Cats – agile, flexible, and graceful creatures – are still regarded by many owners as symbols of elegance. For centuries, cats have been valued for their ability to jump, climb, and quickly adapt to their surroundings. However, this innate agility often conceals a serious problem that, just a decade ago, veterinarians rarely discussed. Increasingly, breeders and responsible owners are noticing that joint issues are not just a concern for senior cats. The signs of joint problems are especially common in purebred cats and can appear at a young age.
Pain hides behind quiet behavior
Aušra Tasiukevičiūtė–Sedekerskė, veterinarian and representative of “Kauno grūdai” Veterinary Pharmaceuticals, points out that feline osteoarthritis is one of the most frequently undiagnosed chronic conditions.
“Cats are masters at hiding pain – it’s a survival mechanism. However, attentive owners can detect subtle changes: decreased activity, reluctance to jump, avoidance of stairs, or refusal to use the litter box if it’s placed in an inconvenient location,” she explains.
Various studies show that up to 90% of senior cats may suffer from joint pain, but such cases often go unnoticed. This information is especially important for breeders, as joint discomfort can affect not only a cat’s activity but also mating behavior, overall reproductive success, and even the health of future kittens.
Prevention – the foundation of long-term well-being
Tasiukevičiūtė–Sedekerskė emphasizes that timely prevention can significantly improve a cat’s quality of life.
“Today, the market offers more and more functional treats that are not only enjoyable for cats but also beneficial for their health. One of the newest products is a supplement enriched with eggshell membrane, which naturally contains collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and peptides. This composition works comprehensively on the joints – reducing inflammation, improving flexibility, and helping to maintain cartilage structure,” she notes.
According to her, particular attention is given to supplements containing hyaluronic acid, krill meal, and the natural antioxidant astaxanthin.
“Cat-specific formulas are often designed with their taste preferences in mind, so even the pickiest pets accept these treats willingly – without the stress of swallowing pills. Some breeders have already dubbed such supplements ‘joint insurance,’” the veterinarian adds with a smile.
What goes in the bowl matters more than you think
The veterinary specialist reminds us that the effectiveness of supplements also depends on overall nutrition.
“This is especially true if the cat is overweight, has metabolic issues, or a sensitive digestive system. In such cases, it’s important to choose not only the right treats but also a complete, specialized diet that supports joint function and overall well-being.”
According to Tasiukevičiūtė–Sedekerskė, modern high-quality pet foods are formulated to ensure that even the most sensitive cats receive all essential nutrients.
“For example, foods containing high-quality proteins, reduced calorie content, and additional joint-supporting ingredients help maintain a healthy weight while protecting the joints. Breeders particularly value such diets to ensure the long-term health of their cats – from active youth to peaceful old age,” she explains.
Listen to what the body is saying
Because osteoarthritis develops slowly, it’s important to regularly observe your cat.
“Ask yourself control questions: Can your cat still jump onto the windowsill? Does she play as she used to? Has her gait or sleeping position changed? Even small behavioral changes can signal pain, so if you notice such symptoms, it’s worth consulting a veterinarian and discussing next steps. If your cat is part of a breeding program, prevention is even more important, as even subclinical joint damage can affect her health and the quality of her offspring,” the specialist reminds.
The veterinarian calls on pet owners to make responsible daily decisions.
“Cats don’t complain about pain out loud – they quietly adapt. That’s why it’s our duty to focus on disease prevention. The sooner we incorporate joint health support into their diet, the longer we’ll enjoy an active, healthy cat.”