Now that you know what Osteoarthritis is and how to identify the signs in your cat, let’s cover how your vet will diagnose Osteoarthritis, what the treatment options are, and how you can ease your cats’ pain.

We’re here to give you all the tools you need to be an informed pet parent.

So, what’s next?

• Quick Guide to OA Diagnosis & Treatments in Cats
• How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?
• What Are The Osteoarthritis Treatments for Cats?
• What Treatments Do You Offer?
• What Products Do You Recommend for Cats?
• Where Can I Learn More?
• References

Quick Guide to OA Diagnosis & Treatments in Cats

Details aren’t for everyone (of course, if you want them, keep reading the entire blog!). If you want the most essential information, this section is for you. In this section, we’ll provide you with the essential information about osteoarthritis (OA) in cats, focusing on what you need to know to get this condition diagnosed and treated without getting bogged down in the details.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing osteoarthritis (OA) in cats can be challenging because they often hide signs of pain. A thorough evaluation by a veterinarian is essential, beginning with a comprehensive physical exam to assess posture, gait, and joint movement.

X-rays are commonly utilized to evaluate joint and bone changes associated with OA. While up to 90% of cats may show X-ray changes consistent with OA, only about 50% exhibit clinical signs. X-rays provide crucial insights into bony structures, but since they do not capture soft tissue damage, they must be interpreted alongside physical exam findings.

Additionally, lab work, including joint fluid analysis and blood tests, can help rule out other joint-related issues, such as infections or immune-mediated diseases. To aid the diagnostic process, pet parents can contribute valuable information through home videos and photos that capture their cat’s mobility and behavior. An online Osteoarthritis Assessment Form can also help track symptoms over time, allowing for more informed discussions with the veterinarian.

Treatment

Once diagnosed, effective OA treatment involves a multimodal approach across five key categories: owner education and lifestyle modification, joint support, joint inflammation management, pain management, and noninvasive therapeutics. It’s crucial to tailor the treatment plan to the specific symptoms, personality, and severity of OA in each cat while considering practical factors such as cost and owner capabilities. For example, reducing pain through medication can enhance mobility, which in turn aids in weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as excess weight places additional stress on already painful joints, exacerbating the condition.

Owner Education

• Owner involvement is vital in managing OA, starting with optimizing the cat’s diet. Joint-specific diets and certain supplements, particularly those rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, can support joint health and reduce inflammation. Weight management is also critical; studies indicate that approximately 60% of cats are overweight or obese, which worsens OA. Even modest weight loss of 6% to 18% can lead to significant improvements in mobility and comfort. Encouraging regular, gentle activities, such as interactive play and feeding puzzles, helps maintain muscle mass and joint stability without overexertion.
• A supportive home environment is crucial; pet parents should provide accessible litter boxes, food and water stations, and ramps or steps for easier navigation. Non-slip surfaces and orthopedic bedding can further enhance comfort.

Joint Support

• For joint support, Omega-3 fatty acids and certain supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, may benefit cats, although the evidence supporting their use is less robust than for dogs. Careful consultation with a veterinarian is necessary to determine the most appropriate joint support regimen, as not all products are created equal.

Joint Inflammation

• Managing joint inflammation presents unique challenges for cats, particularly due to the limited availability of approved nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While some medications are effective for dogs, no NSAIDs are specifically approved for cats, underscoring the importance of working closely with a veterinarian to find safe alternatives.

Pain Management

• Effective pain management is essential and may involve adjunctive medications such as amantadine, gabapentin, and tramadol, which can enhance overall quality of life.
• Natural remedies like CBD may also be used. To read more about CBD, check out our blog here.

Noninvasive Therapies

• Noninvasive therapies, including laser therapy and pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, offer additional options for pain relief. Laser therapy promotes healing and reduces inflammation, while PEMF therapy aids in joint function.

To read more about the treatments we provide for cats with OA, skip to this section.

To learn all the recent research about current diagnostics and treatments, continue reading this blog!

How is Osteoarthritis Diagnosed?

Osteoarthritis in cats can be difficult to diagnose because cats tend to hide signs of pain. Diagnosis requires a combination of observation, physical exams, and imaging. Timely diagnosis is key to managing pain and preventing further deterioration.

1. Evaluation

• Physical Exam: Your vet will assess your cat’s posture, gait, and joint movement. However, due to cats’ reluctance to show pain during exams, other methods such as activity assessments may be used.
• Joint Palpation: Vets will feel for abnormalities such as joint thickening, fluid buildup (effusion), and muscle atrophy during the exam.
• During the physical exam, the vet evaluates:
  • Joint Sensitivity: Cats may pull away, tense up, or avoid being touched if the joints are painful.
  • Muscle Mass: Muscle loss around the joints can signal disuse due to pain.
  • Joint Mechanics: The vet will assess:
    • Crepitus: Grinding in the joint due to bone friction.
    • Range of Motion: Limited mobility in stiff or painful joints.
    • Effusion: Fluid buildup within the joint.
    • Instability: Abnormal movement indicating joint looseness or weakness.

