Help your cat move freely again — treat arthritis from home

Arthritis (also called osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease) is a condition where the cartilage in the joints wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. In cats, it most commonly affects the hips, knees, and elbows. As the cartilage breaks down, the bones in the joint begin to rub together, which can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Arthritis is often associated with older cats, but it can affect cats of any age, especially if they've had injuries, infections, or certain genetic predispositions. While arthritis is a progressive condition that can't be fully cured, it can be managed with the right treatment, allowing your cat to live a comfortable, active life. Some key facts about arthritis in cats: • It affects up to 90% of cats over 12 years of age • It's often undiagnosed because cats hide their pain well • It can develop in any joint but is most common in hips, elbows, shoulders, and spine • Weight, genetics, injury, and activity level all play a role in development • With proper management, cats with arthritis can still enjoy a high quality of life

Cats are excellent at hiding pain, so arthritis in cats can sometimes go unnoticed until it becomes more severe. If you've noticed your cat moving differently or acting a little off, here are some signs that could indicate arthritis or joint discomfort: • Slower Movement or Stiffness: Does your cat take longer to get up from their bed, or seem stiffer after a nap? They might be feeling stiff or sore in their joints, especially after being still for a while. • Reluctance to Jump or Climb: Cats love to jump to high places, but if your cat is suddenly avoiding their favorite spots—like the top of the bookshelf or the windowsill—it could be because they're experiencing joint pain. • Limping or Favoring a Leg: If your cat is limping or seems to favor one leg, arthritis might be the cause. Pay attention to any changes in how they walk or move. • Reduced Grooming: Cats are fastidious groomers, but arthritis can make it difficult for them to reach certain areas of their body, especially if it involves stretching or twisting. This can lead to a lack of grooming and even matting in their fur. • Changes in Activity Level: If your cat is spending more time resting or seems uninterested in playing with their favorite toys, it might be due to joint pain. Cats with arthritis often become less active because movement is uncomfortable. • Aggression or Irritability: Pain can make cats grumpy. If your cat is acting more irritable or aggressive than usual, it could be because arthritis is making them feel vulnerable or uncomfortable. • Licking or Biting at Joints: Some cats will lick or bite at the area where they feel pain, such as their hips, back, or legs. It's their way of coping with the discomfort. • Changes in Posture: Cats with arthritis may adopt a "hunched" posture or appear to be walking stiffly, as they try to compensate for the pain in their joints. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to get your cat checked out by a vet. Fortunately, with Telavets, you don't even have to leave the house to get the care your cat needs!

At Telavets, we specialize in providing veterinary care for cats, all through the magic of telemedicine. No more stressful trips to the vet clinic—just easy video consultations from the comfort of your home. Here's how we can help your kitty feel better: 1. Virtual Vet Consultations – No Need for a Clinic Visit Does your cat hate going to the vet? Yeah, most cats do! With Telavets, you can have a video consultation with one of our expert veterinarians to discuss your cat's symptoms. We'll help you figure out what's causing their discomfort and provide a treatment plan—all from the comfort of your couch (where your cat will probably be snoozing, of course). 2. Personalized Treatment Plans for Arthritis Arthritis is a progressive condition, but that doesn't mean your cat can't still enjoy their life! After your consultation, we'll create a personalized treatment plan for your cat. This might include: • Pain Management: We can prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation, helping your cat feel more comfortable moving around. • Joint Supplements: Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can help support joint health and rebuild cartilage. We'll recommend the right supplement for your cat's specific needs. • Weight Management: Extra weight can make arthritis worse, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. We can help you create a diet plan to keep your cat at a healthy weight, easing the strain on their joints. • Exercise Recommendations: While cats aren't always as eager as dogs to exercise, gentle movement can help keep their joints mobile. We'll provide tips on how to get your cat moving comfortably. 3. Next-Day Medication Delivery – Fast Relief Your cat doesn't want to wait for relief, and neither do you! With Telavets, we offer next-day medication delivery, so your cat can start feeling better right away. Whether it's anti-inflammatory medications, pain relief, or joint supplements, we'll get the treatment to you quickly. 4. Ongoing Support – We're Here for You and Your Cat Arthritis management is an ongoing process, and your cat's needs may change over time. That's why we offer follow-up consultations to monitor your cat's progress and adjust their treatment plan as needed. We'll be there every step of the way to ensure your cat stays as comfortable as possible.

Arthritis isn't the only joint issue cats can face. Let's take a look at a few other common conditions and how Telavets can provide relief: 1. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't form properly, leading to arthritis and pain. We can help manage hip dysplasia with pain medications, joint supplements, and physical therapy tips to keep your cat moving comfortably. 2. Spinal Arthritis (Spondylosis) Arthritis in the spine can cause stiffness, pain, and difficulty moving. This is common in older cats, but it can be managed with medication and supportive care. Telavets can help with a plan that keeps your cat's spine as comfortable as possible. 3. Elbow Arthritis Elbow arthritis is less common but still a potential problem, especially in cats with prior injuries. Joint supplements and pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort, and we can guide you on keeping your cat's elbow joint as mobile as possible. 4. General Joint Stiffness Older cats often experience general joint stiffness as they age, making them less active and more reluctant to jump or play. With the right supplements, medications, and exercise adjustments, we can help your cat feel more agile and comfortable. 5. Cruciate Ligament Tears Just like humans, cats can tear ligaments in their knees, causing pain and instability. While severe tears may require surgery, minor tears can often be managed with rest, pain medication, and gradual rehabilitation—all of which Telavets can help guide you through.

We know how important your cat's comfort and happiness are to you. That's why we provide high-quality care to keep your cat's joints healthy and pain-free. Here's why Telavets is the best choice for managing your cat's arthritis: • Convenience: No stressful vet visits—just easy video consultations from home, which is especially beneficial for cats with mobility issues who find travel painful. • Expert Care: Our veterinarians specialize in feline health, including arthritis and joint issues, and stay current on the latest treatment options. • Fast Medication Delivery: With next-day delivery, your cat will get the relief they need quickly without you having to make trips to the pharmacy. • Comprehensive Approach: We don't just treat the symptoms—we address diet, environment, supplements, medications, and lifestyle modifications for total joint care. • Ongoing Support: Arthritis management is a marathon, not a sprint. We're here for you and your cat every step of the way with regular check-ins and treatment adjustments. • Education and Resources: We provide you with the knowledge and tools to help your cat at home, from creating accessible spaces to recognizing signs of pain. Arthritis doesn't have to slow your cat down! With the right treatment, your cat can still live a happy, active life, even with joint pain. Whether it's arthritis, hip dysplasia, or general stiffness, Telavets is here to help your kitty feel their best.