How to Help Your Arthritic Cat Stay Active Indoors 2025 Vet Tips 🦴

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Just like humans, cats can develop arthritis as they age. And while your senior cat may not be jumping onto countertops anymore, gentle movement is still essential for their health and quality of life.

At Purrz, we believe in vet-approved solutions to help cats live better, not just longer. Here’s how to help your arthritic cat stay active, mobile, and happy — all from the comfort of your home.

🦴 What Is Arthritis in Cats?

Arthritis (or osteoarthritis) is a chronic condition where joints become inflamed, stiff, and painful. It’s incredibly common in senior cats, but often goes unnoticed.

Common signs include: 

• Hesitating or refusing to jump 
• Stiffness after naps 
• Reduced grooming or matted fur 
• Grumpiness when touched near hips or spine 
• Using the litter box less (too painful to climb in)

Staying active is one of the best ways to manage arthritis and maintain mobility — and it starts with the right environment and products.

😺 1. Create an Easy-Access Environment 

• Use low-entry felt beds like the XL Flat Felt Pad to prevent painful climbing or jumping 
• Place beds, toys, and food in easily reachable areas 
• Use ramp-style furniture or stairs for cats that still like elevation

Tip: The 3-in-1 Cat Cube Cave doubles as a soft resting spot and low-profile play area.

🧸 2. Use Vet-Approved Toys for Low-Impact Play

Gentle, daily movement supports joint health, reduces stiffness, and stimulates the mind. Choose vet-designed toys that are soft, lightweight, and encourage natural movement.

Best toys for arthritic cats: 

• Purrz Wand Toys – Encourage stretching and light swatting from seated or lying positions 
• Soft-Bite Felt Balls – Great for batting and rolling on smooth floors 
• Catnip toys – Stimulate play without requiring jumping

Avoid: Tall cat trees, jump-based toys, or chase toys that create frustration or discomfort.

🌿 3. Reduce Inflammation Naturally

In addition to gentle play, your vet may recommend arthritis supplements for cats to help lubricate joints and reduce pain. 

• Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil) 
• Glucosamine & chondroitin 
• Green-lipped mussel extract

Tip: Always ask your vet before introducing supplements — and monitor for changes in movement, mood, or appetite.

🛏️ 4. Provide Pain-Relieving Comfort Spots

Sleep is critical for healing. Arthritic cats need warm, stable places to rest — without needing to climb, curl, or perch.

Recommended by our vet: 

• 3-in-1 Cat Cube Cave – Use as a soft cube, hideout, or flat recovery mat 
• Uluru Felt Cave – Holds warmth and cushions stiff joints 
• XL Flat Felt Pad – Perfect for heated pad pairing and easy entry

💬 Vet Tip from Dr. Duncan Houston

“Movement is medicine for cats with arthritis — but only when it’s safe and comfortable. Use soft, interactive toys to spark curiosity and beds that reduce pressure on joints. Most of all, watch your cat’s signals closely.”
— Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc

🛒 Vet-Approved Products for Arthritic Cats

Everything in our arthritis-friendly collection at Purrz is tested for comfort, safety, and effectiveness in senior cats. 

• Joint-friendly cat beds 
• Gentle wand & enrichment toys 
• Dental tools and soft enrichment aids

🐾 Shop the full vet-approved collection for senior cats here

📚 What’s Next in Our Senior Cat Series?

This article is part of our ongoing commitment to help pet parents care for aging cats. Coming soon: 

• Top Supplements for Cat Joint Health 
• How to Know If Your Cat Is in Pain
• The Best Felt Beds for Cold Weather Comfort

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