5 Signs Your Dog or Cat Might Have Arthritis (and What You Can Do)

Just like us, our dogs and cats can experience the aches, stiffness, and discomfort that come with aging — especially when it comes to arthritis. It’s one of the most common conditions in older pets, but because our furry friends are so good at hiding pain, it often goes unnoticed until it starts to affect their quality of life.

As a lifelong animal lover and founder of FurBabies, I know how hard it can be to watch a

once-energetic pet start to slow down. The good news? Arthritis is manageable, especially when caught early. With a combination of awareness, gentle care, and natural support, your pet can continue to live a comfortable and happy life.

Here are 5 (five) Signs Your Dog or Cat Might Have Arthritis

1. Stiffness or Trouble Moving

One of the first signs many pet parents notice is stiffness — especially after resting. Your dog may hesitate to get up, jump in the car, or climb stairs. Cats may stop leaping to their favorite perch or appear more grounded in their movements.

What to do:Start with a vet checkup to confirm what’s going on. Supportive measures at home include cozy bedding, low-impact movement, and joint-friendly supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. Some pet parents find natural solutions like adaptogenic herbs — such as holy basil and ashwagandha — help ease stiffness and improve mobility. Our own Easy Joints formulas gently incorporate all-natural plant-based ingredients, tailored specifically for either dogs or cats.

2. Limping or Favouring a Limb

A sudden or recurring limp may signal inflammation or pain in a specific joint. This may become more noticeable after activity or when your pet first wakes up.

What to do:Give your pet time to rest and avoid strenuous activity. Soft surfaces and joint-friendly play can help. Many pets respond well to natural anti-inflammatories like turmeric, reishi mushroom, or boswellia, which are safe for pets when dosed properly. Look for pet-specific formulations that offer targeted support without the side effects of synthetic medications.

3. Changes in Behaviour or Mood

Pain doesn’t just affect movement — it can impact mood, too. If your normally affectionate pet becomes withdrawn, irritable, or avoids being touched, arthritis may be the cause.

What to do:Provide space, comfort, and gentle attention. Some herbs used to support joint health — like ashwagandha — also have calming properties that may ease both pain and anxiety. This dual effect is something we carefully considered when developing our Easy Joints line, especially for pets whose discomfort affects both body and mood.

4. Licking, Chewing, or Biting at Joints

If your pet is fixated on licking a specific limb or joint area, it may be their way of coping with discomfort. Cats may overgroom, while dogs might chew or lick persistently.

What to do:Watch for patterns and bring them up with your vet. You might also explore natural support options that reduce inflammation from the inside out. While topical relief has its place, long-term wellness usually comes from what you put in the body, not just on it.

5. Slowing Down or Sleeping More

Senior pets often nap more, but a noticeable decline in activity or interest in play may signal something deeper. If your dog no longer wants to go for walks or your cat seems to spend all day in one spot, arthritis could be the reason.

What to do:Encourage gentle, consistent movement and consider daily supplementation for joint support. Our Arthritis & Mobility Support and Easy Joints blends use a combination of plant-based adaptogens, mushroom extracts, and other natural ingredients that help promote mobility without stressing sensitive systems. It's a simple but meaningful way to support their comfort as they age.

Final Thoughts from Tami

Aging is inevitable, but suffering doesn’t have to be. With a little awareness and some thoughtful care, you can help your dog or cat enjoy their senior years with ease, dignity, and joy.

At FurBabies, we’re here to support you with safe, gentle solutions rooted in nature and backed by love. Whether you’re noticing the first signs of joint discomfort or just want to be proactive, we believe in caring for our pets the way they care for us — unconditionally.

With love and wagging (and purring) tails,

Tami L. KerschFounder, FurBabies Pet Products

🐾 For the ones who love us most.