Cats hide pain well, but arthritis often leaves visible clues for their owners. Find out how to spot the signs of arthritis in younger and older cats.
In this article:
- What age do cats usually get arthritis?
- Do younger cats get arthritis?
- What are the early signs to watch out for?
- How to spot physical signs of arthritis in cats
- Physical signs of arthritis in cats: a checklist
- How your cat’s behaviour can reveal arthritis
- Behavioural signs of arthritis in cats: a checklist
Osteoarthritis is a painful, progressive joint condition that affects cats much like it does humans. It begins when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints starts to wear away, leaving bones to rub directly against each other. Once-smooth surfaces become rough and uneven, causing friction and inflammation which makes joints stiff and sore.
Arthritis isn’t curable, but early detection can make a massive difference to a cat’s quality of life. Spotting the signs and starting treatment sooner can ease pain, slow progression and help your cat stay comfortable and active for years to come. With the right care and adjustments, many cats with arthritis continue to live long, happy and playful lives.
What age do cats usually get arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is much more common in older cats, but isn’t limited to old age, and its onset can start surprisingly early. Studies show that around 60% of cats over six years old1 already showed signs of arthritis on X-rays, rising to up to 90% in cats over 12 years old.2
Genetics, past injuries, obesity and certain joint conditions can all trigger earlier onset. That’s why any cat showing changes in movement or behaviour, no matter their age, deserves a closer look.
Symptoms of arthritis are similar to normal ageing signs, so can often go unnoticed. Cats that move less, jump lower or sleep more can often be written off as simply ‘getting old’ rather than identified as potential signs of arthritis.
Knowing what to look for and working with your vet early can make a big difference. While arthritis isn’t reversible or curable, pain control, gentle exercise, weight management and changes you can make at home can all improve comfort and mobility for your cat.
Do younger cats get arthritis?
While osteoarthritis is more common in older cats, younger ones can also develop joint disease. In fact, several types of arthritis can affect cats of all ages, often triggered by infection, injury or immune system disorders.
Septic (infectious) arthritis can follow a wound or spread from another infection, leading to sudden lameness, joint swelling and pain. Immune-mediated arthritis, though rarer, causes inflammation across multiple joints when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Both conditions can appear in otherwise healthy young cats.
Younger cats may also develop secondary osteoarthritis after trauma, orthopaedic surgery and congenital problems such as hip dysplasia, or ligament injuries that destabilise joints.
Because arthritis worsens over time, any change in mobility, behaviour or comfort should prompt a vet visit. Research from International Cat Care1 shows that early diagnosis and treatment can slow progression and prevent long-term damage, which means your cat could live a happier, more active life.
What are the early signs to watch out for?
Spotting arthritis in your cat can be tricky. Cats are agile, adaptable and – by nature `- masters at hiding discomfort. Even when they’re in pain, they’ll often mask it by adjusting how they move or behave.
The first signs can be subtle. Keep an eye out for any unexplained changes in your cat’s behaviour or physical condition, such as getting slower, more irritable or losing enthusiasm for play.
You might also notice your cat struggling with everyday activities, such as missing the litter tray, grooming less effectively or hesitating before jumping onto furniture. If you’re unsure, take short videos of your cat walking, climbing or jumping. Comparing these over time can help you spot changes. Because cats generally behave differently in the vet’s clinic, these videos can also help your vet understand the changes in behaviour or movement.
Some of the signs of arthritis are physical, while others are behavioural. You might notice changes in how your cat moves, rests or reacts to touch, but their mood and habits can shift as well. Let’s look at each in more detail to give you the best chance of spotting that something’s not right as early as possible.
How to spot physical signs of arthritis in cats
It’s worth remembering that cats are experts at concealing pain, so you need to pay close attention to their movement and appearance.
Stiffness – when it comes to movement, stiffness or lameness might be the most noticeable change, but it’s rarely constant. You may notice your cat hesitating before jumping, moving with a stiffer gait (walking) or not climbing as high as they used to. Using the stairs, cat flap or litter tray can become more of a struggle and they might have more toilet ‘accidents’ around the house.
Sleeping more – a naturally energetic cat might seem unusually tired or lethargic.
Weight loss – physical appearance can also tell a story. You might notice weight loss, more prominent bones or swollen joints. Another sign is a loss of muscle tone around the hips and back legs.
Poor grooming – cats in pain often neglect grooming, leaving their fur matted, especially around the back, legs or base of the tail. If your cat self-soothes by licking tender joints, then overgrooming can lead to bald patches or stained fur.