Glucosamine is an amino sugar compound found in the body and is used to form and repair cartilage and other body tissues. It is available as a dietary and nutritional supplement effective in treating osteoarthritis. That being said, is it safe to give glucosamine to cats suffering from arthritis?
Humans are not the only ones who suffer from joint pains due to arthritis and old age, even pets do. Because your cat is feeling pain and discomfort in the joints, they are forced to limit their movements and avoid doing certain tasks. It is heartbreaking to see them this way and that is why we try to find the best remedies to treat the pain they are experiencing from joint pain and inflammation.
Cat arthritis occurs when the cartilage between each bone erodes, causing bone thickening. This is when the pain, swelling, and the inflammation start to happen in cats. Older cats are more prone to arthritis because of overuse of joints. Cats that have experienced previous injuries and infections can also be prone to this condition. If you notice that your cat is reluctant to move and walk, favors one side of the body, loses appetite, and shows discomfort in any way, have them checked right away to know how you can properly treat them. There are various ways of treating cat arthritis and it is best not to delay them.
Glucosamine has been a known nutritional supplement in treating osteoarthritis in humans and in pets as well. As a supplement, it helps build new cartilage in the joints and blocks enzymes that attempt to damage joint tissue. It alleviates the pain experienced by your pet. Since it is not a pharmaceutical drug of any kind, glucosamine is considered a natural treatment for arthritis and other joint problems in dogs and cats. To know the proper way and the right dosage in giving this supplement, wait for your veterinarian’s recommendation.
Can I Give My Cat Glucosamine? Answer: Yes
Glucosamine is a neutraceutical used as a dietary supplement to relieve the pain and symptoms of cat arthritis. Through it, new cartilage is formed, paving the way for joint mobility. It is safe to give to your cat as long as it is within the recommended dosage. You will only know if it is really effective when you start giving it to your cat. Mix it with their food for a few weeks and see how your cat responds to the treatment, and whether or not their condition shows signs of improvement during the supplementation of glucosamine.
Cat Arthritis and What You Can Do About It
It is not a delightful moment for us to see our cats showing signs of inactivity, losing appetite, or ailing in pain. Cat arthritis deserves early intervention because the pain and discomfort it brings to your cat may cause even more troubles. If diagnosed with arthritis or other joint pains, make your pet comfortable by giving them proper bedding. Consult with your vet about your cat’s diet and how you can provide a healthy and balanced one for them. Know what vitamins and minerals are needed, especially by cats experiencing joint inflammation. Try to keep your cat moving as well, even with their condition. Having joint pain does not mean not letting them exercise and stretch anymore. Light physical activity such as walking can help release small amounts of lubricants in their joints.
Side Effects of Glucosamine
Glucosamine is considered a natural treatment for pets experiencing joint pain. Although considered safe, it still has a few side effects such as vomiting due to a gag reflex. Diarrhea can also be experienced by cats taking this supplement. As long as glucosamine is given only within the recommended dosage, severe side effects should not occur. This is why this natural supplement, even if safe, should still be administered under your veterinarian’s orders.
Glucosamine in Pets: Liquid or Capsule?
There are many brands of glucosamine in the market. You can also choose from liquid or capsule form. The latter is mostly given to pets by crushing and mixing them with pet food. Although they are able to ingest it this way, studies show that the bioavailability in capsule form is much less than in liquid form. Glucosamine in liquid form is said to be much effective because about 98% is concentrated in the blood. Ask your vet what your best option is to make the most out of this natural dietary supplement.
How much of my glucosamine/chondroitin do I give my senior cat? I need dosing guidelines. Thank you!