'Nearly a third' of old cats suffer from arthritis

Posted : 12-09-2007

Almost a third of older cats may be suffering from a painful disease, it has been reported.

According to research carried out by the University of Glasgow, up to 30 per cent of cats over the age of eight may be suffering from arthritis.

Vanessa Thick, vet at Scunthorpe Cats Protection, told the Scunthorpe Telegraph that feline arthritis is a bigger problem than many people may think, noting that many owners attribute symptoms of the condition down to old age.

"Arthritis has a massively negative effect on a cat's quality of life, so if your cat exhibits any of the signs of arthritis, do take them to the vet immediately," she said.

Comprehensive pet insurance can ensure that potentially costly veterinary bills do not add to concern regarding a sick animal.

Sandra Chapman of Scunthorpe RSPCA Animal Welfare Centre told the publication that modern medicine can do much to aid the quality of life in older animals.

Last month, Cats Protection recommended that owners should take out pet insurance on their animal regardless of its age.


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