What Are the Signs of Arthritis in Cats?
📝 Summary
Cats hide pain, so arthritis shows quietly: smaller, stiffer movements, lameness, less grooming, more sleep, and sudden irritability when touched. Catch these early — joint disease is manageable if found soon.
1 Signs of Arthritis in Cats
Cats hide pain well, so arthritis is subtle — they just limit movement. Watch for: smaller motions (hesitant jumps, lower leaps, slow stiff steps, lameness, trouble in the litter box); much less activity (sleepy, apathetic, resting in easy-to-reach spots, ignoring play); less grooming (matted coat, overgrown nails from inactivity); and mood change (irritable, snappy when touched or played with, wanting to be alone).
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