Arthritis affects 90% of cats over 12 - and most owners never know. Cats hide pain so well they just stop jumping and sleep more. By the time you notice, joint damage is already significant. Treatment costs $30-$100/month for life.
Cartilage breaks down causing bone-on-bone friction and inflammation. Age is the biggest factor: 90% of cats over 12 have arthritis. Obesity, previous injuries, and joint abnormalities accelerate it. The most underdiagnosed condition in cats
Reduced jumping or using steps. Hesitation before jumping. Sleeping more, playing less. Stiffness after resting. Difficulty with the litter box. Decreased grooming, matted coat. Irritability when touched. Cats hide pain - look for behavior changes, not limping
X-rays ($200-$400) confirm the diagnosis and show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and cartilage loss. Cats tense up during exams, masking pain. Sedation may be needed for accuracy. Average $200-$400
Solensia (frunevetmab) $50-$100/month. Meloxicam or robenacoxib $15-$40/month. Joint supplements $15-$30/month. Weight management and ramps, low-entry litter boxes, heated beds help. Average $30-$100/month ongoing
Diagnosis plus ongoing pain management, supplements, and periodic vet checks. Solensia alone runs $600-$1,200/year. $500-$1,500 annually depending on treatment approach.
Maine Coon, Persian, Scottish Fold, and Siamese have higher rates. Scottish Folds are especially prone due to cartilage abnormalities. But any senior cat is at risk - it's nearly universal.
Arthritis is progressive and irreversible. The goal is pain control and quality of life, not cure. Early intervention slows progression and keeps cats comfortable longer.
Keep your cat lean - every extra pound stresses joints. Stay active with gentle play. Annual senior screening after age 7 catches it early.
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Diagnosis plus ongoing pain management, supplements, and periodic vet checks.
Most policies cover arthritis if enrolled before symptoms appear. Standard 14-day illness waiting period applies. Vet visits, X-rays, Solensia injections, and pain medications are typically covered.
Since 90% of cats over 12 have arthritis, insuring a senior cat is nearly impossible without it being pre-existing. Enroll young - as a kitten or young adult - before arthritis develops.
At $500-$1,500/year, arthritis treatment exceeds annual deductibles. Over 5+ years, total costs reach $5,000-$10,000. Insurance delivers significant long-term value here.
Many policies exclude supplements and nutraceuticals from coverage. Glucosamine/chondroitin ($15-$30/month) isn't covered. Prescription medications and Solensia injections are covered, but over-the-counter supplements usually aren't.
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