How to Help a Cat with Arthritis
Cats, like many other animals, are prone to arthritis. It is a degenerative issue, which tends to occur in old age and is caused by a break down of cartilage surrounding the joints. However, a domestic cat can begin to experience the first symptoms of the disease at just eight years old. Of course, due to the progressive nature of arthritis, it may be difficult for an owner to identify the early stages. Therefore, it is advisable to take preventative measures, such as ensuring that your cat is getting all essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids.
As a cat's arthritis worsens, he, or she, will begin to experience severe pain and, in some cases, may become demobilized by the condition. Subsequently, if your cat has arthritis it is important to do all you can to improve the situation. There are a number of ways to go about this; ranging from medication to homeopathic remedies. Two of the less stressful methods are to include supplements to your cat's diet and to alter his, or her, lifestyle.
Glucosamine
One of the most commonly used remedies in humans and animals; it is a natural substance found in plants and animals, which strengthens the joints by protecting the cartilage that remains. Glucosamine can be administered to your cat in two ways: intravenously or orally. An injection provides the most concentrated form of treatment and is, therefore, helpful in severe cases of arthritis. However, oral medication in liquid form can be added to a cat's food and, consequently, is less stressful for the animal. Of course, it is also possible to find glucosamine supplements in pill form. Compared with injections and liquids, this form of glucosamine is the least effective, but it can be beneficial if other methods are not possible or unavailable.
Omega 3
Like glucosamine, omega 3 is a naturally derived supplement, which aids movement and promotes healthy joints. Found in oily fish, your cat's intake of omega 3 can be increased by adding supplements, such as cod liver oil, to your pet's food. However, cod liver oil should always be given in moderation. Regardless of how severe a pet's arthritis is, a cat should have no more than ¼ of a teaspoonful of cod liver oil per day.
Chondroitin
Usually, chondroitin is given in conjunction with glucosamine, because chondroitin enhances the healing affects of glucosamine by increasing the absorption rate. Other benefits of chondroitin include healing damaged cartilage and protecting the healthy cartilage that remains. Additionally, you may find that chondroitin supplements offer added essential vitamins to promote overall health.
How to Help a Cat with Arthritis by Changing Diet and Lifestyle
Of course, supplements are not the only way to help ease a cat's arthritis. In fact, you may see marked results by making small changes to your pet's diet and increasing the amount of exercise he, or she, gets. As with any medical condition, prevention is better than cure and you can reduce your cat's chances of developing arthritis by keeping him, or her, on a healthy diet.
Obviously, obesity can put a greater strain on joints and will, therefore, worsen a cat's arthritic condition. Subsequently, if your cat is overweight, it is wise to seek the advice of a vet who will be able to offer healthy diet solutions.
Moreover, exercise is crucial in helping a cat with arthritis. Of course, if your cat is in a lot of pain, it may be tempting to reduce the amount of movement that he, or she, does. However, gentle exercise and continued movement is healthy and beneficial.
In any case of arthritis, it is wise to consult your vet before changing your cat's lifestyle, diet or adding supplements to his, or her, daily intake.
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About the Author:
Samantha Markham is a professional freelance writer. She is currently working on behalf of remmeer.com, a high quality supplier of pet products. Visit remmeer.com for a range of items for cat owners, including gifts for cat lovers and cat earrings & jewelry
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