Advancements in the Management of Feline Osteoarthritis

Recognizing and Treating a Silent Epidemic

Feline osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in companion animal medicine—yet it affects an overwhelming majority of senior cats. Radiographic evidence suggests that up to 90% of cats over the age of 12 have signs of OA, but clinical recognition remains low. This is partly because cats rarely present with lameness, and early symptoms often appear as subtle changes in behavior, grooming, or mobility.

This technical bulletin offers a comprehensive review of the current understanding of feline OA—its pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and available treatment options—while exploring promising innovations that may redefine how the disease is managed in the future.

Inside the Bulletin

Veterinarians will find practical, evidence-based guidance on:

• Epidemiology & Risk Factors: Age, breed predispositions, and the complex interplay of idiopathic and secondary OA
• Diagnostic Strategies: How to combine radiography, client-specific outcome measures (CSOMs), physical exams, and behavioral assessments to detect disease early
• Pathophysiology: The mechanisms behind joint degeneration and how inflammation, cartilage breakdown, and metabolic factors contribute
• Treatment Approaches:
  • NSAIDs and the safe use of meloxicam and robenacoxib
  • Monoclonal antibody therapy with frunevetmab
  • Adjunctive therapies such as gabapentin, tramadol, and amantadine
  • Dietary and nutraceutical strategies, including omega-3s and weight management
  • Environmental modifications and physical rehabilitation

• Regenerative medicine therapies: A discussion of the potential—and current limitations—of regenerative treatments in feline OA
• Owner Education & Placebo Effect: How the caregiver’s perception influences outcomes, and the tools practices can use to better educate pet parents

Why This Matters

Without proactive identification and multimodal management, feline OA can have a profound impact on comfort, behavior, and the human-animal bond. Yet cats often suffer in silence. By equipping veterinary teams with up-to-date clinical insights and practical implementation strategies, this bulletin aims to bridge the gap between disease prevalence and effective care.

Veterinarians are uniquely positioned to elevate the standard of OA care—not only through medical interventions, but also by guiding clients toward earlier recognition, consistent monitoring, and informed decision-making.

Download the Full Bulletin

Download the full technical bulletin (PDF)

This content is for educational purposes only and reflects Gallant’s commitment to advancing ethical and evidence-based veterinary research.