My elderly cat limps and has hip pain. Could it be arthritis?

From your description, arthritis is quite possible. It is often under-diagnosed in cats because they are really good at hiding signs of pain. I would recommend that you have Jinx checked out by the vet and have x-rays done to check for this possibility. If they suspect arthritis, they can discuss supplements or medication to help her be more comfortable.

Most likely this is arthritis. If he isn't limping then this is aa good indicator that it isn't causing too much pain yet. You can try over the counter joint supplements like Cosequin to help replenish fluid in the joint and also to help slow down the progression of arthritis. If he develops pain or limping then it is best to have the limb radiographed to get a better idea of what is happening internally, and also to get a prescription for stronger medications to help with pain.

Cat limping can have a variety of causes, including injury to soft tissues (muscles, tendons, and ligaments), broken bones, patella luxation (slipping kneecap), arthritis, infection, or a back injury. For instance, a partial tear to a ligament may result in intermittent limping, leading a pet parent to believe that the injury is less serious than it is. Arthritis is a common cause of limping, pain and join stiffness in older cats. Arthritic limping may seem worse in the morning and on colder days and usually gets worse over time. Animals of all ages are susceptible to back injuries, which can cause limping and an abnormal gait. Elderly animals are particularly prone to back injuries due to spinal degeneration. Such limps may seem to come and go.

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. 80% of cats over the age of 8 and 95% of cats over the age of 12 will have arthritis. Cats are just very good at hiding their pain. It is likely that Lychee just has arthritis which is normal. There are treats that have medications in them that help the body produce more fluid in the joints, these can help. If the arthritis becomes severe (you are noticing Lychee slow or sore at home), then you can use stronger drugs, but these do have side effects. If Lychee is overweight then getting her on a diet and increasing the muscle mass is the BEST treatment for arthritis. Best of luck with Lychee!

So sorry that he is having this problem. You could try a joint supplement, like Dasuquin or Cosequin for cats, and see if that helps. If not, he should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. Your vet can take an x-ray to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat. He may need an anti-inflammatory and pain medications and your vet can prescribe.

If Paris is lame and painful, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian. An exam and possibly x-rays may provide a diagnosis. Afterwards, pain medication can be dispensed or administered by your veterinarian if indicated. Restrict her activity, if possible, until she sees the doctor.

I'm sorry Shadow is limping! No, it's not likely the vet injured her during the first visit. When we do a lameness exam, yes we do manipulate the legs but not enough to cause injury. If she does have spinal issues, it does make sense that she will show varying degrees of limping at times. I'd recommend having x-rays done on her spine to see if she is suffering from spinal problems. Unfortunately, kidney failure is very common in senior cats. It can be managed symptomatically, but it cannot be cured.