Arthritis is one of the most common and most overlooked health issues in older cats. Studies show that the majority of senior cats—up to 80–90%—have some degree of osteoarthritis, even if they never limp or cry out. Because cats are experts at hiding pain, early symptoms are often so quiet that owners dismiss them as “just getting older.”

But arthritis isn’t just stiffness. Over time, joint inflammation can affect how your cat moves, grooms, sleeps, uses the litter box, and even interacts with you. The earlier you notice the subtle signs, the sooner your veterinarian can help improve comfort and mobility.

If you’re trying to understand whether your cat may be showing early signs of arthritis, here are four behaviors that deserve a closer look.

1. Cat Stopped Using Litter Box

When a cat suddenly begins urinating or defecating outside the box, arthritis rarely comes to mind at first. But joint pain can make certain movements like stepping over a high rim, squatting, turning in place, much more difficult.

Arthritis most often affects joints like the elbows, hips, knees, and lower spine, all of which your cat depends on to climb into the litter box. Cats with joint discomfort may begin:

• Choosing softer or more accessible areas to eliminate
• Using the box inconsistently
• Showing hesitation or visible discomfort when stepping inside

Many pet parents assume this behavior is “acting out,” when in reality it may be one of the earliest signs that your cat is struggling with mobility. You may also notice your cat avoiding stairs, jumping less often, or tiring more easily during normal daily routines.

2. Cat Is Waking Frequently at Night

Cats normally sleep for long, uninterrupted stretches. If your once-sound sleeper begins pacing, shifting positions repeatedly, or crying overnight, joint discomfort could be the reason.

Unlike humans or dogs, cats rarely vocalize pain. Instead, they show it through:

• Difficulty settling into a comfortable sleeping position
• Restlessness during the night
• Avoiding curled or tucked positions they once loved

Nighttime often magnifies discomfort because there are fewer distractions. If your cat’s sleep patterns have changed, consider it an important piece of the puzzle when discussing arthritis with your vet.

3. Cat`s Fur Is Becoming Dull or Matted

Grooming is a major part of a cat’s daily routine and a strong indicator of well-being. When arthritis makes bending or twisting uncomfortable, cats may groom less thoroughly or stop grooming altogether.

You may notice:

• Matted fur along the back or sides
• Greasy or flaky areas they used to keep pristine
• Difficulty reaching their hindquarters

This isn’t laziness. Grooming requires flexibility and balance. If those movements cause pain, your cat may simply avoid them. For many owners, coat changes are the first visual clue that something deeper is going on.

4. Cat Became More Irritable or Avoids Being Touched

Changes in mood can be one of the strongest but most misunderstood signs of chronic pain in cats.

Cats with arthritis may:

• Pull away when you reach toward painful areas
• Growl or swat when picked up
• Avoid laps or cuddling
• Become quieter, withdrawn, or prefer being left alone

Because cats can’t always communicate pain directly, they often express discomfort through behavior. If a once-affectionate cat becomes irritable or reactive, especially during handling, pain is a possibility worth exploring.

Why Do So Many Cats Develop Arthritis?

Many owners are surprised to learn that arthritis is extremely common in older cats—even those who have never been injured.

A few important insights:

1. Age is the biggest factor

Most cats over the age of six already have early cartilage changes, and by their senior years, joint degeneration is nearly universal.

2. Some cats are genetically predisposed

Breeds like Maine Coons have a known susceptibility to hip-related joint disease.

3. Past injuries and chronic wear matter

Even low-grade, repeated microtrauma—jumping from high surfaces, slipping, past sprains—can contribute over time.

4. Obesity isn’t always the cause

In dogs, excess weight is strongly linked to arthritis. In cats, the connection is weaker. Many slim or athletic cats still develop OA simply due to aging and structural changes in their joints.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Arthritis in Cats

If you bring your cat in for suspected arthritis, your veterinarian may combine several approaches:

Behavior review

Your observations at home are often the most valuable. Videos of your cat moving can be hugely helpful, since cats rarely walk naturally at the vet’s office.

Physical examination

Vets look for stiffness, resistance to movement, sensitivity when joints are gently handled, and subtle changes in posture or muscle tone.

Imaging

X-rays can reveal bone remodeling or mineralization around joints, but they don’t always correlate perfectly with pain levels. Many cats show joint discomfort long before radiographs show significant changes.

Activity-based tools

Some veterinarians use accelerometers or other devices to track mobility patterns and quantify behavior changes over time.

How Feline Arthritis Is Treated

Once arthritis is diagnosed, the focus is on helping your cat stay comfortable and moving well. While there’s no cure, many cats do feel better with a combination of at-home changes and veterinary care.

1. Pain Relief and Medications

Veterinarians often start with medications that help reduce pain and inflammation. These therapies can make daily activities easier, but many require long-term use, which can be challenging for cats who dislike pills or frequent dosing.

2. Weight Management and Gentle Activity

If your cat is carrying extra weight, even a small reduction can ease pressure on sore joints. Short, gentle play sessions help maintain muscle strength, which supports better mobility.

3. Joint Supplements

Your vet may recommend supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids or ingredients like glucosamine to help support joint health. These won’t reverse arthritis but may help improve overall comfort over time.

4. Environmental Adjustments

Simple changes at home can make a big difference, such as:

• A low-entry litter box
• Soft, supportive bedding
• Ramps or steps to reach favorite resting spots

These help reduce the strain on stiff or painful joints.

5. Other Supportive Therapies

Some clinics offer rehabilitation exercises, laser therapy, acupuncture, or other supportive treatments. These don’t work for every cat but can provide additional comfort.

Stem Cells for Feline Osteoarthritis

Current treatments focus mainly on managing symptoms. That’s why researchers are exploring new options that may help support joint health more directly.

Gallant is studying uterine-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UMSCs)—a type of donor-derived stem cell collected humanely during routine spay procedures. These cells are being investigated for their potential to:

• Help modulate inflammation
• Support joint comfort
• Promote a healthier environment inside the arthritic joint

Our research follows FDA-regulated guidelines and uses cGMP-manufactured cell therapies designed for consistency, safety, and quality.

While still investigational, stem cell therapy represents a promising area of study for cats living with osteoarthritis.

Explore Our Clinical Trials

Learn more about ongoing Gallant clinical trials and how your cat might benefit from regenerative medicine research.

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