As our cats age, their risk of arthritis increases. In fact, veterinarians estimate that over 90% of cats over the age of 10 have some degree of arthritis. That’s why finding a high-quality cat joint supplement is so important—it supports joint health in younger cats and can improve quality of life as they enter their golden years.
Why Cat Joint Health Deserves Attention
Unlike dogs, cats are masters at hiding pain. In the wild, their small size would make them vulnerable, so they instinctively mask signs of weakness. While this is a survival strategy, it makes detecting joint pain or arthritis in domestic cats much harder.
Signs of joint issues in cats are often subtle and may include:
- Not jumping as much as they used to
- Playing less
- Sleeping more
- Increased stiffness when getting up
- Changes in grooming habits
Even attentive pet parents may miss these gradual early signs, meaning cats could suffer unnecessary pain and joint deterioration before problems become obvious.
Proactive joint support is key. Providing a high-quality cat joint supplement before signs of arthritis appear can protect joints and delay—or even minimize—damage.
What Causes Joint Issues in Cats?
Joint problems in cats can result from multiple factors:
- Age-related wear and tear
- Genetics
- Autoimmune issues
- Previous injuries (sprains, fractures)
- Being overweight
- Low activity levels
- Inflammation
- Nutritional deficiencies
Not all of these are preventable, but nutritional deficiencies and chronic inflammation can be addressed.
A well-balanced diet with anti-inflammatory ingredients supports joint health and can help relieve arthritis symptoms, but it is not a cure. Conversely, unbalanced diets can accelerate joint problems.
Even commercially-made cat foods, while meeting standard nutritional guidelines, often have more Omega-6 fatty acids than Omega-3s. This imbalance can increase inflammation and strain the joints.
Homemade cat foods carry even more risk in this arena, as many homemade recipes do not meet cat nutritional needs. Pet parents wanting to give their cats a wholesome home-cooked meal should include a supplement or premix specifically designed to balance its nutrition. And, to provide extra protection to their cat’s joints, I often advise adding a quality cat joint supplement as well.
Note: Every cat is different. Always consult your veterinarian before starting a new supplement.
What to Look for in a Cat Joint Supplement
With more pet supplements on the market than ever, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here’s what to look for:
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Bioavailable Nutrients
Nutrients only help if your cat can absorb them. Look for supplements made with bioavailable ingredients or whole foods that are easily absorbed. -
Vet-Formulated & Safe for Daily Use
More isn’t always better. Supplements formulated by veterinarians or veterinary nutritionists balance nutrients for safety while maximizing benefits. Daily-use supplements allow support for both aging cats and younger cats at risk of joint issues. -
Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients
Chronic inflammation contributes to joint problems, accelerating onset and increasing discomfort. Anti-inflammatory ingredients can help prevent inflammation in younger cats and relieve symptoms in older cats.
- Green-lipped mussel: A natural source of omega-3s, glycosaminoglycans, chondroitin, glucosamine, and antioxidants that fight inflammation and promote cartilage repair.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a gentle anti-inflammatory compound.
- MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): Offers both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Introducing Feline Mobility Plus: A Vet-Formulated Cat Joint Supplement
Feline Mobility Plus was designed specifically for cats and their unique joint health needs. It provides natural nutritional support to keep them active throughout their adult and senior lives. I admit I have a bit of bias toward this cat joint supplement as I helped formulate it, but that’s how I know it lives up to its claims.
Key Benefits:
- Tasty powder format, easy to mix with nutritionally complete food
- Natural, bioavailable ingredients like green-lipped mussel, turmeric, and MSM for anti-inflammatory support
- Safe for daily use, suitable for both preventing joint problems and easing existing symptoms
Maintaining mobility protects not only a cat’s physical health but also their happiness. Cats that can no longer move freely risk anxiety, depression, and other secondary health problems.
Starting a quality joint supplement before visible signs of arthritis can help preserve your cat’s mobility and overall quality of life. For older cats with joint pain, it can provide much-needed relief.
Always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements, especially if your cat shows signs of arthritis or chronic joint issues. Your vet may recommend additional treatments depending on severity.
Conclusion
Joint pain can cause cats significant discomfort, but it doesn’t have to. Early support with a high-quality cat joint supplement can help slow or prevent problems, while supplements rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients can relieve symptoms in cats already affected.
Choosing a vet-formulated supplement like Feline Mobility Plus gives your cat the best chance at a healthy, active, and pain-free life.