2. X-Rays

• X-rays are often used to assess joint and bone changes in cats with osteoarthritis. Up to 90% of cats may show X-ray changes consistent with OA, but only 50% of these cats exhibit clinical signs. X-rays provide important clues about bony structures but don’t show soft tissue damage, so they must be combined with physical exam findings.

3. Advanced Imaging

• If X-rays don’t provide sufficient detail, your vet may recommend advanced imaging:
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Gives detailed images of soft tissues like ligaments and cartilage.
  • CT (Computed Tomography): Particularly useful for evaluating complex joints.
  • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive technique that allows the vet to view the inside of the joint.

4. Lab Work

• Joint Fluid Analysis & Blood Tests: These tests may be done to rule out other causes of joint issues like infection or immune-mediated diseases.

5. Pet Parent Participation

• Home Videos and Photos: Since cats are often reluctant to show signs of pain in the clinic, taking videos of your cat’s mobility and behavior at home can help with diagnosis. For example, if your cat is struggling to jump onto furniture or hesitating to use the litter box, videos of these behaviors can be highly informative.
• Assessment Form: Use our online Osteoarthritis Assessment Form to evaluate your cat’s symptoms. This form helps you monitor your cat’s mobility, pain levels, and behavioral changes over time, giving you a clearer picture of their condition. Fill out the form before visiting your vet to help guide the diagnostic process. After taking the assessment, if you select any of the images or score 3 or lower on any of the behavioral questions, it could indicate your pet is experiencing pain. Be sure to discuss these items with your veterinarian.

What Are The Osteoarthritis Treatments for Cats?

Osteoarthritis (OA) treatments for cats fall into five general categories:

1. Owner Education & Lifestyle Modification
2. Joint Support
3. Joint Inflammation
4. Pain Management
5. Noninvasive Therapeutics.

 

Successfully managing OA requires a multimodal approach, which means that treatment incorporates a combination of therapies that work together to minimize pain, slow the progression of the disease, and improve your cat’s quality of life. A personalized treatment plan is key, considering your cat’s specific symptoms, personality, and the severity of their OA, along with what you can realistically implement, the cost, and expected outcomes. These therapies are interconnected — for example, reducing pain with medication can enable your cat to move more easily, which in turn helps with weight management. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight decreases stress on their joints, ultimately reducing the need for pain medications and supporting their overall mobility and comfort.

 

 

Treatment 1: Owner Education & Lifestyle Modification

Managing osteoarthritis (OA) begins with you, the pet parent. Your involvement is crucial in helping your cat navigate their OA journey. Here are five key areas where your actions can make a significant difference: 1. Diet Optimization 2. Weight Management 3. Staying Active & Modifying Exercise Appropriately 4. Therapeutic Exercise 5. Home Proof. We will discuss each of these areas in detail.

Diet Optimization

An appropriate diet is essential for cats with OA. Joint-specific diets and certain supplements can play a vital role in therapy. Diets enriched with Omega-3 fatty acids serve as natural anti-inflammatories and can help maintain your cat’s body weight, muscle mass, and mobility by supporting joint cartilage. Consult with your veterinarian about whether a veterinary-prescribed diet may be beneficial for your pet. Therapeutic diets make it easy to include joint supplements in your cat’s daily routine. Hill’s Prescription Kidney and Mobility Diet supports both arthritis and chronic kidney disease, with omega-3s to reduce inflammation and glucosamine and chondroitin for cartilage health. Similarly, Royal Canin Mobility JS contains New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel and antioxidants to improve joint health and increase activity in cats with arthritis.

We offer Nutrition Consultations (more on that below), but also recommend all pets download the Healthy Pet Connect app (iOS & GooglePlay). This app acts much like a human food journal (or like the equivalent of MyFitnessPal), allowing you to track your pet’s weight and food intake. We especially like this app because it connects directly to our clinic, allowing us to monitor your pet’s health daily.

Weight Management

Weight management is one of the most critical aspects of controlling OA in cats. Studies show that around 60% of cats are overweight or obese, which exacerbates OA by putting extra stress on painful joints. Reducing a cat’s weight can help slow the progression of joint degeneration and significantly enhance mobility. Maintaining a healthy body condition, through dietary changes and controlled feeding, can improve OA symptoms and prolong your cat’s life. Even a modest weight loss of 6% to 18% can lead to noticeable improvements in mobility and comfort.

