Quick answer: The most common signs of arthritis in cats are subtle: hesitating to jump or jumping lower, stiffness after rest, trouble on stairs, a messy coat, overgrown claws and accidents outside the litter box. Limping is less common. See your vet for diagnosis and pain relief, and never give human painkillers.
When an older cat stops jumping onto the bed or spends more time napping, it is easy to put it down to age. Very often, though, the real cause is joint pain. Arthritis in cats is common, under-recognized and treatable, and the signs are much quieter than the limping you might expect. This guide explains the signs of arthritis in cats, why cats hide joint pain so well, and practical changes at home that can make a real difference.
How common is arthritis in cats?
Much more common than most owners realize. VCA Animal Hospitals states that about 90% of cats over 10 years old have osteoarthritis (OA) in at least one joint. Cornell’s Feline Health Center describes research in which X-rays showed evidence of degenerative joint disease (DJD) in 90 percent of cats over age 12, and notes that young cats are not immune either.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) points out that cats are small, agile and very good at hiding pain, which makes arthritis hard to recognize, even for experienced veterinarians. That is why your observations at home matter so much.
Signs of arthritis in cats
Limping is not the main clue. In a study of 28 cats with osteoarthritis described by the FDA, fewer than half limped, but almost three-quarters didn’t want to jump and two-thirds jumped a shorter distance. Look instead for changes in how your cat moves and behaves:
Changes in movement
- Reluctance or hesitation before jumping up or down, or jumping to lower places than before
- Stiff walking, especially after resting
- Difficulty or slowness on stairs
- Reluctance to play
- Reluctance to stand up and stretch on a scratching post (listed by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons)
Changes in grooming and litter habits
- A scruffy, matted or greasy coat, especially along the back and hips, because grooming has become uncomfortable
- Overgrown claws, since VCA notes that arthritic cats may be reluctant to sharpen their claws
- Urinating or defecating outside the litter box, often because stepping over a high side hurts
- Constipation, which Cornell notes can happen when a cat can’t position itself comfortably
Changes in mood and behavior
- Hiding more or being less interactive
- Irritability or unexpected aggression when touched in certain places
- Sleeping more and seeking out warm, comfortable spots
- Reduced appetite or weight loss
None of these signs is proof of arthritis on its own, and several can point to other illnesses. Any lasting change in your cat’s behavior deserves a vet visit.
| What you might see | What it can mean | What to try at home (with your vet’s guidance) |
|---|---|---|
| Stops jumping onto bed or sofa | Pain pushing off with hind legs or landing | Add a step, stool or ramp |
| Accidents near the litter box | Stepping over a high side hurts | Use a box with a low entry |
| Messy coat on back and hips | Twisting to groom is uncomfortable | Gentle brushing sessions |
| Thick, overgrown claws | Scratching less | Check and trim nails more often |
| More hiding, grumpy when handled | Chronic pain | Vet exam; handle sore areas gently |
What causes arthritis in cats?
There is no single cause. VCA lists body conformation, excess weight and obesity, abnormal joint development such as hip or elbow dysplasia, previous injuries and orthopedic surgery among the factors that contribute. According to Cornell, Maine Coons are more prone to hip dysplasia because of their stocky build. The joints most often affected include the hips, knees, ankles (tarsus) and elbows, and the FDA notes that arthritis in the spine is common too.
How vets diagnose arthritis
Your vet will combine your history with a physical exam, feeling joints for pain, swelling and reduced range of motion, and may take X-rays. The FDA notes that X-ray changes do not always match how painful a cat is, which is one more reason to describe what you see at home. Some practices use a questionnaire about your cat’s mobility and behavior. Short videos of your cat jumping, climbing stairs or using the litter box can be very helpful.
Treatment options
Arthritis cannot be cured, but VCA explains that it can be managed, and that the best results come from combining several approaches. Depending on your cat, your veterinarian may discuss:
- Weight management, because extra weight adds stress to sore joints.
