Our nimble cats can start to slow down as they get older, and all that jumping and leaping from earlier years can cause damage to their joints.
Our nimble cats can start to slow down as they get older, and all that jumping and leaping from earlier years can cause damage to their joints.
Considering that cats have an average lifespan of 12-18 years, it’s little wonder that their hips and other joints can face wear and tear. Many mature cats can have trouble with the cartilage in their joints, so it’s important to be aware of some of the ways you can help promote good joint health for your cat throughout their life to help prevent and manage symptoms of arthritis.
How to improve your cat’s joint health
Feed them a super-premium diet for joint health
Your cat’s diet is a great place to lay the foundations to support their joint health, especially if you start from an early age. Use our Cat Food Finder Tool to ensure that your cat is eating a food that is formulated to keep a cat of their age, weight and lifestyle strong and healthy.
Look for cat food that contains ingredients with high levels of omega-3, chondroitin, and glucosamine. These help to reduce inflammation and help with overall joint and cartilage health. The inclusion of antioxidant-rich ingredients also supports joint cartilage.
Give them joint supplements
You can further support your cat’s joint health with a supplement, which can be fed to them in conjunction with a balanced diet. A variety of joint supplements for cats are available to support their cartilage and joints.
Not sure what food or supplement is best for your cat? Speak with your local Greencross Vets for their expert recommendation.
Help them maintain a healthy weight
Food can assist with joint health, however it’s also important your cat is within a healthy weight range. If your cat carries too much weight, this will put significant strain on their joints and can exacerbate issues.
Be sure that you’re following the feeding guide on the packet and adjusting for your cat’s activity levels to keep your cat in peak physical condition.
Ask your vet for a tailored management program
If you notice that your cat is stiff and sore, particularly on cold days, or is showing other symptoms of arthritis then speak with your local Greencross Vets about a treatment plan.
Talk to your local Petbarn team members to find out more about the range of cat foods and supplements that support joint health for your cat