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Cat Hip Dysplasia:
Symptoms, Treatments, & Natural Supplements
Cats, like dogs, can suffer from hip-related issues. Hip dysplasia can cause discomfort and cat hip pain, limiting your kitty’s mobility. It’s important to watch for symptoms and understand the treatment options for cat hip dysplasia. Holistic treatment for hip dysplasia in cats may include supplements, diet changes and physical therapy to improve your cat’s quality of life.
What is Cat Hip Dysplasia?
Cat hip dysplasia is condition where the hip joint doesn't form properly, leading to instability and potential degeneration over time. Hip dysplasia is primarily a genetic condition and breeds such as Maine Coons, Persians, and Himalayans have a higher incidence. Cat hip dysplasia can cause pain, lameness, an altered gait and a range of mobility issues in affected cats. While cat hip dysplasia is influenced by a cat's inherited traits, certain environmental factors can also contribute to the severity and progression of the condition. Obesity places increased strain on a cat's hip joints and can potentially exacerbate hip dysplasia symptoms. Cats that experience rapid growth during early development may also be at higher risk. Trauma or injury to the hip joints can also lead to the early onset of cat hip dysplasia symptoms.
Symptoms of Cat Hip Dysplasia
- Lameness or limping, especially in hind limbs
- Difficulty rising or jumping
- Bunny-hopping gait
- Decreased activity levels
- Pain or discomfort during movement
Cats are instinctively inclined to conceal signs of weakness and can hide their pain, which can make feline hip dysplasia hard to detect, especially in the early stages.
What Is Cat Hip Dislocation?
Cat hip dislocation occurs when the ball-and-socket joint of the hip becomes disrupted, causing the head of the femur (thigh bone) to move out of its normal position within the hip socket. This can happen due to various reasons, including traumatic injuries, such as vehicular accidents or falls from a height.
Symptoms of a cat hip dislocation may include limping, reluctance to use the affected leg, pain, swelling, and a noticeable change in the range of motion of the hip joint. In some cases, the dislocation may be obvious, with the leg appearing shorter or rotated compared to the unaffected leg.
Cat hip dislocation is usually the result of a traumatic injury, whereas hip dysplasia is a developmental condition that affects the joint's structure and function. Both conditions can cause discomfort and affect a cat's mobility, but their causes and treatments are distinct. If you suspect any hip issues in your cat, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Treatments for Cat Hip Dysplasia
Cat hip dysplasia symptoms aren't always obvious, especially in mild cases so getting a veterinary diagnosis is important. Your veterinarian will conduct an exam and palpate your cat's hip joints to look for signs of discomfort, pain or instability. Your vet will also look at your cat's gait, joint movement and posture. To make a definitive diagnoses, X-rays are needed. X-rays will show abnormalities in the hip joint, such as malformation, subluxation or arthritis. They also enable your veterinarian to determine the severity of your cat's hip dysplasia. Most cases of feline hip dysplasia can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes like exercise routines, weight management, diet changes and using the best cat hip dysplasia supplements.
It can be hard to maintain your kitty's weight, especially if your cat isn't very active. Feeding a low carbohydrate diet, such as a raw frozen diet is helpful, especially if your cat is overweight. Excess weight can put excess strain on a cat's joint and ligaments, increasing their pain and limiting their overall mobility. Here are the primary treatments for cat hip dysplasia:
- Pain management medications
- Weight management to reduce stress on the joints
- Physical therapy to maintain joint flexibility
- Using the best supplements for cat hip dysplasia
- Surgical intervention in severe cases
Managing Feline Hip Dysplasia with Natural Supplements: A Holistic Approach
Cats diagnosed with hip dysplasia can benefit significantly from a holistic treatment approach that includes natural supplements known for their joint-supporting properties. Among the key supplements, glucosamine plays a crucial role in maintaining cartilage health. It is a natural compound that promotes joint lubrication, reduces inflammation, and aids in the repair of damaged tissues. Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is another powerful addition. With its potent anti-inflammatory properties, it helps alleviate discomfort associated with hip dysplasia, promoting improved mobility.
In addition to glucosamine and fish oil, collagen is also an excellent supplement for cat hip dysplasia. Collagen is a structural protein found in connective tissues, including those around a cat's joints. Giving cat collagen supplements helps support the strength and flexibility of their joints by providing the important building blocks for cartilage and ligaments. This is particularly important for cats with hip dysplasia because there is already an inherent weakness.
Hemp Extract is a promising natural supplement for managing feline hip dysplasia as it can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. This can significantly improve the overall comfort and quality of life for cats with hip dysplasia.
Supplements For Cat Hip Dysplasia
ArthroStride For Cats
Cat owners tell us that ArthroStride is the best supplement for cats with hip dysplasia. Scientifically-proven ingredients like MSM, glucosamine, green-lipped mussels, collagen, resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, and curcumin offer comprehensive support for cats with hip dysplasia. These ingredients reduce inflammation, support cartilage integrity, and provide antioxidant protection against oxidative stress in the joints. By relieving pain and discomfort, improving joint mobility, and slowing the progression of joint degeneration, ArthroStride can help to improve overall joint function in cats. Excellent value. One bottle lasts over 6 months for cats.
Learn more about ArthroStride For Cats
PureOcean Wild Omegas
PureOcean Wild Omegas are made from wild-caught sardines, anchovies & mackerel. They have a natural fishy flavor and many cats love the taste. Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, can help reduce inflammation in the joints and alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cat hip dysplasia. Omega-3 fatty acids support joint health by promoting the production of cartilage-building compounds and enhancing joint lubrication. Excellent value. One bottle lasts 4-6 months for cats.
Learn more about PureOcean Wild Omegas
Ultra-Flex Collagen For Cats
A natural “whole-food” cat hip dysplasia that strengthens cartilage, rebuilds connective tissue and supports joint health. Contains food-sourced ingredients and enzymes. The key ingredient is NEM® brand eggshell membrane, a food source of glucosamine and chondroitin. It contains key bioactive proteins such as collagen, which have been shown to support joint comfort and flexibility. Excellent choice for cats that are allergic to glucosamine or that are picky about herbal cat joint supplements. Backed by research. Relieves joint pain and discomfort, strengthens and repairs. Tasteless powder provides allows for an easy once-a-day administration.
Learn more about Ultra-Flex Collagen For Cats
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Happy Paws Hemp Extract For Cats
Happy Paws is the best CBD oil for cat hip pain. Hemp extract has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Rich in cannabinoids, such as CBD, hemp extract can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with hip dysplasia by reducing inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. Hemp extract may modulate your cat's response to pain signals, providing relief from joint pain and stiffness. Professional veterinary strength. Each bottle contains 550mg of full spectrum hemp extract in an unflavored all-natural coconut oil base. 100% organic. Rigorously tested for potency and purity. Made in the USA.
Learn more about Happy Paws Hemp Extract For Cats
Physical Therapy For Cat Hip Dysplasia
While physical therapy may not be as common for cats as it is for dogs, it can be beneficial in managing hip dysplasia in felines. Here are some ways physical therapy can help cats with hip dysplasia:
Range Of Motion Exercises - Gentle stretching exercises can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Strengthening Exercises - Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles around the hip joint, providing more support and stability.
Hydrotherapy - Water exercises, where the cat is allowed to swim or walk in water, can be less stressful on the joints while providing resistance for muscle strengthening.
Massage - Therapeutic massage can help relax muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation around the affected area.
Article published Mar 5, 2024
Written by: Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian
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