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What is
feline osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis
(also known as degenerative joint disease) is the most common
form of "arthritis" (which means joint
inflammation). It mainly affects the cartilage which is the
slippery tissue over the end of the bone in the joint. In the
healthy cat, this allows the bones to glide over each other,
& acts as a shock absorber. There are no nerves in
cartliage, so normal joint movement is painful. When arthritis
develops this slippery layer breaks down & wears away.
There are however nerves in the bones & when the
bones of the joints then rub together this leads to
pain, swelling, & loss of motion. Eventually the
bone may lose it's shape. Bony spurs (osteophytes) &
thickening of the bone may result. Pieces of bone &
cartilage may break off causing more pain & inflammation.
What
causes it? Injury
& trauma to the joint, wear & tear, congenital joint
problem, recurrent injury to the joint & obesity (which
causes an excessive load on the joints).
What are
the symptoms? Some
symptoms of feline osteoarthritis include...
These
symptoms may be exacerbated in during cold or wet weather
conditions.
How is it
diagnosed?
Your vet will
do a physical exam of your cat & ask about it's history.
Radiographic x-rays, ultrasounds & or examination of the
joint fluid may be performed.
Who's
affected by osteoarthritis?
It is most
commonly seen in overweight or older felines. How
is it treated? Early
diagnosis of osteoarthritis important in helping minimise pain
& further damage to the affected joint(s). If
the cat is overweight, careful weight loss & increased
exercise will be necessary. Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed. Reducing
inflammation in the joint can relieve pain & increase
mobility. Glucosamine
and Chondroitin: Glucosamine is a
major component of cartilage. Chondroitin
enhances the formation of cartilage and inhibits enzymes
in the joint, which tend to break down cartilage. Surgery:
Arthrodesis is sometimes recommended. This involves fusion of
the joint surfaces. Reconstructive procedures may be performed
if the cause of the osteoarthritis is caused by anatomic
defects in the joint(s). Providing
warmth to the affected area. This may include the use of a
heating pad where your cat sleeps. It's important to ensure
your cat's bedding is in a warm & draft free spot. Place
litter trays & food bowls in an easily accessible area.
References: Pet
Education
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a
veterinarian & should not be considered a replacement for a
veterinarian visit. The articles are provided for
informative purposes only.
Always seek
immediate veterinary advice for any problems (health or
behavioral) in your pets.
While great
care has been made in the creation of these articles, we
cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages.
If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical
advice. |
