Multiple Joint Inflammation in Cats

Multiple joint inflammation, also known as non-erosive immune-mediated polyarthritis, is a rare problem in cats. In this problem, inflammation occurs in movable joints such as the shoulder or knee. However, there is no wear and tear on the joint due to this inflammation. If symptoms of multiple joint inflammation are observed in cats, the cat should be examined by a veterinarian in order to properly treat the problem.

Symptoms of Multiple Joint Inflammation

Multiple joint inflammation in cats causes a variety of symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Stiffness in the legs,
• Topallama,
• Restricted movement,
• Crackling sounds in the joints,
• Swelling and pain in multiple joints,
• Subluxation in the joints,
• Dislocation.

The lameness pattern changes in cats with multiple joint inflammation. Initially, only one leg may limp, but after a while, the other leg may also start to limp. Stiffness may also be seen in the leg between the knee and ankle.

Causes of Multiple Arthritic Disorders

Multiple arthritis in cats can occur due to various reasons. One of the underlying causes of arthritis is a type 3 hypersensitivity reaction that leads to antibodies binding to the joint tissue. These antibody-antigen complexes, called immune complexes, are located in the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints and cause abnormal results in the joint cartilage. As a result, the body begins to fight the inflammation that occurs in the joint. The tissue surrounding the cartilage undergoes an inflammatory response that triggers complement protein activation in response to the immune cells. This causes the clinical signs of arthritis to appear in cats. In addition;

• In cats with systemic lupus erythematosus, autoantibodies attacking the joints as a result of various cells transforming into antigens,
• Certain chronic infections leading to tissue growth,
• Polymyositis syndrome,
• Meningitis,
• Lymphocytic plasmacytic synovitis affecting the synovial fluid content in the joints,
• Progressive chronic polyarthritis are also problems that cause multiple joint inflammation.

However, these conditions are very rare in cats. The majority of cases of multiple joint inflammation in cats are considered idiopathic. Therefore, the exact cause of the problem cannot be diagnosed.

Diagnosis and Treatment Methods

A physical examination by a veterinarian is necessary to diagnose multiple joint inflammation. During the examination, the joints in which the cat is experiencing pain, any limitations in movement, and any lameness are evaluated. Afterwards, a complete blood count, urinalysis, and electrolyte analysis are performed. In some cases, a fluid sample may be taken from the joint for laboratory analysis. A sample of synovial fluid may also be necessary for differential diagnosis. X-rays are also necessary for a definitive diagnosis. If it is non-erosive immune-mediated polyarthritis, this can be easily seen on an X-ray.

There is no definitive cure for multiple joint inflammation in cats. There are various methods that can be applied to maintain the cat's current condition, make it feel better, and prevent the progression of the disease. Physical therapy aimed at eliminating limitations in movement is quite effective. Various exercises and massages can significantly relieve the cat's discomfort. For cats that have difficulty walking, bandaging is applied. Supporting the leg with a brace along with the bandage also prevents the disease from progressing. In overweight cats, the excessive load on the joints leads to a faster progression of the disease. Excess weight also makes joint inflammation more painful. Therefore, it is recommended that obese cats with polyarthritis lose weight. Cats returning to a healthy weight both alleviates the pain caused by the disease and slows down its progression. In non-erosive polyarthritis, another option is surgery. Surgery cleanses the infection, providing relief and restoring the cat's health. However, surgery is not a preferred treatment method. If the underlying disease causing polyarthritis is diagnosed, it is necessary to treat that disease first, followed by the polyarthritis.

In overweight cats, the excessive load on the joints leads to faster disease progression. Excess weight also makes joint inflammation more painful. Therefore, weight loss is recommended for obese cats with polyarthritis. Returning to a healthy weight will both alleviate the pain caused by the disease and slow its progression.

In non-erosive polyarthritis, another option is surgery. Surgery cleanses the infection, providing relief and restoring the cat's health. However, surgery is not a preferred treatment method. If the underlying disease causing polyarthritis is diagnosed, it is necessary to treat that disease first, followed by the polyarthritis.