As I’m sure your vet would have advised, there’s no cure for arthritis but there are lots of ways in which cats with the condition can be made more comfortable.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the most effective and generally safest. Whilst some NSAIDS have been specifically developed to be safe for use in cats, if they’re being used over the long term, your vet will need to monitor your pet’s kidney function. Other medicines include high-quality glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, which help protect cartilage (the flexible, connective tissue in joints).
There are also some practical steps you can take to help make life for your arthritic cat more comfortable, such as adapting your home. As well as this, maintaining a healthy weight is also important because any extra pounds will increase the strain on an animal’s joints. Arthritic cats move less and are unlikely to burn off extra calories, so for them weight management almost always requires a change of diet. Speak to your vet or an animal nutritionist for tips on how to do so.