Osteoarthritis is a disease that commonly affects the elderly in the human population. Most of us are familiar with the effects of osteoarthritis in humans, including joint pain and stiffness. But do you know studies indicate that as high as 60% of cats over 6 years of age and 90% of cats over 12 years of age show clinical signs and/or radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis?

Same as in humans, chronic pain can not only affect the quality of life physically, but also emotionally. Because our feline friends are generally very good at hiding their pain, a behavioral history based on owners’ observation at home can be very helpful when we are suspecting osteoarthritis. Cats’ osteoarthritis pain can lead to subtle to easily noticeable clinical signs, such as slowing down, being less energetic, being less enthusiastic, hiding more, or showing hesitation in their everyday activities. Grooming, jumping, climbing stairs, and playing might become more difficult for them. Osteoarthritis can also affect cats’ litter box habits, especially when the sides of the litter box are too tall, making it challenging for them to enter and exit.

Lilly, our pet of the month for June, is a 17-year-old Domestic Longhair cat. Lilly has always struggled a bit with being overweight which anyone with cats can relate to. Cats want what they want. Recently her owner noticed Lilly having difficulty jumping and moving. She had become less active, and she stopped using her cat tree. A physical exam at Hawthorne Hills Veterinary Hospital confirmed their suspicion. There are not as many treatment options for osteoarthritis in cats compared to dogs.

After discussing with our doctor the options for osteoarthritis treatment, Lilly was started on Solensia injections. Solensia, a monthly injection administered by veterinarians, is specifically designed to control pain associated with osteoarthritis. It is a monoclonal antibody, and it works by targeting nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that contributes to nerve sensitization and pain signaling in osteoarthritis. It is the only FDA-approved injectable treatment for this condition in cats.

We are glad to hear back from Lilly’s owner one week after the Solensia injection that she is less stiff.

During Lilly’s next Solensia injection appointment one month later, her owner told us Lilly’s mobility has improved significantly. There were no signs of pain when she’s getting up and down. She is so much more active, and she even started playing with Aslan, the other cat in the house. Afterwards, Lilly continues to come back to Hawthorne Hills Veterinary Hospital for her monthly Solensia injections. Although Lilly’s Solensia injection is now delayed due to other health concerns, we believe she will be happy to receive her next dose once other issues are addressed. If you suspect your cat has osteoarthritis, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors today.

Here are more resources if you think your cat is experiencing pain. Besides Osteoarthritis, there are other causes of pain, and a full evaluation by your veterinarian is in order.