We offer a Weight Loss program (more on that below), but also recommend all pets have a reliable and validated pet scale in their home.  We recommend the Healthy Pet Connect pet and food scales. These are provided to all pets enrolled in our program, but can also be purchased here.  An automatic pet feeder is also a great way to ensure portions are controlled.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Staying Active & Modifying Exercise Appropriately

Regular activity is crucial for managing OA in cats, as it helps maintain muscle mass and improve joint stability. Engaging your cat in gentle, low-impact activities, such as interactive play with toys, can be beneficial. Encouraging movement through feeding puzzles or play sessions can keep your cat active without overexerting them. It’s important to tailor the level of activity to your cat’s individual needs and consult with a veterinarian to determine what type of exercise is most suitable for them. For a list of our favorite cat activity products, visit here.

We also provide 24/7 pet monitoring using the Maven AI Collar. This collar not only monitors your pet’s activity, but also measures heart rate, sleep, and other health factors that could indicate a need for a veterinarian visit. This app connects directly to our clinic, so we can monitor your pet at all times.  For a limited time, you can get the Maven AI Collar for free by visiting Maven Pet and using the coupon code WOOF at checkout.

Therapeutic Exercise

While hydrotherapy is not typically used for cats, other forms of physical rehabilitation can be effective. Techniques like acupuncture, massage, and passive range-of-motion exercises can help enhance joint mobility, decrease discomfort, and improve overall well-being. A veterinary rehabilitation professional can design a therapeutic program specific to your cat’s needs, ensuring they receive appropriate care.

Home Proof

Creating a comfortable environment for cats with osteoarthritis is crucial for their well-being. Accessible litter boxes are essential; choose ones with low sides for easy entry and exit, and place multiple boxes in consistent locations around the house. Additionally, ensure that food and water bowls are within easy reach to prevent unnecessary strain.

Supporting your cat’s mobility includes adding ramps or steps to access favorite spots, such as beds or perches, while using slip-resistant surfaces to enhance stability on slippery floors. Finally, providing supportive bedding, like orthopedic or heated beds, can significantly improve your cat’s comfort and help alleviate joint pain.

Stay tuned for another blog with more tips to pain-proof your cat’s home.

Treatment 2: Joint Support

Supporting normal joint function, especially during the early stages of OA is essential to delay disease progression. While joint support may not necessarily reduce inflammation or prevent pain, it certainly does help. We recommend joint supplements be used early, before damage has occurred (before any joint surgery, any diagnosed arthritic condition), and in high risk pets (obesity, athletes, breeds at risk for hip or elbow dysplasia, etc). Recommend joint support supplements and nutraceuticals include: Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Glucosamine and Chondroitin, and Green-Lipped Muscles. These supplements are safe, recommended by most certified veterinary orthopedic surgeons, and can be used with any other medication as well.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

When it comes to joint support for cats with osteoarthritis (OA), the approach is somewhat similar to that for dogs, though there are important distinctions to consider. Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily sourced from fish oil, can play a significant role in reducing inflammation and improving joint health in cats with OA. The recommended dosage typically starts at around 100-200 mg of EPA/DHA per day. While fish oil can benefit many cats, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian before introducing it to ensure it’s appropriate for the individual cat, especially if they are overweight.

Be sure to read labels closely for mg of EPA per serving, as products have a wide range. Research suggests Omega-3s begin to decrease inflammation throughout the body at 20mg/lb EPA and 12mg/lb DHA, which may require an extra dose of the product you select, depending on their concentration. If possible, always split the dosage into two separate portions throughout the day. Fish oil has no other drug interactions. But, it can cause diarrhea at higher doses. So, it’s important to start at a lower dose and increase slowly.

Due to high-heat rendering and pet food processing, most of the essential fatty acids in processed pet food have been destroyed. That’s why we recommend using a supplement or adding a natural source. Natural sources of Omega-3 Fatty acids include sardines, anchovies, and deep ocean sources (salmon, krill, squid, mussels, etc). Be sure to discuss these options with your veterinarian before adding them to your pet’s nutrition plan.

Glucosamine & Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are less commonly used in cats compared to dogs, primarily due to a lack of robust research and the variability in how cats respond to these compounds. Some products specifically designed for cats may include glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, but their efficacy in managing OA symptoms is not as well established. It’s advisable to seek products recommended by veterinarians and closely monitor the cat’s response to any new supplement.

