Feline Arthritis Treatment through Exercise

The feline arthritis treatment may be done in several steps and may include medication treatment and a change in the cat’s diet. Arthritis is typically a disease of old age, but obese or overweight cats are also prone to developing this health issue earlier in their life. Managing arthritis through exercise can be a good idea both for obese cats and pets that have a normal weight. Exercise can improve the cat’s movement and will also lead to weight loss in overweight cats.

Arthritis Treatment in Cats

Arthritis is a disease that affects the joints and the cartilages of the pet and will advance. The disease is not reversible, but there are some supplements and drugs that can repair the joints and cartilages, reducing the swelling and the pain. Glucosamine supplements are most often administered in felines with arthritis.

In addition to the medication treatment, a change in diet may also be recommended. The change in diet will make sure that the cat loses weight (or won’t gain more weight), but will also provide only quality ingredients to the pet.

Exercise should also be a part of the arthritis treatment in cats, as this can reduce the pain and may even be helpful to reduce the cat’s extra pounds that can cause additional pressure on the joints. Even if the cat is not overweight, exercise can help improve the pet’s ability to move.

Arthritis Management through Exercise for Obese Cats

In obese cats, exercise is an essential component of the arthritis management. Some cats develop arthritis at an early age due to the excess weight.

The excess weight can press on the joints and these will be sore and swollen.

The exercise program in obese cats affected by arthritis should focus on helping the cat lose some weight and also improve the cat’s ability to move.

The cat is only allowed low impact exercise such as swimming or aqua aerobics, as other types of exercise may not be beneficial for the pet’s joints.

The exercise should also focus on increasing the cat’s heart rate and this can help him lose some weight.

It’s important to make the cat exercise on a daily basis, as in this manner he will lose the excess weight faster. Talk to a vet to determine the amount of exercise your cat can get and you can also talk to a physical therapist that can supervise your pet and make sure he won’t get hurt while he exercises.

Arthritis Management for Cats with Normal Weight

A cat with arthritis may have difficulties performing certain movements. Daily exercise can improve the cat’s movement and reduce pain.

Just as in obese cats with arthritis, the type of exercise recommended should be low impact, so as to protect the joints.

The cat can swim or walk on the pet treadmill.

Physical therapy may also be recommended, as the therapist will perform some movements that will benefit the cat’s joints and improve his overall condition.  

 

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