reduction could signal a deeper issue, such as arthritis, in cats. Although this is a common condition in cats, it can significantly impact their mobility and quality of life, causing considerable pain. Read on to learn how to tell if a cat has arthritis, along with steps in reaching a diagnosis and treatment.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Arthritis is a common condition, often caused by repeated ‘wear and tear’ of joint cartilage.
• Risk factors include cats over 6 years old, overweight cats, a previous joint injury or condition (such as hip dysplasia), and genetically predisposed breeds.
• Typical signs include cats jumping less, hesitancy on rising and stiffness.
• Early detection is key, as intervention helps in treating arthritis in cats.

What is Arthritis in Cats?

‘Arthritis’ means inflammation of a joint. The ancient Greek roots ‘arth’ means joint and ‘itis’ means inflammation. The most common type is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease in which the normal cartilage that supports the joints wears away, causing sore bone-on-bone rubbing. This is a progressive disease, meaning that it worsens over time, with 90% of cats aged more than 12 years old affected. Arthritis can impact any joint, but the elbows, shoulders, hips and spine are most frequently affected. Overweight cats load more pressure through these joints, and certain breeds, such as Scottish Folds, are genetically predisposed to the condition. Arthritis in cats often presents very differently compared to humans and even dogs. As we know, cats are very independent. They evolved to hide pain notoriously well from potential predators in the wild. Arthritis symptoms are therefore often generalized behaviour changes, rather than limping.

Why Your Cat May Stop Jumping

Jumping reduction is a red flag in our feline counterparts - as natural explorers, any change in this is a sign for further investigation:

• Joint pain / inflammation: such as arthritis, affected cats become reluctant to move quickly due to the discomfort.
• Muscle weakness or sarcopenia with age: muscles become weaker if the body uses them less or starts breaking them down for fuel, for example, in chronic kidney disease
• Obesity increasing strain on joints: for those felines with more insulation, moving around requires a little more effort
• Prior joint injury or developmental dysplasia: previous injuries can flare up and cause pain. If your kitten had joint changes as they were growing, this can influence their movement as adults.
• Other causes include neurological (nervous system) problems, vestibular (balance) problems and cardiac (heart) disease.

Signs & Symptoms of Arthritis in Cats

Key cat arthritis symptoms can vary between personalities, but include:

Decreased jumping, playing and climbing

Jumping requires joints to move smoothly through a large range of motion, so if your cat is not jumping anymore (or if they’re missing jumps or having to claw their way up the last bit), it could be a sign of arthritis.

Stiffness

Cat stiffness is a common sign of arthritis. Cold or damp weather tends to worsen joint pain in cats due to the relative pressure changes in the environment.

Being slow to rise

Arthritic joints in cats tend to be more painful after a period of inactivity, for example, in the morning or after a good snooze. As your cat moves around, the synovial joint fluid will loosen slightly to help the bones glide, and blood circulation to the joint will help to fuel their exploring demands.

Reduction in grooming

If you notice your cat grooming less than usual, especially around those harder-to-reach areas, such as the back and tail, be suspicious of arthritis. For what they’re worth, these motifs can be a little too sore for a cat with stiff joints.

Behaviour changes

If your cat is in pain from arthritis, they might become short-tempered or withdrawn. Don’t be offended! This is their innate defense mechanism and they can’t understand what is causing their discomfort.

Litter box issues

Is your cat not using the litter box? If your cat has arthritis, they might avoid using the litter box, struggle to enter or have difficulty positioning themselves to toilet.

Swollen or enlarged joints

Fluid build-up can cause swollen joints in cats with arthritis. Over time, the inflammation caused by friction between bones makes their joints appear larger.

How Is Arthritis in Cats Diagnosed?

How do we tell if a cat has arthritis? If you notice any cat arthritis symptoms, the next important step is to book a vet consultation. A veterinarian’s assessment is essential for appropriate diagnosis and pain management. Remember that even gradual or ‘chronic’ changes over time are significant and warrant further investigation. Your vet will ask you to explain your observations in more detail. This could include when the signs started, if they are worsening and if you have noticed any patterns in severity. Your cat’s joints will be checked for mobility (range of motion), swellings, pain and heat. A definitive (a.k.a. certain) diagnosis for arthritis is made through X-rays. Blood testing is also handy to screen for other underlying diseases which cause similar generalized signs. Joint health panels and biomarkers can help to piece together the puzzle.

Management & Treatment Options

There is sadly no ‘cure’ for arthritis in cats, but there are various management options which slow progression of the disease and manage the associated pain.

Environmental changes can make an exceptional difference. Managing your cat’s diet and weight reduces strain on joints. Rugs or anti-slip mats used on flooring help avoid worrisome walking. Litter trays with a low side facilitate easier entry. Invest in some soft bedding or an orthopedic mattress to cushion joints when resting. Adding ramps or steps can help cats reach their favourite lookout spot with minimal pain.

Anti-inflammatory medications are very effective in treating cats with arthritis and typically consist of a daily liquid or tablet. A key vet-tip is to use a cat-friendly treat paste to disguise any medication and reward them afterwards. Remember to never give your cat human medications, as these can be toxic. Other medications include injections under the skin or, in some cases, into the joint. Speak to your vet about further medications to add if your cat remains uncomfortable. Blood and urine testing prior to starting medication and every 3-6 months is good for monitoring and safety.

Joint supplements contain cartilage-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine, green-lipped mussel and essential fatty acids. These are unlikely to reverse any damage and are best started early; reach out to your vet for a recommendation.

Acupuncture and physiotherapy carried out by qualified professionals can help, but are stressful for some individuals!

Prevention & Long-Term Outlook

A proactive approach to arthritis in cats is best. Owners can help to reduce arthritis risk by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding injury, providing good joint support and environmental enrichment. Controlled movement will help to maintain healthy cartilage and joints.

An arthritis diagnosis does not mean that your cat is just becoming old. Work alongside your vet to slow disease progression for a full, pain-free life. You may notice that they jump more with treatment, although perhaps not off the walls as they used to! Discuss any concerns at routine vet and mobility checkups.

When to Call Your Vet Immediately

Be mindful that decreased jumping can be caused by other diseases, and although arthritis is rarely an emergency, if you notice any sudden lameness, collapse, inability to move, appetite loss or signs of other systemic disease, be sure to seek urgent veterinary attention.

FAQs

Conclusion

Managing feline arthritis can feel overwhelming, but small changes can lead to big jumps! Start early and observe your cat moving around at home. If you notice decreased jumping, schedule a mobility check with your vet, as changes in jumping are a key early sign of arthritis in cats. With vet care and environmental modifications, cats can remain comfortable and active. Take some small steps this week, such as adding ramps around your home or lowering your cat’s litter box entry, to make your home arthritis-friendly.

Bio

Dr Grace Mee BVSc MRCVS

Grace graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2022. She works as a small animal vet in London and has published research in the Veterinary Record. She enjoys consulting and operating on dogs, cats, and exotic pets. Beyond clinical practice, she applies her expertise as a veterinary writer and mentors aspiring veterinary students.

Image: Istockphoto