The lame cat: the challenge of degenerative joint disease

Abstract

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) has a high prevalence in cats and can be associated with pain. The feline population is an ageing one, and, as age is a major risk factor for both increasing prevalence and severity of feline DJD, it is critically important that veterinarians can recognise and treat it appropriately. History and physical examination findings differ to those in dogs, and radiographs can be difficult to interpret as cats do not form as much radiographic pathology as other species. A multi modal management plan comprising environmental modulation, physical therapy, dietary modulation, weight reduction and drug therapy where required is appropriate in the first instance but where clinical signs cannot be controlled with medical management, surgical options are available.