Feline OA

Feline osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in cats in which cartilage wears away, causing chronic musculoskeletal pain that is common in older cats yet frequently overlooked.

Radiographic evidence of the disease is found in a large majority of senior cats, most often in the hips, elbows, knees and spine. Because cats rarely limp, the signs are behavioral: hesitating or refusing to jump, taking stairs one at a time, a scruffy coat from reduced grooming, overgrown claws, sleeping in easier-to-reach spots and reduced play. Obesity and previous injury increase risk.

Veterinarians combine owner questionnaires that score mobility at home, an orthopedic examination and radiographs to reach a diagnosis. Care includes weight control, ramps and low-sided litter boxes, joint supplements and prescription pain medication formulated for cats. A small controlled crossover study of cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid in cats with osteoarthritis reported reduced pain scores, but feline evidence remains very limited and no veterinary approval exists.