Modifying Your Home to Ease Discomfort for Your Cat with Arthritis
Cats rarely complain unless their food bowl is less than half-full, so it can be challenging to tell when they are experiencing arthritis pain. The following straightforward home improvements, however, can help your cat feel more comfortable and mobile if they have arthritis or appear to be having trouble moving around.
#1: Switch to low-sided litter boxes
Covered litter boxes are excellent for keeping litter granules and odors in check, but they can be difficult for an arthritic cat to use. Replace your cat’s regular litter boxes with low-sided, uncovered bathrooms so they can hop in and out more easily.
#2: Elevate your cat’s food and water bowls
Your cat’s elbows have experienced significant wear and tear as a result of a lifetime of jumping down. Elevate your cat’s food and water dishes to a comfortable level to prevent your cat from stooping to get to them.
#3: Provide ramps to furniture
Scaling their climbing tower may prove too challenging for your arthritic cat, but they likely still love to look out the window, so place a ramp nearby. Installing ramps to lookout towers or favorite resting spots can help your cat retain their independence and still fulfill instinctual needs, like climbing, hiding, and surveying their territory.
#4: Offer firm bedding
Although extra soft, cushy bedding may seem particularly cozy for your cat, they will find that a too-soft bed is not only difficult to get out of, but also provides little cushion for aching joints. A firm, orthopedic bed will adequately support your cat’s sore body.
#5: Place non-slip mats on slick flooring
Even though your cat may no longer experience nighttime zoomies and sprint up and down your hallway, providing traction on slippery flooring can help avoid painful slips and falls. For your cat, a non-slip surface includes yoga mats or carpet runners.
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.