Have an elderly cat? Are you finding that they can’t do all the things they used to? It’s possible your cat has stiff joints and could use some extra support to help them remain mobile and active. Spot the signs and find out more about joint care for cats of all ages.
Joint Care PLUS for Cats
- Designed to support older and stiffer cats
- Helps keep your cat active and mobile
- Sprinkle over food or feed by hand
We love so many things about our cats – their independence, their zest for life, and their eccentricities. When that attitude changes, it is worthwhile investigating if they might have joint stiffness. Read on to find out what to look for.
Is your elderly cat more irritable? Stiff joints might be the reason
If your cat is stiff every time they walk, stretch or try to groom, they will almost certainly be more irritable. Look out for the following signs:
- Snapping when handled – you may be putting pressure on sensitive joints when you lift your cat
- Refusing to come near you – if your cat is experiencing stiffness, they might avoid putting themselves in situations where they might be handled
Cat supplements, such as YuMOVE Joint Care for All Cats, contain Green Lipped Mussel powder to help support joints and maintain mobility.
Has your cat stopped grooming?
Cats are fastidious groomers, so you know something’s not quite right when they let themselves look a bit bedraggled. Stiff joints might mean your cat can’t raise their paws or twist and bend as easily when grooming. This can then lead to them missing spots and looking a bit dishevelled. You can help by:
- Consulting with your vet – first and foremost, we always recommend consulting with your vet if your cat appears to be struggling with their grooming or exhibits any other unusual behaviours.
- Supporting their joint health and mobility with good nutrition and supplementation – your vet can advise you on the best nutrition plan for your cat, and we’d certainly recommend adding YuMOVE Joint Care for All Cats to the mix for some extra supplemental support.
- Helping your cat groom – brush them regularly to remove dirt and matting from their fur. If possible, take them to a cat groomer who can help keep their appearance and hygiene in tip-top shape.
Is your cat sleeping more than usual?
Cats love to sleep. In fact, cats sleep an average of 16 hours every day. So, you might be forgiven for not noticing when your cat is sleeping more than usual. But this can be a sign of joint stiffness, particularly in elderly cats. So why does this happen?
- More easily tired – living with stiff joints is a tiring business when you’re a cat. Your cat uses all their joints all the time and will need to rest more.
- Overweight? If your cat is moving less, they might also be putting on weight. It is worth a quick weigh-in at your vet and a re-assessment of their diet to help them lose weight. Ask your vet for specific nutritional guidance and a weight loss plan, if in doubt.
Has your cat stopped jumping up?
Cats are naturally nimble creatures and are used to jumping up and down from substantial heights. This takes a lot of joint strength, so it’s not surprising if they’re finding it difficult when their joints become stiff. If you notice that your cat is reluctant to jump as high as they used to – or not able to jump at all, it might be because they’re stiff.
- Climbing assistance – you can help your cat to climb without jumping by placing stools, boxes or other climbing aids near the places where you know your cat likes to be. Giving them some climbing support will help them to get to their favourite spots again.
- Visit the vet – it can be tricky to spot the signs of stiff joints in your cat. If these ring a bell, spend a bit of time observing and recording your cat’s behaviour and visit your vet for a check-up.
Joint Care PLUS for Cats
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Have you spotted any of the tell-tale signs that your cat could use some extra support? If so, explore our range of cat joint supplements – including new high-strength YuMOVE Joint Care PLUS for Cats – and help to keep them feline great!
