Diagnosing Feline Osteoarthritis Can Be Tricky – New Research Highlights Complexity   

While osteoarthritis is a common disease in cats, it was only recently that researchers identified the importance of feline OA.  A study in the January issue of the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery highlights the clinical and diagnostic challenges of feline OA.

The presence of osteophytes is the key radiographic finding in both dogs and cats with OA. However, there are several tricky challenges of diagnosing OA with radiography. Joints that appear radiographically free of osteophytes can be pathologically affected by OA and can cause chronic pain for the animal. In addition, clinicians may lack extensive experience reading feline radiographs for joint pathology, which further complicates diagnosis.

Another problem is the owner’s perception and observation of the pet. Owners believe that cats normally slow down with age, and are unaware that cats may suffer from chronic, painful arthritis and need treatment. Vets are advised to tell owners to observe behavioral changes in cats, such as not jumping and less physical activity. Cats with OA don’t typically exhibit lameness, which can cause pet owners to downplay or dismiss the severity of the animal’s condition.

The article findings highlight the importance of expert radiograph evaluation collaboration with vets to diagnose and treat this painful disease. VICSD’s advanced diagnostic imaging services can help vets diagnose OA.