If your cat starts moving less or seems hesitant to jump, it could be a sign they’re dealing with joint pain. This is especially common in older cats, who often develop arthritis as they age. While it can be difficult to see your once-energetic cat slowing down, there are ways to help ease their discomfort.
One way to do this is by using cat joint supplements. There are tons of joint supplements available for cats out there, and they come in different forms — like liquids, chews, capsules, or powders. Join us as we discuss some of the best joint supplements from Under the Weather, so keep reading!
However, before you start your cat on any new supplement, you should talk to your vet to make sure it’s the right choice.
Understanding Joint Problems in Cats
Cats can experience lots of different joint issues that can affect their health and happiness. Here are some of the most common joint problems in cats:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint issue in cats, especially as they get older. Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time. This causes pain and makes it harder for your cat to move. You might notice your cat struggling to jump, limping, or acting more irritable if they have Osteoarthritis.
Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects certain cat breeds more than others. It usually happens when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. This can lead to instability and eventually arthritis. Cats with hip dysplasia might seem uncomfortable when walking or jumping, or they may avoid these activities entirely.
Patellar luxation
This condition, also known as a slipping kneecap, occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position, causing pain or discomfort. Cats with patellar luxation might sometimes hop on three legs, holding up the leg that’s affected.
Traumatic arthritis
Traumatic arthritis is inflammation in a joint caused by an injury or trauma. It can happen in any joint in the cat’s body and often leads to ongoing pain and stiffness. Cats with this condition might become less active, avoid movement, or show signs of discomfort when touched.
Arthritis in Cats
Arthritis is a condition where the smooth cartilage that protects the bones in the joints wears away. This usually leads to pain and reduced mobility. While it’s more common in older cats, younger cats can also develop arthritis due to injuries or genetic factors.
Treating arthritis in cats usually involves managing their pain, making some lifestyle changes, and using supplements. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve their pain. Keeping your cat’s weight in check is also important.
This means providing them with gentle exercise and giving them warm, comfy bedding (both of which can help improve their mobility). Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements that can also help improve joint health in cats.
What Are the Best Joint Supplements for Cats?
When it comes to picking out the best joint supplements for your cat, there’s a lot to consider. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best joint supplements for cats from Under the Weather:
Colostrum Gel for cats
If you’re looking for a great joint supplement for your cat(s), you should try out Under the Weather’s Colostrum Gel. Colostrum is packed with antibodies and growth factors that help reduce inflammation, aid in tissue repair, and improve immune function.
This means that Colostrum gel could be especially beneficial for older cats with joint issues since it supports the body’s natural healing processes while also strengthening the immune system. Here’s what you can expect from Under the Weather’s Colostrum Gel:
- Anti-Inflammatory: The antibodies and growth factors in colostrum help reduce joint inflammation. This will ease your cat’s pain and improve their mobility.
- Tissue Repair: Colostrum also helps repair and regenerate tissues, which is super important for maintaining joint health in older cats.
- Immune Support: Since it’s rich in antibodies, Colostrum helps improve the cat’s immune system.
Mobility Soft Chews
Under the Weather also has Mobility Soft Chews that are designed to support your cat’s joint health. These chews contain important ingredients — like glucosamine and chondroitin — which help maintain healthy cartilage and reduce joint inflammation.
Using these chews regularly can help ease stiffness in your cat’s joints, and make daily activities like jumping and playing more comfortable for them. Let’s take a look at the benefits of Mobility Soft Chews:
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin in these chews help keep the cartilage in joints healthy and support joint function, which is especially helpful for older cats with joint problems.
- Reduction of Inflammation: These ingredients also help lower inflammation and pain in the joints, which makes it easier for your cat to move around.
- Tasty and Easy to Give: The chews are flavored with salmon and made from natural ingredients, so they’re both delicious and easy to give to your cat every day.
- Veterinarian-Approved: Developed with input from vets, these chews are safe, effective, and made in the USA with high-quality ingredients.
How to Choose the Right Joint Supplement for Your Cat
When you’re picking out a joint supplement for your cat, there are a few things to take into consideration:
- Ingredients: Make sure to choose supplements that have glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen in them. These ingredients are great for supporting joint health.
- Form: Pick a form that your cat will actually eat (i.e. chews, gels, or powders).
- Veterinarian-Formulated: Make sure the product is made with input from vets to make sure it’s safe and effective.
The Benefits of Joint Supplements for Cats
Joint supplements can provide a lot of benefits for cats, especially cats who are in their golden years. Joint supplements are great because they help cats stay mobile and manage their pain. In other words, joint supplements could really improve your cat’s quality of life. Let’s take a look at the main benefits below:
Better mobility
One of the biggest benefits of joint supplements is that they can help reduce joint stiffness. Ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin support cartilage health and help keep your cat’s joints flexible.
Pain relief
Joint supplements can also help your cat manage pain that’s associated with joint issues. Many supplements contain anti-inflammatory ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and turmeric, which help reduce joint inflammation and ease pain.
Improved quality of life
By supporting joint health and reducing pain, joint supplements can significantly improve a cat’s quality of life. When cats are free from joint pain and stiffness, they’re more likely to stay active, playful, and engaged with their environment.
Protection against further joint damage
Joint supplements usually contain ingredients that help protect existing cartilage from further breakdown. For example, chondroitin sulfate works by inhibiting enzymes that degrade cartilage, while glucosamine supports the production of new cartilage. This can help slow down the progression of joint issues.
Support for overall health
Many joint supplements include additional vitamins and minerals that contribute to your kitty’s overall health. For example, ingredients like vitamin E, zinc, and manganese act as antioxidants and support different biological processes in your cat’s body.
Not only that, but omega-3 fatty acids, which are commonly found in these supplements, help a lot with joint inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help with heart and skin health, and keep your cat’s coat looking shiny and healthy.
How to Give Joint Supplements to Your Cat
Giving joint supplements to cats can be tricky since cats can be picky eaters. Here are some tips to make it easier:
Start small and slow
Always follow the directions on the label, but you don’t have to start with the full recommended dose right away. For example, if your cat’s ideal daily dose is 1 tsp, start with 1/4 tsp in the first week, then 1/2 tsp the next week, and gradually work up to the full dose.
Offer new options
Cats in the wild are open to trying new foods, so try introducing new protein sources, even just a small amount on top of their kibble. Raw food toppers are easy to find and can be a great way to add supplements to their diet. These toppers add extra moisture, which is important for cats, and they come with the benefits of a more natural diet.
Trick them with treats
If your cat has a favorite treat, try grinding it up in a blender or coffee grinder. Mix it with the supplement and a little water, and then pour it over your cat’s regular food. This can even work with kibble to mask the taste of the supplement.
Conclusion
At Under the Weather, our goal is to make choosing the right joint supplements for your cat (as well as other supplements for pets) as simple and stress-free as possible. We have a variety of great products available, so don’t hesitate to check out our wide selection. A healthy pet means a happier home, so why not give your furry friend the best care possible?
