Mobility problems in cats are more common than you think with 80 per cent of cats over 12 years of age suffering from this condition.

One of the reasons joint problems occur is when cartilage wears away faster than it can be replaced.  When it wears away, joints become swollen and painful thus creating difficulties with mobility. 

Signs of Mobility Problems 

If your cat has joint problems, the first thing you’ll notice are lifestyle and behavioural changes such as a reduced ability or willingness to jump up or down from heights, increased sleep, less interaction between you and your cat, difficulty going up or down stairs, problems negotiating the litter box, poor grooming and less purring!

What causes joint problems in cats?

• Age

Although young cats can suffer with joint problems, it is much more common in older cats, because there are changes in the cartilage that occur with age.

• Breed and genetics

Some breeds of cats may be more likely to develop joint problems through imperfect joints.  For example Persian, Siamese and Himalayan cats may develop hip dysplasia.

• Excess weight

Overweight and obese cats may have more severe problems because of the increased stress on affected joints.

• Accidents and damage

Cats are very agile pets that enjoy climbing and jumping.  Over time, the stress that is put on their joints may contribute to deterioration in cartilage.  Additional stress can be caused by the trauma from accidents.

• Other factors

Other factors can contribute to joint problems in cats such as inflammation and infection in the joints and bony fractures affecting the joints.
 

New Prescription Food Can Help with Mobility Problems 

However help is at hand for cats with mobility problems.  In some cases, medication can be prescribed.  Following the success of Prescription Diet Canine j/d, Hill’s Pet Nutrition has launched Prescription Diet Feline j/d which can help get cats moving again by preserving healthy cartilage and easing aching joints.

Specially developed with the Hill’s Advanced Mobility Formula™, Feline j/d is the only food clinically proven to maintain youthful mobility.  It contains high levels of DHA, the omega-3 fatty acid that has been found to help ease aching joints, together with two aminoacids, L-carnitine and L-lysine, to maintain a healthy weight while building lean muscle mass for better muscular support around the joints. The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate in the formula support cartilage repair.

See the difference in just 28 days!

If you want to get your old cat back in just 28 days, why not take the 28 Day Challenge by feeding your cat with Feline j/d?  See the difference in just 28 days or your money back!  Hill’s Prescription Diet Feline j/d is a complete, nutritious and tasty food that is available as a dry or wet food. 

Hill's Prescription Diet Feline j/d is only available from your veterinary surgery and your cat will need to be examined by your vet.  Your vet will be able to give you further information on mobility issues for cats and about the Hill's 28 Day Challenge.