In dogs, depending on the product, the recommended dose is generally 900mg of Glucosamine and 350mg of Chondroitin. The effect may take up to 6-8 weeks, but the dose may be reduced after the desired effect is seen (which can help you save cost). Because these supplements are intended to support the joint, they should be used early, before any joint damage has occurred (i.e., before any joint surgery or an official diagnosis of arthritis) or in high risk pets (e.g., obese, highly athletic, or breeds at risk for hip or elbow dysplasia).

Green-Lipped Mussel

Green-lipped mussel is another promising supplement that contains unique omega-3 fatty acids and has been shown to reduce inflammation while supporting joint health. It may help improve mobility and alleviate discomfort associated with OA. However, dosages for cats can vary, so it’s essential to follow the recommendations on the product label or those given by a veterinarian.

Note About Quality & Efficacy of Supplements & Nutraceuticals

As with dogs, not all joint supplements for cats are created equal. It’s vital to look for products verified by reputable organizations, such as the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), which ensures the product contains what it claims. Since these products are not regulated by the FDA, we only recommend products backed by research. You may also want to consul Consumer Lab. It’s important to remember that these manufacturers conduct research using their own patented ingredients, which means it does it directly translate to other treats or chews. That’s why we recommend specific products to you – because we know they’ve been tested and do what they claim to do.

If My Pet’s Food Contains Glucosamine & Chondroitin, Do They Still Need a Supplement?

Yes! By law glucosamine cannot be added to pet food to a level that would be therapeutic. However, it is allowable for food to contain Glucosamine at sub-therapeutic levels. Adding a supplement is the only way around this. Used alone, at appropriate doses or in conjunction with high levels of EPA (one of the fish oils) at 20mg/lb, the combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, and Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiable (ASU) oil can be as effective as non-steroidal inflammatory drug (like Rimadyl® or Previcox®), if used in the early course of disease. And, if used early enough, these supplements may delay or reduce the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs. Very few pet treats contain enough of these active ingredients to be therapeutic, that’s why we recommend specific products.

Products We Recommend

The majority of these products have been researched and validated, but be sure to discuss your options with your veterinarian.

• Myos Muscle Formula: Contains Green-Lipped Mussels and Omega-3 Fatty Acids. In a recent study at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, this product has been shown to increase lean muscle mass in cats without any negative side effects. Visit their website and use discount code WDOW20 for 20% off!
• YuMove Advanced 360 for Cats: Contains Green-Lipped Mussels, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Glucosamine, & Chondroitin. Also contains manganese, which supports collagen formation in cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. And contains hyaluronic acid, a major component of synovial fluid, to help cushion and lubricate your pet’s joints. Clinical evidence is provided (here and here). Although you may find a similar product by YuMove on Amazon, we recommend the 360 supplement as it’s a stronger, more effective product for cats. We offer prescriptions from our online pharmacy.
• Dasuquin for Cats (soft chews or sprinkles): A long-time researched product containing omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables, and decaffeinated green tea extract. Research in live pets (vs studies done with cartilage cells only) show that Dasuquin affects lameness scores similar or better than nonsteroidal drugs like Rimadyl.
• Nutramax (soft chews or sprinkle): Also contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Laboratory tests show these products can reduce inflammation and slow progression of joint disease and joint cartilage degeneration. It’s important to remember that these manufacturers conduct research using their own patented ingredients, which means it does it directly translate to other treats or chews. That’s why we recommend specific products to you – because we know they’ve been tested and do what they claim to do.
• Vetoquinol Flexadin Advanced Joint Supplement with UC-II: A veterinarian-developed and researched product containing clinically-backed Undenatured Collagen Type II, which works differently than glucosamine and chondroitin to help provide joint support for your pets. UC-II works with your pet’s immune system to reduce soreness and improve discomfort created by joint degeneration. When degenerative joint disease occurs, the damaged collagen molecules are released into the synovial fluid. This stimulates an autoimmune response against the Type II Collagen, causing even more damage to the joints hyaline cartilage, furthering joint degeneration, cartilage damage, and pain. UC-II turns off this autoimmune response.
• Native Pet Fish Oil: Contains Omega 3 EPA and DHA from wild-caught Alaskan salmon and pollock (920mg per 1 TSP). We like the limited ingredients ( wild-caught pollock oil, wheat germ oil, wild-caught salmon oil, biotin, mixed tocopherol for a preservative) and recyclable container.

Treatment 3: Joint Inflammation

For cats, managing joint inflammation associated with osteoarthritis presents unique challenges, particularly due to the limited availability of approved nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While medications such as carprofen and meloxicam are effective in dogs, there are currently no NSAIDs approved specifically for use in cats. This underscores the importance of working closely with a veterinarian to find safe and effective alternatives, as some human NSAIDs, like acetaminophen, can be fatal to cats. Research is ongoing regarding the safety and dosing of NSAIDs for OA in felines, but the use of NSAIDs in cats is typically reserved for acute pain and must be approached with caution.

