Joint Swelling in Cats

Possible causes of joint swelling in cats include injury, disease, or congenital malformation
Commonly, osteoarthritis causes joint swelling in older cats
In most cases, swelling of joints causes pain, limits the cat’s mobility, and causes lameness
Observation of the cat’s movement and behavior is the first step to diagnosis and resolution
Mild, acute joint swelling in cats is commonly resolved with rest and time
Diagnosis and treatment of underlying causes is needed to resolve more severe cases
Diagnostic tools include physical examination, bloodwork, and imaging
Treatments include pain management, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or surgery
In rare cases chemotherapy or amputation is required
Outcomes are difficult to generalize due to the variety of possible underlying causes

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A closer look: Joint Swelling in Cats

Joint swelling in cats is uncommon and is most often a symptom of a minor injury such as a sprain or a strain. In these cases, there is no cause for concern as long as symptoms improve. Ongoing joint swelling, joint swelling in more than one limb, or joint swelling that affects the cat’s behavior and mood require prompt veterinary attention. Cats that are unable to use a limb at all require immediate veterinary care.

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Possible causes

Risk factors

Joint swelling in cats varies in severity. Careful observation of the cat by the pet parent gathers an accurate picture of the problem. Considerations include:

Age of onset
Acute or chronic (sudden or ongoing)
Consistent or intermittent symptoms
Progression of symptoms
Number of joints swollen
Apparent severity of pain
Limited mobility caused by the swelling

Testing and diagnosis

In cases where joint swelling is mild and acute, rest and time are sufficient for healing. In cases where swelling does not resolve on its own in a few days or is severe, veterinary attention is necessary to diagnose underlying causes. Diagnostic tools include:

Physical exam
Bloodwork
Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or CT scan
Joint fluid analysis

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause. Possible treatments include:

Antibiotics
Surgery
Casts or slings
Chemotherapy
Amputation
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as prescribed by a veterinarian

Over-the-counter NSAIDS are not recommended as they are potentially toxic and can mask important symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis. Pain killers should only be administered to animals under the guidance of a veterinarian.