Feline progressive polyarthritis, as the name suggests, affects multiple joints in a cat and worsens over time. There are generally two types of this disease. These kinds of changes are similar to those seen in hip dysplasia and other degenerative joint disease. The most commonly affected joints are those of the feet, the carpus (wrist), and hock...
The most common signs of arthritis and joint disease in cats include
- Stiffness
- Limping
- Favouring a limb - particularly after sleep or resting
- Reluctance to jump or even climb stairs
- Noticeable pain.
In the second type of progressive polyarthritis, the erosion of the cartilage is severe such that the bone under the cartilage is exposed, which causes severe pain. This is similar to rheumatoid arthritis in dogs and people.
Progressive polyarthritis in cats generally affects young and middle-aged male cats . The cats show a reluctance to walk, the joints are swollen, the range of motion is reduced, and in some cases, the cats experience recurring episodes of fever, loss of appetite, and swollen lymph nodes.
Mainstream treatment is usually along the lines of pain relief use of anti inflammatories & immune supressing drugs.
There is no cure for either type of progressive polyarthritis. Even with strong combinations of pain relievers, anti-inflammatories such as prednisone, and more potent medications, which suppress the immune system, many cats remain in extreme pain and owners may elect to have the cat euthanized.
Rheumatic and arthritic pain was a feature of mankind's existence since the beginning of time. In every culture there is a wide selection of herbs to address all the different aspects of this sort of pain.
McDowells Treatment
I have chosen a mixture which is a good general approach for cats and the herbs I have included are; Dandelion, Celery Seed, Bog Bean, White Willow and Yarrow. I also include the Bach Flowers Oak and Rockwater. This formula will detoxify the system, reduce inflammation and stimulate circulation. Your cat will show an improvement in mobility and comfort with continued use.