Treatment 4: Pain Management

Effective pain management is crucial for cats suffering from osteoarthritis (OA). Various adjunctive pain medications can be employed alongside traditional treatments to improve the overall quality of life for these pets. Medications like amantadine, gabapentin, tramadol, and corticosteroids can help alleviate pain when used in conjunction with NSAIDs.

Oral Pain Medications

Gabapentin is one such medication that inhibits calcium channels, leading to a decrease in excitatory neurotransmitter release. While it may not be a potent analgesic on its own, its inclusion in a multimodal approach can help reduce overall pain experience. Some evidence suggests it may be beneficial for managing pain in cats, although its efficacy for chronic pain remains less well studied.

Amantadine has been recognized for its potential in managing chronic pain when combined with NSAIDs. This medication acts similarly to ketamine and has been shown to be effective, though the dosing may need to be adjusted based on individual needs.

Tramadol, while sometimes prescribed for cats, has shown mixed results regarding its effectiveness in managing OA pain. As with dogs, its analgesic properties may be limited in felines due to differences in metabolism.

Joint Injections

An exciting advancement in pain management for both dogs and cats is the use of monoclonal antibody therapies such as Solensia. This treatment, specifically designed for cats, targets nerve growth factor (NGF), a key player in pain signaling associated with OA. Administered as a monthly injection, making it easier to pet owners to manage their cat’s condition, Solensia has been shown to significantly improve pain levels and quality of life for cats with OA. According to Zoetis, the manufacturer of Solensia, the results of a three-month study indicated that 77% of cat owners reported improvement in signs of pain when their cats were treated monthly. Solensia takes effect within 3-7+ days from the initial injection. However, most cat owners report the most noticeable effects after 3 months of injections.

Watch these Before and After Solensia videos provided by the manufacturer (Zoetis), to see how it helps cats with OA.

For more information about Solensia, visit the product website or continue reading to see how we utilize this treatment.

Natural Remedies

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychotropic compound derived from hemp that has gained interest for its potential therapeutic effects in animals. Recent research indicates that healthy cats can tolerate long-term daily feeding of CBD at a dosage of 4 mg per kg of body weight, with no significant health differences compared to a placebo group over six months. While more studies are needed, initial findings suggest that CBD may help manage pain and improve quality of life, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis. In dogs, research has shown that CBD can significantly reduce pain and enhance activity levels, indicating its potential as an effective pain management option for cats as well. To learn more about CBD for pets, read our blog here.

We recommend ElleVet. ElleVet is research-backed and has 3 products available for cats. Depending on your cats preference and your preferred method of administration, you have options. Choose between their CBD oil, CBD soft gels, or their CBD cat paste (specifically designed for cats that are picky eaters). Use code TRYELLEVET-104 at checkout to receive free shipping on us!

Pet Releaf also offers a Liposomal formula, which may also make it easier to administer to your cat.

Treatment 5: Noninvasive Therapy

For cats with osteoarthritis, noninvasive therapies like laser therapy and pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy can provide beneficial pain relief and support healing.

Class 4 Laser Therapy

Laser therapy works by directing light at specific frequencies into the tissues, promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation. This technique can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in cats, with treatment sessions typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes. Although research in cats is limited compared to dogs, the use of laser therapy has shown promising results for various conditions.

Cats will sit for laser therapy (~5 minutes) without the use of a sedative. Check out our blog to learn more about how we utilize Class 4 laser therapy or continue reading to see how we utilize this treatment. In the meantime, you can visit these manufacturers for more information:

• Companion Animal Health (our brand)
• Luma

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

PEMF therapy, which uses low-frequency electromagnetic fields, may also aid in reducing inflammation and pain while promoting healing. While definitive clinical evidence specific to cats remains sparse, these noninvasive options offer safe and effective alternatives for managing osteoarthritis symptoms in feline patients.

Check out our blog to learn more about how we utilize PEMF or continue reading to see how we utilize this treatment. In the meantime, you can visit these manufacturers for more information:

• Assisi (our brand)
• Respond Systems (another one of our brands)

What Treatments Do You Offer?

WoofDoctor on Wheels provides the following: Solensia Injections (Cats only), In-Home Class IV Laser Therapy, PEMF Therapy, Nutrition and Weight Management, as well as Custom Quality of Life and Geriatric Planning.

