Cat Joint Supplements

Cat joint swelling and pain are common in cats over the age of 7. This is due to the fact that the cat’s body no longer produces substances that are essential for the well being of bones and joints. Joint supplements are recommended to protect the cartilages and joints of felines.

Joint Problems in Cats

The joints are used on a daily basis and cats that are older or have excess weight are more exposed to developing joint problems. In addition, there are also a few enzymes produced in the cat’s body that destroy the joints and cartilages as the cat gets older.

The joints will get swollen and this condition causes a lot of pain. Arthritis is not a curable disease but the cat can receive a few pain killers and joint supplements that can help.

Arthritis can be delayed or prevented by administering a few joint supplements before the cat starts developing joint problems.

Glucosamine Supplements

Glucosamine is a substance that is naturally produced in the cat’s body and will maintain the health and integrity of the joints and cartilages. When the cat gets older, the amount of glucosamine produced will be reduced and the cat can suffer from joint inflammation and pain.

Glucosamine is the most commonly used supplement for joint problems in felines.

There are a few glucosamine supplements that will be recommended for cats with joint problems. Consequin is a well known supplement that contains also other substances besides glucosamine: manganese ascorbate or chondrotin sulfate. These additional substances also promote the health of joints and cartilages.

Glucosamine may not have a pleasant taste, but most manufacturers of joint supplements add different meat flavors to the supplements to make them more appealing for the pets.

Glucosamine may also be recommended for cats that don’t have joint problems but are very likely to develop arthritis. As a matter of fact, over 80% of cats over the age of 8 have joint problems and over 90% of cats over the age of 12 have arthritis.

In addition to glucosamine, there are several other joint supplements including herbal medicine supplements.

Effectiveness of Joint Supplement

The joint supplements administered in felines with joint and cartilage problems may be effective, but not in all cases. Some cats will respond to the supplements, while others will require additional treatment and will show no changes, not even after a lengthy administration of joint supplements.

If your pet takes joint supplements, you should see if the cat shows signs of improvement. Even if glucosamine or other joint supplements don’t have major side effects, the vet will discontinue the administration of these supplements if the cat shows no signs of improvement.

Joint Supplements Contraindications

The joint supplements are generally well tolerated by all cats, but some may experience an upset stomach.

The supplements are not recommended for cats that are in the process of growing, as the supplements can lead to abnormal bone development.

 

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