A Short Guide to Feline Arthritis

Cat arthritis is the inflammation of the joints and can be the result of a wide variety of causes. It is a terribly painful health issue that is commonly seen in cats that are active and athletic. Cat arthritis is usually found in cats that are athletic and active on a daily basis. These cats are generally those who are allowed outside. These two factors increase the risk of developing arthritis dramatically. A caat taht is constantly running around will wear out its joints and ligaments faster. On top of this, outdoor cats are more likely to be injured. Interestingly, accidents account for a high percentage of the causes of arthritis in cats. A few other causes that are not related to age or activity are infections, development problems and dysfunctional immune systems.

Swollen and inflamed joints are the primary symptom of cat arthritis. Swollen joints cause pain that is both constant and intense. This pain will causes a cat to be less active and some will cease moving unnecessarily altogether. You will probably notice when you cat does move, that walking looks laboured and stiff. Cold temperatures are bad for cats that have arthritis and you will see the symptoms get worse in the winter months. Another sign that your cat may have arthritis is if it experiences drastic mood changes. The constant pain can cause a cat to be more aggressive than usual.

Taking a trip to the vet is the best way to find out whether or not your cat has arthritis. Several tests will be conducted by the vet so that a proper diagnosis can be given. The first thing the vet will do is make your cat move around and see how it reacts to certain movements. Fluid from inside the cat’s joints will then be taken using a needle. X-rays are another test that can be taken to help the vet diagnose your cat.

Mild cases of arthritis can be treated by administering anti-swelling medication and getting lots of sleep. If the arthritis is more severe, surgery may be needed to cure your cat completely, but dressings can be applied to keep the joints stationary in the short term. Cats that are overweight may develop arthritis because of the added strain on their joints. The only way to treat this particular case is to put the cat on a diet and exercise regimen.

Arthritis is only one of many mild cases of arthritis that can affect your cat's health. Make sure you know all of the mild cases of arthritis so you can get your cat treated as soon as possible.

Letting Your Cat Outdoors - The Dangers and Solutions

As you might know, it is advised that you don't let your cat roam freely away from home. There are countless minimizing the hazards out there that could hurt your cat. However, it is obvious that the outside environment is a wonderful place full of adventure for a cat. It's filled with interesting sights and smells, and the clean air is helpful for everyone's health. Nevertheless, there are many harmless ways to give your cat the benefits of being outside while greatly minimizing the hazards. 

1. Teach your cat to run on a leash. This tip is not easy or safe against every casualty, but a secure harness and leash can allow both you and your cat many great times together. If you are able to start this training while your cat is young, the activity will be much more regular to your cat, but a lot of grown up felines are also amenable. Definitely use a cat safety harness and never a collar by itself. Never be surprised when your cat displays harsh complaints at the beginning. Nearly every cat, even when they are used to to the harness, will not halt once they first notice the pull of the leash. It always takes time and patience, but with a cat, what doesn't?

2. Create an outdoor enclosure. This may be accomplished from scratch if you or an acquaintance is good with tools, or with a kit (these are usually available online in all conceivable dimensions and shapes). Many people have been very creative when dealing with small or strangely shaped areas. Few have created tunnels from a window to a more open area, access routes through walls or under stairs, or they just carry the cat from the house to the enclosure. Always remind yourself that kittens are able to climb and jump; and that other cats are able to attack from ground or air.