Cat Arthritis: The Subtle Signs Owners Miss

Here's something that surprises most cat owners: arthritis is extremely common in cats, yet it's hugely under-recognised. Studies suggest it becomes more common with age and affects a large share of older cats. So why do so few owners realise their cat has it?

The answer is that cats are masters at hiding pain. A dog with sore joints might limp or whine; a cat just quietly stops doing the things that hurt. Those changes are so gradual, and so easily mistaken for "just getting older," that they slip past us. Learning to read the subtle signs is the key to keeping an arthritic cat comfortable.

Why cats hide it so well

In the wild, showing weakness is dangerous, and that instinct runs deep. A cat in pain doesn't advertise it — it adapts. It stops jumping onto the high shelf, picks a lower perch, grooms a bit less, and sleeps a little more. Each change on its own looks unremarkable. Together, they tell a story.

The subtle signs to watch for

Because cats rarely limp, arthritis usually shows up as changes in behaviour and movement:

• Hesitating before jumping up or down, or no longer making jumps they used to do easily.
• Choosing lower spots — sleeping on the floor or a chair instead of the windowsill or top of the wardrobe.
• Taking the stairs differently — one at a time, or avoiding them.
• A change in grooming — a greasy, matted or unkempt coat, especially over the lower back and hips, because twisting to reach those areas hurts.
• Toileting changes — struggling to climb into a high-sided litter tray, or accidents nearby because getting in is uncomfortable.
• Less play and activity, or sleeping more than usual.
• A change in temperament — becoming withdrawn, or grumpy and reactive when stroked or picked up, particularly around the back end.
• Stiffness after rest, moving gingerly when they first get up.

Which cats are at risk?

Age is the biggest factor — the older the cat, the higher the likelihood. Overweight cats carry more strain through their joints, and previous injuries or certain breed predispositions can play a part too. But the headline message is simply this: if your cat is middle-aged or older, arthritis is likely, and worth looking for.

How to help your cat

See your vet. This matters especially for cats, because diagnosis can be tricky and — importantly — cats cannot safely take many of the painkillers used for dogs or people. Never give your cat human or canine pain medication. Your vet can confirm arthritis, rule out other issues, and prescribe safe, cat-appropriate options.

Adapt the home. This is where you can make an immediate difference. Provide steps or ramps to favourite perches, a litter tray with at least one low side, soft warm bedding in easy-to-reach places, and food and water at an easy height. Warmth is genuinely soothing for stiff joints.

Keep them at a healthy weight. Reducing excess weight is one of the most effective ways to ease joint strain and improve comfort.

Help with grooming. Gently brush the areas your cat can no longer reach, to keep the coat healthy and comfortable.

Support the joints nutritionally. As part of a vet-guided plan, joint-supporting nutrition — including marine omega-3s and chondroitin — is commonly used to help maintain comfortable mobility in cats as they age.

When to call the vet

Book a visit if you notice your cat jumping less, grooming less, becoming withdrawn or irritable, or struggling with the litter tray — particularly in a cat over six. These quiet changes are exactly the ones worth acting on early.

The bottom line

Feline arthritis is common, painful and easy to miss, precisely because cats are so good at hiding it. Watch for the subtle signs — fewer jumps, lower perches, a neglected coat, a shorter temper — and act on them. A vet check, a few changes around the home, healthy weight, and good joint-supporting nutrition can make a real difference to how comfortable your cat feels every day.

This article is general information and isn't a substitute for veterinary advice. Cats need cat-specific pain management — please see your vet before giving any medication or supplement.