Veterinarian Explains: Effective Supplements and How to Choose Them for Feline Arthritis

Just like humans, cats can develop arthritis as they age. While painkillers are used for arthritis, they can have side effects or be difficult to administer, leading to the use of supplements.

This article will explain supplements for arthritis.

What is Feline Arthritis? Understanding Symptoms and Causes

How Arthritis Affects Cats

About 70% of senior cats over 12 years old suffer from arthritis, but symptoms can appear as early as one year of age. Cats with arthritis tend to be reluctant to move due to pain, leading to obesity from excess calories. Obesity further strains the joints, intensifying the pain. This creates a vicious cycle of decreased movement and increased obesity.

Arthritis can lead to obesity, and obesity, in turn, can contribute to various diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

Cases Caused by Aging, Obesity, or Injury

Among types of arthritis, osteoarthritis is commonly seen in older and obese cats. Prolonged stress on the joints can cause them to deform and become painful.

Even young cats can develop arthritis; injuries such as joint dislocation or fractures make them more prone to the condition.

Signs to Look Out for Early Detection

Since arthritis is common in older cats, a decrease in activity is often attributed to aging. However, it can actually be due to arthritic pain making them reluctant to move. With proper diagnosis and treatment, cats can sometimes regain their previous active lifestyle.

Key symptoms of arthritis include reluctance to move, not jumping, and hesitation when going up or down. A noticeable sign is also when they stop scratching their claws. If you observe these symptoms, consult a veterinarian.

Supplement Ingredients Expected to Be Effective for Feline Arthritis

Supplements may be used when medicines are difficult to administer or for various purposes like improving constitution. However, since supplements are not classified as pharmaceuticals under the "Act on Securing Quality, Efficacy and Safety of Products Including Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices" (also known as the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act), it is not permitted to claim effects such as "effective for XX." Therefore, the descriptions of supplement effects in this article are somewhat vague.

The Role of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a viscous substance found in cartilage, acting as a lubricant.

Glucosamine is an amino acid that makes up cartilage, and chondroitin is produced from glucosamine.

It is believed that a decrease in glucosamine and chondroitin can lead to a loss of joint cushioning and resulting joint pain.

The Action of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, are found in fish, vegetable oils, and nuts. Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to have anti-inflammatory effects. They are thought to suppress substances that induce inflammation and help resolve existing inflammation to repair tissues. They are also believed to have neuroprotective properties.

Joint Support Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen

Hyaluronic acid is a component of cartilage, synthesized from the glucosamine mentioned earlier. In human arthritis treatment, hyaluronic acid is injected into the joints. It acts to protect and repair joints.

Cartilage, which acts as a joint cushion, has cells bound together by collagen. Cartilage decreases with age, leading to joint pain. Collagen is believed to support the regeneration of cartilage cells.

Tips for Choosing and Administering Supplements

The Importance of Choosing Veterinarian-Recommended Products

Supplements are offered by various companies, which can make it difficult to choose. Some companies that develop supplements also handle animal pharmaceuticals or animal products. Supplements developed by such companies often have efficacy data and are evaluated by veterinarians. Products carried by veterinary hospitals can be purchased with more confidence because these companies explain the supplement's actions to veterinarians. While you can buy them online, it is better to choose products recommended by your regular veterinarian.

Arthritis supplements may contain ingredients like fish oil or crustaceans, which can sometimes cause allergic reactions. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian when choosing.

Precautions for Dosage and Timing of Administration

Due to the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act, supplements cannot specify administration times, dosage (e.g., "X pills per dose"), or methods of consumption. Therefore, it's fine to administer supplements at any time, as long as the daily recommended amount is adhered to. If the dosage is large, divide it into two or three administrations.

More Than Just Supplements! Daily Care You Can Provide

Importance of Moderate Exercise and Weight Management

Arthritis is often associated with obesity, as joints struggle to support excess weight, leading to pain. Furthermore, a vicious cycle can occur where reduced movement causes further weight gain. While weight control through exercise can be challenging for cats, a lack of moderate exercise can lead to stress and increased appetite. If there is no pain from arthritis, allow your cat to release stress through play. Also, control their food intake and adjust it to achieve a healthy weight.

Creating a Joint-Friendly Environment

Cats are animals that engage in vertical movement, but this can put a strain on their joints. Therefore, cats with arthritis may avoid jumping or hesitate before doing so. Minimize steps and install ramps or stairs to reduce the burden on their joints. Additionally, slippery flooring can stress joints, so use mats to make surfaces less slippery.

Regular Health Check-ups for Early Detection of Abnormalities

It can be difficult to notice arthritis in older cats as their movements become slower. For senior cats aged 7 and above, annual health check-ups at least twice a year are recommended. Senior health check-up menus may include X-rays of the limb joints, which are common sites for arthritis. Early detection can quickly alleviate a cat's discomfort and improve their quality of life. Regular health check-ups allow for the early detection of various diseases.

What to Do if Supplements Do Not Improve the Condition

When to Consult a Veterinarian

Supplements offer the advantage of being easy to start due to their lack of side effects. However, supplements cannot cure conditions, so it's not advisable to switch to another supplement if symptoms don't improve. Other underlying diseases may be present besides arthritis. If you don't see results from supplements, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Veterinary hospitals offer appropriate treatment tailored to your cat's condition and your preferences. Once treatment has stabilized, it may be possible to maintain the condition with supplements.

Utilizing Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Some people undergo rehabilitation at orthopedic clinics. Rehabilitation can also be applicable to animals. While you can find information online, improper application without expert knowledge can worsen the condition. Furthermore, rehabilitation requires specialized knowledge, so it is recommended to visit a veterinary hospital that offers rehabilitation services.

Summary

While supplements are easy to start, there's also a risk of being swayed by advertisements. Since they are not inexpensive purchases, it's recommended to consider carefully before buying. Some supplements are also available at veterinary hospitals, so it would be wise to consult with your veterinarian before purchasing.