Solensia Injections

Solensia is an FDA-approved and revolutionary treatment specifically designed for cats with OA. Like Librela for dogs, Solensia targets NGF to effectively reduce pain associated with OA. However, it is formulated to meet the unique physiological needs of cats. These injections can significantly improve mobility and comfort for cats with OA, allowing them to engage in normal activities with less pain. This medication is administered via injection by either Dr. Cifranick or his Technician Team once a month. According to Zoetis, the manufacturer of Solensia, the results of a three-month study indicated that 77% of cat owners reported improvement in signs of pain when their cats were treated monthly. Solensia takes effect within 3-7+ days from the initial injection. However, most cat owners report the most noticeable effects after 3 months of injections.

Watch these Before and After Solensia videos provided by the manufacturer (Zoetis), to see how it helps cats with OA.

In-Home Class 4 Laser Therapy (Tech Team)

Class 4 laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses intense light beams to stimulate cell regeneration and increase blood circulation in the affected areas. This process, known as photobiomodulation, helps reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and accelerate the healing of tissues. By offering this service in-home, pets can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of laser therapy in a comfortable and stress-free environment, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. Dr. Cifranick must evaluate your pet to determine the proper treatment plan, but typical treatments are administered by the Technician Team using a Pegasus Class 4 Laser 2x-3x weekly, depending on severity. Depending on the severity or stage of OA, treatments can last 2-6 weeks and are then followed by maintenance as needed. This service may be packaged with PEMF to improve outcomes for your cat.

Learn more about how Laser Therapy works, why it’s our most popular noninvasive pain relief therapy, and to see our prices here on our blog.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

PEMF therapy uses electromagnetic fields to promote natural healing processes in the body. It helps to restore the electrical balance of cells, which can be disrupted in OA. This therapy can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve overall joint function. PEMF is a gentle, non-invasive option that can be used regularly to manage OA symptoms and improve a pet’s mobility and quality of life. Dr. Cifranick must evaluate your pet to determine the proper treatment plan, but if PEMF is determined to be a suitable solution for your dog, an Assisi Loop or Respond Systems PEMF Bed will be prescribed through our online pharmacy. You will be taught how to administer treatment to your pet, at home, and treatments will typically be conducted once to twice daily for 15 minutes at a time. Treatments can often be done while the pet is resting or sleeping and may be packaged with In-Home Class 4 Laser Therapy to improve outcomes for your dog.

You can read more about the brands we recommend:

• Assissi on their website, through our online pharmacy, or on Amazon (Loop, Bed).
• Respond Systems on their website or available PEMF beds.

Learn more about how PEMF works, why Dr Doug uses it for his own pets, and to see our prices here on our blog.

Nutrition Consultation (Weight Management)

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing OA. Overweight pets experience more stress on their joints, exacerbating the symptoms of OA. A tailored nutrition plan focused on weight management can significantly reduce this stress, slow the progression of OA, and alleviate symptoms. Following a referral from Dr. Cifranick, our Technician Team conducts a Nutrition Consultation and measures your pet’s current weight, Body Condition Score, and optimal diet for their pet’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients to support joint health and maintain a healthy weight. Pets who qualify for our Healthy Weight Management Program will be set up with in-home pet scales and receive daily remote monitoring, weekly Technician Team check-ins, and routine consultations with Dr. Cifranick.

All our Weight Management clients also connect to our clinic through the Healthy Pet Connect app (iOS & GooglePlay). This app acts much like a human food journal (or like the equivalent of MyFitnessPal), allowing you to track your pet’s weight, food intake, and exercise daily. Our vet techs monitor your pet’s progress daily and reach out when an appointment may be necessary.

Custom Quality of Life/Geriatric Planning

As pets age, their needs change, especially when dealing with chronic conditions like OA. Custom quality of life and geriatric planning involves assessing the specific needs of elderly pets and devising a comprehensive plan that addresses pain management, mobility, nutrition, and overall well-being. Depending on the exact needs of your pet, Dr. Cifranick will either conduct the initial appointment via telemedicine or in-person. Bloodwork may be performed at this time or recommended through the Technician Team with interpretation by Dr. Cifranick. Dr. Cifranick will determine whether any of the aforementioned treatments are appropriate and may also discuss other medications, supplements, or products to help mobility. This personalized approach ensures that aging pets can enjoy their later years with the highest possible quality of life, despite the challenges of OA.

We highly recommend most of these clients sign up for our 24/7 Pet Monitoring Service with the MavenAI collar.This collar not only monitors your pet’s activity, but also measures heart rate, sleep, and other health factors that could indicate a need for a veterinarian visit. This app connects directly to our clinic, so we can monitor your pet at all times.  For a limited time, you can get the Maven AI Collar for free by visiting Maven Pet and using the coupon code WOOF at checkout.

