Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Is my old cat's front paw pain from arthritis? How can I help her?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

Hello, my 12 year old (not overweight) cat has been gradually getting a little gimpy in her front paws. She doesn't mind if I touch them, but her jumping looks uncomfortable and she sometimes shakes one of her paws. I always assumed she is just getting old and creaky like me, but if there's anything I can do to help her manage discomfort, I'd like to. Thank you

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on July 24th, 2019

Hi there. Older cats can sometimes develop arthritis or other chronic orthopedic issues as they get older. You don't mention if she is declawed or not, but if she is, this would be even more common. I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam when you're able to - if she does have arthritis, there are prescription pain medications that can be used long-term to make her much more comfortable, just like an older human with arthritis issues.

In the meantime, you could also try adding a daily joint supplement such as Cosequin along with an omega-2 fatty acid supplement such as Welactin to her food each day. These can both be helpful for arthritis issues in both dogs and cats.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 16th, 2017

    Hi and thanks for using PetCoach! Nurmal, that is one great name. Good question. X-rays of the bones and joints is the way that we would try to diagnose arthritis in cats. The arthritis has to be significant enough to produce radiographic changes. Some signs in cats are not as active as usual, crying/meowing a lot possibly indicating pain, not jumping up on furniture, counters, etc. Cats can suffer arthritis and it's important to be on the lookout for it as cats age. Treatment is available but some of the drugs that we use can have adverse side effects on some of the internal organs so it is always advised to do some blood work prior to starting some of the medications. Of course, some supplements can be used such as joint supplements and fish oil.

    I would advise that you check out the following website and these great supplements- http://www.vrshealth.com/feline-products/?petcoach=1977951
    Check out the Osteo TruBenefits for cats and the Omega Benefits for small dogs and cats.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Vet Q & A
My senior cat is limping on a front leg. What causes it and what helps?
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.
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Health & Wellness
How can I help my senior cat with arthritis pain and discomfort?
Cats are very sensitive to pain medication so only use it if it’s been prescribed by your veterinarian. Giving omega 3 supplementation wiill help reduce the pain and inflammation from arthritis. Switching to Hills J/D diet, a prescription cat diet formulated for cats with arthritis helps also. In addition I find massage, laser and acupuncture to be effective for pain relief without medication. Also CBD oil can reduce arthritis pain. Please use a veterinary brand that has been tested and is correctly dosed for cats. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Anabel.
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Health & Wellness
My older cat struggles to jump and has sensitive back legs. Is it arthritis?
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am very suspicious of arthritis is Sassy based on what you describe. Arthritis is not unexpected - but also not "normal". I do recommend treatment to give her the best quality life she can have. See your vet to help rule out something more nefarious (because cancer and other things also can cause problems in older cats). Then have a discussion about safe medications and supplements for cats. Some of my favorites are adequan, duralactin, and gabapentin. Best of luck to you and Sassy!
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Health & Wellness
Why is my senior cat suddenly struggling to jump and showing leg pain?
At his age, he likely has some arthritis. I suggest you get him started on a joint supplement. https://worldtails.securevetsource.com/itemView/view/198944_HomeDelivery.pml?productId=120626 Give it a good 4-6 weeks to see if it helps him. If not, then please post again and we'll see if we can give you some more suggestions.
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Health & Wellness
Is my senior cat's difficulty jumping onto furniture normal?
Many cats show signs of osteoarthritis on radiographs as seniors even when they don't seem to be obviously painful. Since this is a recent change I'd recommend seeing your vet for a physical exam. If they agree that your cat may have arthritis they might recommend a joint supplement like Dasuquin or a trial of pain medication to see if it helps with mobility.
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Vet Q & A
My senior cat has arthritis. What natural pain relief is safe?
You should get glucosamine and SAMe tablets - they are natural supplements with scientific proof that they do something good for the joints. You should be able to get these products over-the-counter at pet shops or at the vets.
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Vet Q & A
My overweight cat limps after resting. Should I worry about 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.
Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Related Searches

Pain Meds & Arthritis Relief for CatsCat FoodCat SuppliesWet Cat FoodCat Health & WellnessSenior Cat Vitamins & SupplementsCat Hip & Joint SupplementsDog Pain Relief & Arthritis MedsCat Vitamins & SupplementsCat MedicineCat Urinary CareCat Thyroid MedicationSenior Cat FoodCat First AidHeart & Blood Pressure Medicine for CatsCat Allergy & Itch ReliefSkin & Coat Supplements for CatsCat Dental CareAntifungal Medication for CatsCat Urinary Tract & Kidney Medication
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Share

Styled arrow button