II. Osteoarthritis pain in cats

Treatment and prevention

Osteoarthritis is a painful and life-changing disease – and unfortunately not uncommon among our beloved cats.

Did you miss Part 1 ? There we explain how to detect osteoarthritis in cats early and what the typical symptoms are.

As animal physiotherapists, we can give cat owners valuable tips on how to promote your cat's health – from a balanced diet and regular exercise to avoiding obesity.

Regular veterinary check-ups and early physiotherapy measures help to identify problems early and treat them specifically.

Treatment options for osteoarthritis

Even though osteoarthritis cannot be cured, there are many ways to relieve pain and significantly improve quality of life:

Medicinal support

Painkillers and anti-inflammatories can effectively relieve symptoms – however, they should only be administered under veterinary supervision, as not every medication is suitable for cats.

Diet and nutritional supplements

Excess weight puts additional strain on the joints. A targeted weight-loss diet can therefore be very helpful. Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin can also support joint function.

Physiotherapy & Exercise

Individually tailored exercises strengthen muscles, promote mobility, and can reduce pain. Gentle massages and heat treatments often have an additional relaxing effect. During regular physiotherapy visits, we show owners how to safely perform some of these exercises at home.

Environmental adaptations

An arthrosis-friendly home makes a huge contribution to well-being: ramps or small stairs help your cat reach favorite spots, and soft, warm lying surfaces protect the joints.

As physiotherapists, it's also our job to provide our patients with optimal recommendations for adapting to their environment. We'd be happy to advise you.

How we prevent osteoarthritis in our cats

The best way to prevent osteoarthritis is to lead a healthy lifestyle – and as a cat owner, you can actively help:

• Healthy nutrition & weight control - A balanced diet and a normal body weight relieve the strain on the joints and significantly reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.

• Regular exercise - Playful exercise promotes joint health, keeps your cat mobile and strengthens muscles.

• Preventive care at the vet - Regular check-ups help to detect the first signs of joint disease early on – the earlier treatment is started, the better the progression can be influenced.

Close cooperation between veterinarian, therapist and owner is the key to enabling affected cats to live as pain-free, active and happy a life as possible.

Would you like to learn more about physiotherapy support for osteoarthritis? Contact us – we'd be happy to provide you with personalized advice.