Our Approach

We understand that each pet is unique, especially when facing the challenges of osteoarthritis (OA). Once a diagnosis is made, we focus on creating a personalized pain management plan that considers the specific stage of OA, your pet’s individual behaviors and quirks, and your family’s lifestyle. Our primary goals are to alleviate pain, slow disease progression, enhance mobility, and ensure you have many more years of love and joy.

We take a multimodal approach, considering  your pet’s age, current condition, pain level, behavior, and preferences, along with suitable treatments and any practical limitations. Because we’re a mobile clinic, we come to you. This allows us to see your pet in their natural environment and make specific recommendations that can fit seamlessly into your daily routine. With this approach, we often create special relationships with our patients, knowing how to make our recommendations more actionable and realistic. This is an ongoing process, providing multiple avenues for monitoring your pet’s progress and making necessary adjustments to their care. We encourage open communication and support, guiding you on when to reach out if you notice any changes in your pet’s condition. This collaborative approach ensures that we provide the best care possible, enhancing your pet’s quality of life as they navigate the challenges of osteoarthritis.

What Products Do You Recommend for Cats?

Home Modifications:

• Non-slip rugs to improve traction on hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors
• Landing pads in areas where cats may jump down
• Steps, shelves, and ramps to assist cats in getting to elevated places (beds, couches, etc). Make sure the steps are non-slip and wide, so your pet won’t lose their balance or fall off.
• Easily accessible litterbox, food, and water. Make sure your cat does not have to climb stairs to access these items and ensure no jumping is required for access. The litterbox should be easy to step in and out of. Raised water and food bowls may help cats if their elbows, knees, neck, or back are sore, preventing them from having to crouch down to eat or drink.
• Horizontal cat scratchers help prevent pain in hind legs, so pets don’t have to stand and reach up to scratch. We like Petkaray, SmartKat, and this 4-pack of cardboard scratchers.
• A supportive, orthopedic bed made for joint support. We recommend Big Barker’s junior series. This brand is made in the USA and has conducted research with the University of Pennsylvania demonstrating its effectiveness for dogs with OA. The Big Barker bed reduced joint pain and stiffness, improved gait, and let to improved nighttime rest in dogs with arthritis.

Cat Activity Products:

• 24/7 Pet Monitoring with MavenAI Collar: This collar not only monitors your pet’s activity, but also measures heart rate, sleep, and other health factors that could indicate a need for a veterinarian visit. This app connects directly to our clinic, so we can monitor your pet at all times.  For a limited time, you can get the Maven AI Collar for free by visiting Maven Pet and using the coupon code WOOF at checkout.
• Tractive Cat GPS: For outdoor cats, we recommend a true GPS tracker (works independently of your Bluetooth or cellular data). This extends their limit (e.g., AirTag is only about 33 feet), which means no matter how far your pet gos, you’ll have their location. This device also monitors your pet’s activity. With live tracking and location history, you can follow your cat’s every step in real-time on your phone, seeing where they’ve been and what they’ve been up to. The subscription plan starts at $5 per month. The virtual fence feature allows you to mark safe zones, like your garden, and get instant notifications if your cat leaves or returns. All-day activity monitoring tracks active time, rest, and calories burned, helping you set fitness goals and keep your cat in great shape. Ideal for cats weighing over 6.5 pounds. It’s durable, has a long battery life, an intuitive app, and if your pet loses their tracker, Tractive will send you a new one for free!
• Motion Activated Cat Toy: The Valonii cat toy offers a long-lasting motor, motion activation, USB rechargeable battery, and three play modes. It includes energy-saving auto-shutdown and combines rotating butterfly and hide-and-seek games to keep cats active.
• Automatic Feather Cat Toy: The BENTOPAL cat toy is a self-operating robot that entertains cats, encourages exercise with varied movements, and includes interchangeable accessories for play variety. It has a long battery life, and works on different floors.
• Wloom: Keep your cat entertained even when you’re not at home. With a simple poke, your cat can activate the ball itself.

Diet & Weight Management:

• Healthy Pet Connect app (iOS & GooglePlay): This app acts much like a human food journal (or like the equivalent of MyFitnessPal), allowing you to track your pet’s weight and food intake. We especially like this app because it connects directly to our clinic, allowing us to monitor your pet’s health daily.
• Healthy Pet Connect Pet Scale & Food Scale: Your pet’s weight is the most important health metric you can obtain. We highly recommend all pets have a reliable and validated pet scale in their home. This scale is specifically designed with small pets in mind (unlike many baby scales available online). These are provided to all pets enrolled in our program, but can also be purchased here.
• PortionPro RX Automatic Pet Feeder: Control portions to prevent or reverse pet obesity. Save money by not overfeeding.