- Prescription pain relief. Options described by VCA and ACVS include certain veterinary anti-inflammatory drugs and frunevetmab (Solensia), a monthly injection that targets nerve growth factor, a protein involved in arthritis pain.
- Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin. ACVS says these are usually well tolerated but may or may not help, so ask your vet.
- Physical rehabilitation, such as therapeutic exercise or massage.
Never give your cat human pain relievers. VCA warns that cats are highly sensitive to aspirin and acetaminophen, and that a single acetaminophen tablet can be fatal to an adult cat.
How to make your home arthritis-friendly
Environmental changes are one of the easiest, most effective things you can do. VCA, ACVS and the FDA all recommend versions of the following:
Soft, padded bedding in warm spots
Arthritic cats appreciate cushioned beds that don’t require a big jump. Put them where your cat already likes to rest, away from drafts. A thick fleece layer such as our Teddy Fleece Cat Pad turns a chair seat, a low shelf or the floor beside a radiator into a comfortable resting spot. Cats Protection also recommends plenty of cosy, well-padded beds for arthritic cats in cold weather, and the AVMA notes that cold weather may worsen arthritis.
Steps and ramps
Help your cat reach favorite high places, like your bed, the sofa or a window perch, with sturdy steps or a ramp. Keep the step heights small and the surfaces non-slip.
Easier litter boxes
Choose a box with at least one low side, put one on every floor of the house, and keep it where your cat doesn’t have to climb stairs to reach it.
Raised food and water bowls
VCA suggests raising dishes to elbow height so your cat doesn’t have to crouch.
Non-slip floors
Rugs or runners on hard floors help unsteady cats feel secure.
Easy scratching and nail care
Scratching helps cats stretch, but arthritic cats may avoid tall, wobbly posts. A sturdy scratching surface that doesn’t move when your cat leans on it is more inviting. Our Cat Side Table with Scratcher is a stable piece of furniture with a built-in scratch surface and a top your cat can lounge on; for a stiff senior, put a step beside it so they don’t have to jump. If your cat is scratching less, check their nails every couple of weeks using our nail-trimming guide.
Gentle play
Short, low-impact play sessions keep muscles strong without straining joints. Drag a wand toy along the floor instead of encouraging big leaps. For more ideas, see our indoor cat enrichment ideas.
When to see the vet
Book an appointment if your cat stops jumping, has litter box accidents, changes grooming habits, hides more, or seems grumpy when touched. Go sooner if your cat suddenly can’t bear weight on a leg, cries when moving or stops eating. With the right combination of treatment and home changes, VCA notes that cats with arthritis can live a normal lifespan.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of arthritis in cats?
Early signs are usually behavioral: hesitating before jumping, jumping to lower surfaces, stiffness after naps, less play and changes in grooming. Limping is less common.
At what age do cats get arthritis?
Risk rises with age. VCA reports that about 90% of cats over 10 years old have osteoarthritis in at least one joint, but younger cats can be affected too, especially after injuries or if they are overweight.
Can I give my cat ibuprofen or Tylenol for arthritis?
No. Cats are highly sensitive to human pain relievers, and VCA warns that a single acetaminophen tablet can be fatal to an adult cat. Ask your vet about cat-safe options.
Is arthritis in cats painful?
Yes. Arthritis causes chronic joint pain, even if your cat hides it. Treatment and home changes can greatly improve comfort.
Does cold weather make cat arthritis worse?
The AVMA notes that cold weather may worsen some conditions such as arthritis. Warm, padded beds away from drafts can help.
How can I help my arthritic cat at home?
Provide soft bedding, steps or ramps to favorite spots, a low-entry litter box, raised bowls, non-slip rugs and gentle daily play.
Keep reading
Sources
- VCA – Arthritis in cats
- VCA – Degenerative joint disease in cats
- ACVS – Osteoarthritis in cats
- Cornell Feline Health Center – Is your cat slowing down?
- FDA – Osteoarthritis in cats: more common than you think
- AVMA – Cold weather animal safety
- Cats Protection – Cats and cold weather
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your cat’s health, contact your veterinarian.
