Arthritic cat

[cherrybomb]

I have been watching my male 12yr old cat for a few days now and searching on the web and I am certain he is suffering from arthritis he has all the classic symptoms. I am taking him to the vet's next week and I am determined that I am not going to go down the joint replacement road, he seems to cope with it himself and he is exactly the same cat in every other way. It's just that it breaks my heart to see him like this and just want someone who has experienced this with their own cat, advice on how best to care for him. Thank you in advance       

[woofgang]

I haven't got a cat but do know that there are loads of things that you can do besides joint replacement. Your vet can prescribe anti arthritis and pain relief medication for a start. Give your cat a (gentle) hug from me. What a nice owner you are!

[Eels]

Medication available for arthritic cats is limited compared to what's out there for dogs, but joint supplements such a glucosamine and chondroitin, very small amounts of cod liver oil once a week and copper or magnet therapy may be helpful.  Some vets will let you use low doses of dog medication but will warn you about potential side-effects.  It's a question of making sure the animal is comfortable as a first priority.

[mystress]

Hi cherrybomb,

I agree with Eels,

We used to give our "old lady one Cod Liver Oil capsule a day,and although this did not cure the Arthritis,it certainly eased the discomfort.We had no diffculty in her taking them (they are VERY fishy) but if you do, just squeeze the oil out of of the capsule into the food.

Nice to see someone so considerate of their pet (for a change).

[FP]

Agree with all the other replies and send love to you and your cat.  So many people wouldn't even notice or care. xxxxxx

[cherrybomb]

Thank you to everyone who answered. I appreciate your help and kind words. I have started Murphy on cod liver oil, bought him a bean-bag so he doesn't have to struggle getting on the bed and wait and see what the vet says.

Got to go and make a fuss of the younger cat now. I think he is starting to get jealous of all the attention I am giving to Murphy.

Thanks again

[Ice_maiden]

is your cat ginger by any chance