Joint Support Supplements for Cats:

• Myos Muscle Formula: Contains Green-Lipped Muscles and Omega-3 Fatty Acids. In a recent study at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, this product has been shown to increase lean muscle mass in cats without any negative side effects. Visit their website and use discount code WDOW20 for 20% off!
• YuMove Advanced 360 for Cats: Contains Green-Lipped Muscles, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Glucosamine, & Chondroitin. Also contains manganese, which supports collagen formation in cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. And contains hyaluronic acid, a major component of synovial fluid, to help cushion and lubricate your pet’s joints. Clinical evidence is provided (here and here).
• Dasuquin for Cats (soft chews or sprinkles): A long-time researched product containing omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables, and decaffeinated green tea extract. Research in live pets (vs studies done with cartilage cells only) show that Dasuquin affects lameness scores similar or better than nonsteroidal drugs like Rimadyl.
• Nutramax (soft chews or sprinkle): Also contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Laboratory tests show these products can reduce inflammation and slow progression of joint disease and joint cartilage degeneration. It’s important to remember that these manufacturers conduct research using their own patented ingredients, which means it does it directly translate to other treats or chews. That’s why we recommend specific products to you – because we know they’ve been tested and do what they claim to do.
• Vetoquinol Flexadin Advanced Joint Supplement with UC-II: A veterinarian-developed and researched product containing clinically-backed Undenatured Collagen Type II, which works differently than glucosamine and chondroitin to help provide joint support for your pets. UC-II works with your pet’s immune system to reduce soreness and improve discomfort created by joint degeneration. When degenerative joint disease occurs, the damaged collagen molecules are released into the synovial fluid. This stimulates an autoimmune response against the Type II Collagen, causing even more damage to the joints hyaline cartilage, furthering joint degeneration, cartilage damage, and pain. UC-II turns off this autoimmune response.
• Native Pet Fish Oil: Contains Omega 3 EPA and DHA from wild-caught Alaskan salmon and pollock (920mg per 1 TSP). We like the limited ingredients (wild-caught pollock oil, wheat germ oil, wild-caught salmon oil, biotin, mixed tocopherol for a preservative) and recyclable container.

CBD:

• ElleVet is research-backed and has 3 products available for cats. Depending on your cats preference and your preferred method of administration, you have options. Choose between their CBD oil, CBD soft gels, or their CBD cat paste (specifically designed for cats that are picky eaters). Use code TRYELLEVET-104 at checkout to receive free shipping on us!
• Pet Releaf also offers a Liposomal formula, which may also make it easier to administer to your cat.

In-Home Therapy:

• PEMF Loop: The Assisi Loop® is a Non-Pharmaceutical Anti-inflammatory Device (NPAID™) that effectively reduces inflammation, an essential first step in healing. Safe for all animals, it can be used alone or with your veterinarian’s treatment plan. This portable, easy-to-use device allows for at-home care. The 10 cm Loop is ideal for small animals, extremities, and small wounds, while the 20 cm Loop suits large animals or the core areas of small animals. We offer prescribed loops on our online pharmacy, but it is also available on Amazon.
• PEMF Beds: PEMF Therapy Systems target tissue to reduce pain and inflammation, and accelerate healing for dogs and cats suffering from conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, muscle and ligament injuries, fractures, neurological conditions, and age-related stiffness. The unique ability of PEMF to penetrate fur, skin, bandages, and bone allows it to reach deep into joints and muscles, stimulating circulation and healing. The treatment is imperceptible to the pet, often resulting in noticeable improvements within two weeks, with many pets showing immediate benefits in mobility and comfort. Respond Systems has a series of affordable beds available on their website. Assisi also offers various sizes available on Amazon, but these are more expensive.

Where Can I Learn More?

To take our online pain assessment here.

Read more on our blog to learn:

• Signs, Prevalence, & Risk of OA in cats.
• Signs, Prevalence, & Risk of OA in dogs.
• How OA is diagnosed & treated in dogs.
• Everything You Need to Know About CBD
• How Laser Therapy Works & Why It’s Our Most Popular Pain Relief Service
• How PEMF Therapy Works & Why Dr Doug Uses It For His Pets
• Why Your Pets Weight Could Add or Subtract Years of Life

To see all the products we recommend to help ease your cat’s pain and delay progression of OA:

• Joint Products for Cats
• Joint Products for Cats & Dogs
• Activity Products for Cats
• Automatic Feeders for Cats
• Food & Pet Scales for Cats & Dogs
• 24/7 Remote Monitoring for Cats & Dogs

If you’d like to schedule an appointment or discuss joint, osteoarthritis, or pain concerns for your pet, please call or text us at (843) 966-3362. You can also schedule an appointment online.

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