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Arthritis is the inflammation
of a joint. It can occur in any joint and at any age.
Signs may include
the following:
Cold, sudden
weather changes and exercise may make the symptoms more noticeable.
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What
causes arthritis?
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The causes of
arthritis include: |
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When more than one
joint is involved, the condition is called polyarthritis. This
condition may be associated with systemic disease.
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How is Arthritis Diagnosed? |
Following a physical examination,
radiographs can be taken of the affected joint. In many cases,
blood tests will be done to identify conditions that might be related
to joint disease. Sometimes, samples of joint fluid are
collected to help establish the cause of the condition.
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How is Arthritis Treated? |
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Once arthritis is
present, it tends to be slowly progressive. The goal of therapy is to
make your cat more comfortable and to slow the progression of the
disease.
1. Environmental Modification
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Discourage large leaps up or down
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Encourage controlled spontaneous movement
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Do not make the cat's daily routine an
obstacle course
2. Maintain
Healthy Weight
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Control obesity (heavy cats)
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Multiple feedings of high-quality foods
(thin cats)
3. Pain Control
- Cosequin (Glucosamine hydrochloride
125mg, Chondroitin sulfate 100mg): 1/2 to 1 capsule daily
with food
- Aspirin: 10-20mg/kg every 48 hours (1/2
to 1 baby aspirin for a 10-pound cat every other day). May have
gastrointestinal side effects.
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 Notify
the clinic if any of the following occur:
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Your cat's discomfort increases
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Your cat develops new symptoms
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Your
cat is reluctant to eat or seems unusually thirsty
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