Enhancing Your Home to Support the Needs of Your Cat with Arthritis
Cats rarely complain, so it can be challenging to tell when they are experiencing arthritis pain unless their food bowl is less than half-full. However, the following easy home improvements can help your cat feel more comfortable and mobile if they have been identified as having arthritis or appear to be having trouble moving around.
#1: Switch to low-sided litter boxes
While covered litter boxes are great for containing litter granules and odors, they can be tough for an arthritic cat to navigate. Swap out your cat’s regular litter boxes for low-sided, uncovered bathrooms that they can more easily hop in and out.
#2: Elevate your cat’s food and water bowls
After a lifetime of jumping down, your cat’s elbows have suffered a great deal of wear-and-tear. Eliminate the need for your cat to bend down to reach their food and water by elevating their dishes to a comfortable height.
#3: Provide ramps for furniture
Your arthritic cat might find it difficult to climb their climbing tower, but they probably still enjoy gazing out the window, so put a ramp nearby. Your cat can maintain their independence and continue to satisfy instinctual needs, such as climbing, hiding, and surveying their territory, by having ramps installed at lookout towers or favorite resting places.
#4: Provide supportive bedding
Although extra soft, cushy bedding may seem especially cozy to your cat, they will discover that a too-soft bed is not only difficult to get out of but also offers little cushion for sore joints. Your cat’s sore body will be supported appropriately by a firm, orthopedic bed.
#5: Place non-slip mats on slick flooring
While your cat may no longer get the zoomies in the middle of the night and race up and down your hallway, providing traction on slick flooring can help prevent painful slips and falls. Yoga mats or carpet runners provide a non-slip pathway for your cat.
Your home modifications can help your arthritic cat, but keeping them at a comfortable weight and pain management are also key. Our team can help with these—give us a call to schedule an appointment.