Older cats commonly suffer from arthritis due to their high levels of activity and mobility, with the most affected joints being the hips and elbows. Cats are able to hide their mobility problems more easily than dogs.

Symptoms of mobility problems and arthritis include reluctance to jump onto furniture and other objects that are off of the ground, decreased energy levels, stiffness when walking, a matted or scruffy coat due to their inability to groom themselves due to pain, and a change in behaviour with them being less tolerant and more withdrawn.
Metacam provides pain relief and more importantly reduces the inflammation and swelling caused by arthritis. It is the most popular medicine used by vets to treat arthritis in cats and is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Metacam for cats is only available in an oral suspension and it is very important you ensure that you buy the Metacam for cats as it is different to Metacam for dogs. It is also available in a honey flavour, to make it more palatable and it can be added to food or given directly.
Joint supplements can also be provided. Cosequin is designed to help maintain the cartilage, ligaments, joint fluid and tendons to slow down the process of arthritis. Cosequin comes in capsules in a palatable chicken flavour, which can be opened so the powder can be sprinkled onto your cat’s food.
Advice should be sought from your vet before giving your pet Cosequin in case it cannot be taken with any other medication your cat is on.
Both Metacam and Cosequin are available from VioVet.
To make your cat more comfortable, create places where they can easily climb and hide, play gentle games with them to keep them active and to prevent their joints from stiffening up, ensure that their food and litter tray is placed so your cat doesn’t have to jump to access them and provide a litter tray with low sides so your cat has to manoeuvre less to get in and out.
If your cat is overweight this also puts more strain on their joints, aggravating the problem further, therefore weight loss is important.
Your cat may also need help with grooming however avoid the areas that are painful to your cat.
Cosequin can also be used to maintain bladder heath and aid Feline Idiopathic Cystitis as it helps strengthen the bladder wall, which protects the bladder from crystals in the urine and other substances which can irritate the bladder.

If your cat shows a change in the frequency of their urination then consult your vet and ask them about cosequin.