If you use glucosamine, chondroitin, or any other supplements for your own arthritis and have a cat who’s suffering from joint pain, you’ve probably wondered if there are cat-specific versions of those supplements—and whether they could help your cat. The answer is: maybe. And it’s certainly worth talking with your vet about adding a supplement to your kitty’s nutritional routine. You can find glucosamine for cats, as well as joint supplements that include chondroitin, vitamin B12, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), or omega-3 amino acids.
Two of my senior cats take a supplement that includes glucosamine, chondroitin, and manganese. For one cat who’s been diagnosed with spinal arthritis, there’s been a tremendous improvement in her ability to walk and jump without pain. For the second cat, there’s no observable improvement. We’re helping them both out with raised food and water bowls and orthopedic pet beds.
There are few (if any) large-scale studies supporting the effectiveness of joint supplements for cats, so we don’t know why glucosamine supplements seem to help one cat but not another. Veterinarian Cailin Heinze, an assistant professor of nutrition in the department of clinical sciences at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, says that vets are recommending cat joint supplements based on anecdotal evidence about cats like Zoe.
“The good news is that there are studies in other animals and anecdotal reports indicating that these substances may improve comfort in some situations—perhaps through an anti-inflammatory mechanism,” Heinze says in a comprehensive article on cat joint supplements for Bay State Animals. “And if you’re using a high-quality product from a reputable source—a product that actually contains what the supplier says it contains—then the safety level is pretty high.”
How Does Glucosamine Work?
Natural glucosamine, in people and cats, keeps up the health of cartilage—the rubbery tissue that cushions bones at the joints. As cats (like humans) age, their glucosamine decreases, and their cartilage may deteriorate. The question is, can glucosamine in supplement form take the place of natural glucosamine—and does it effectively help cartilage?
Dr. Narda Robinson, who oversees complementary veterinary education at Colorado State University, reviews the arguments, pro and con, in this Veterinary Practice News article. She concludes, “There does appear to be some value and little risk. Not ready to abandon a product that could very well help and likely not hurt, this evidence-based practitioner will continue to mention glucosamine as one of many options for multimodal analgesia for OA (osteoarthritis) patients and potential disease-modifying OA benefits as well.”
Before You Try Glucosamine for Cats
When it comes to choosing glucosamine for cats, or any cat joint supplement, it pays to be picky. Check out online reviews and you’ll discover upset pet owners who feel their cats were harmed by contaminated or fake supplements. We like these helpful guidelines from Dr. Gary Richter, an award-winning vet and member of Rover’s Dog People Panel:
- Look for brands that have commissioned clinical studies of their products.
- Read labels carefully to ensure quality and safety.
- Look for a lot number on the product. This is a sign that the company uses quality control checks.
- Choose brands with confirmed expertise.
- Be wary of claims that sound too good to be true. Vitamin supplements are just that—supplements. They are not cure-alls or medications.
- Do not give human supplements to your cat, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to cats.
- In general, the best options will be available through your veterinarian.
The bottom line about glucosamine for cats: Talk to your vet first before introducing any nutritional supplement into your pet’s diet.
Finding the Best Glucosamine for Cats
You can buy glucosamine for cats in liquid, chew, capsule, or powder form (many of the capsules are designed to be opened, and you can sprinkle the oil or powdered contents into food). They can include just a few ingredients, or a long list of components, such as chondroitin, vitamin B12, methylsulfonylmethane, and omega-3 amino acids, in addition to glucosamine. Here are some that get top ratings from pet parents; unless otherwise noted, they are made in the U.S.
Nutramax Cosequin Joint Health Cat Supplement Capsules
The only cat joint health supplement brand that published, controlled U.S. studies have shown to be effective, safe, and bioavailable (having an active effect), Cosequin is manufactured following standards similar to those practiced by the pharmaceutical industry and includes glucosamine, chondroitin, and manganese. Cosequin helps support cartilage production and protect existing cartilage from breakdown. You can give your cat a capsule, or sprinkle the capsule contents onto their food.
NaturVet Glucosamine Soft Chews for Cats
This chew-type supplement that works for cats and dogs includes glucosamine, chondroitin, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), vitamins, and omega-3. You’ll want to give your cat the chew with or after a meal to reduce the chance of stomach upset.
Shop on ChewyVetriScience Glycoflex Joint Support Cat Chews
Glycoflex bite-size chews are joint supplements formulated specifically for cats and are based on the stage of your cat’s joint issues. This stage 2 product contains glucosamine, Perna canaliculus (New Zealand green-lipped mussel), and other joint-support ingredients.
Shop on ChewyPet Naturals of Vermont Hip and Joint Chews for Cats
They look like treats, but these tasty fish-flavored chews deliver a joint-support formula that includes glucosamine and chondroitin.
Shop on AmazonArthrimaxx Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM Supplement
Want to give your cat glucosamine and chondroitin in liquid form? Arthrimaxx is the way to go; use the dropper to add a dosage of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM to your cat’s wet or dry food.
Shop on AmazonFurther Reading
- Vitamins for Cats: Does Your Kitty Really Need Them?
- Exploring Omega-3 for Cats: Can it Boost Your Kitty’s Health?
- Canned Pumpkin for Dogs and Cats: Is It Really Good for Them?
- The 10 Healthiest Cat Food Options to Dish Out on a Budget
Featured image by Zeke Tucker/Unsplash
