Chondroprotective agents for cats.

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Veterinarians prescribe chondroprotective supplements to cats with joint issues. While conventional medicine considers them to be drugs with unproven effectiveness, they are often included in treatment plans for conditions such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteochondrodysplasia, and other related ailments. Let’s delve into what they are, whether it’s worth giving chondroprotective supplements to your cat, how often to administer them, and what results can be expected from their use.

Chondroprotective supplements for cats and dogs—what are they?

Chondroprotectives refer to two main substances that promote joint health: chondroitin and glucosamine. Chondroitin is a component of synovial fluid and plays a crucial role in the metabolism of cartilage tissue. Glucosamine, a building block of chondroitin, is produced by cartilage tissue and is also present in synovial fluid. When these substances are lacking, joints are prone to various negative processes.

Which cat breeds are prone to joint problems?

Joint problems can occur in cats of any breed, including mixed breeds. However, certain breeds are considered more susceptible to joint issues. These breeds include:

Scottish Fold (due to joint deformities associated with the folded ear gene);
Ukrainian Levkoy (the breed was developed with the involvement of Scottish Folds);
Maine Coon (due to their large size, which places increased strain on the musculoskeletal system);
Sphynx cats (with improper breeding practices);
Dwelf cats (increased stress on the joints of short legs);
Bambino cats (predisposition to hip dysplasia).

All cats in their senior years and those who are overweight are also at risk because excess weight always puts increased strain on the joints, causing them to wear out more quickly. In addition, those who receive a poor-quality diet and those with digestive absorption issues are also under the “scope” of this condition.

Are chondroprotective supplements just a placebo?

Chondroprotective supplements are definitely necessary for a cat’s joints. It is difficult to overestimate the importance of chondroitin and glucosamine. However, as previously mentioned, these substances, when used as dietary supplements, do not have proven effectiveness. That is why they are sold as dietary supplements in the United States, for example.

A series of independent studies were conducted. As a result, some studies showed minor improvements in outcomes as a result of supplementation, particularly in terms of pain reduction. Other studies, however, found that the effect was no greater than that of a placebo. Below, we will refer to studies that focus on humans rather than cats, as separate high-quality studies specifically for cats have not been conducted.

Arguments against:

Many studies have found no difference between the use of chondroprotectors and placebo in individuals with joint conditions. In other words, the effect in the group taking the protectors was the same as in the placebo group.
The main argument against is that chondroitin and glucosamine do not enter the bloodstream and joints in the same form as they were consumed, as the body breaks down everything that enters the stomach into “building blocks” and then assembles what it deems necessary. It is impossible to influence this process through sheer willpower.

Arguments in favor of chondroprotectors include the following:

Some clinical studies have shown that taking chondroitin sulfate for 1-3 months is still accompanied by increased joint mobility, reduced swelling, and pain. Research has also demonstrated an increase in the width of the joint space on X-rays.
A study on the effects of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements on inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein, showed that these supplements may reduce systemic inflammation in the body.
Glucosamine increases the permeability of the joint capsule, restores enzymatic processes in the cells of the synovial membrane and articular cartilage, promotes the fixation of sulfur during the synthesis of chondroitin sulfate, facilitates the normal deposition of calcium in bones, and slows down the development of degenerative processes in the joints. The question remains about the effectiveness of oral intake. However, one way or another, if we provide the body with building material through food, we increase the chances that it will be used as intended.

Let’s repeat the words of one of the authors of the articles posted on the website of the National Library of Medicine in the United States: “Chondroitin in supplements for cats and dogs does not have proven effectiveness, but veterinarians prescribe it because, based on subjective assessments, there is a positive effect.” So, it can be said that the reviews from veterinarians are more positive than negative.

Cat food with glucosamine and chondroitin is available.

There are specialized cat foods for joints and bones that include chondroprotective ingredients. Cat food for cats with joint issues may also include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, although this information may not be readily apparent to the average consumer. With such a food, the cat may indeed become more mobile, and other ailments, such as minor skin inflammations, may disappear. However, regular consumption of such food is risky because these medications, albeit present in microdoses, can be extremely harmful to the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully examine the composition. In our opinion, the best cat food for joints that does not contain harmful painkillers is Ziwi Peak.

Elite-class cat food, which comes in several variations, including a lamb option. The ingredients include lamb, lamb liver, kidneys, heart, rumen, lungs, New Zealand green-lipped mussels, lamb bone, lecithin, inulin from chicory, dried seaweed, and added vitamins and minerals.

As you can see, this is a grain-free food, but unlike many similar options, it doesn’t rely on potatoes and legumes as substitutes for grains. Instead, it uses meat ingredients. New Zealand green-lipped mussels serve as a source of chondroprotective compounds.

We could end the discussion about the food here, but the problem is that Ziwi Peak is not readily available everywhere, and it comes with a hefty price tag. At the same time, cat owners often inquire about Royal Canin Mobility Feline and Hill’s J/D Joint Care foods, as they are more affordable and widely accessible. Therefore, let’s also discuss them as cheaper and widely available alternatives.

Royal Canin Mobility Feline is perhaps the most well-known food in the series of diets for cats with joint issues. It is a food for cats with chondroprotective properties, albeit with expensive ingredients such as extract of New Zealand green-lipped mussels. However, in order to keep the price reasonable, the manufacturer has cheapened the rest of the ingredients to such an extent that, in our opinion, it can hardly be considered beneficial nutrition.

Ingredients: corn flour, wheat gluten, corn, rice, dehydrated poultry protein, animal fats, vegetable fiber, corn gluten, hydrolyzed animal protein, fish oil, minerals, soy oil, chicory pulp, psyllium husks and seeds, fructo-oligosaccharides, extract of New Zealand green-lipped mussels, yeast hydrolyzate, glucosamine, extract of common knapweed, hydrolyzed cartilage (a source of chondroitin).

Dry cat food for joint health contains ingredients that are not suitable for cats: gluten, grain flour, which can be harmful to the body.

Hill’s joint care cat food has a similar composition: grains, meat and animal derivatives, plant protein extracts, oils and fats, minerals, mollusks, and crustaceans. Let’s not forget that chondroitin and glucosamine in cat food are not everything; it is also important to maintain a proper overall diet since such foods are used on a regular basis. However, when comparing Hill’s J/D Joint Care and Royal Canin Mobility Feline in terms of their impact on joints, Royal Canin has a more interesting composition because green-lipped mussels are an excellent source of chondroprotective agents that are currently trending.

The best chondroprotective supplements for cats and joint vitamins.

In our opinion, it is wiser to choose a good commercial cat food or a natural diet for your cat and supplement it with chondroprotective agents that have higher doses of the necessary substances. Firstly, this will not tie you to a specific brand of food. Secondly, you won’t be forced to choose a cheaper and lower-quality food just because it contains chondroprotective agents.

“Hondriks” have already seen three generations. The first two were so-so. But for third-generation drugs, glucosamine is typically derived from chitin found in the shells of mollusks and exoskeletons of marine arthropods. In this regard, green-lipped mussels, mentioned earlier, have proven themselves well. The most effective preparations are considered to be those that combine not only chondroitin with glucosamine but also fatty acids (which reduce inflammation).

Green-lipped mussels are increasingly being used as a source of chondroprotective agents in the production of pet food and supplements.

However, some medications, as well as pet food, may contain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can have a negative impact on the gastrointestinal tract. It is better to administer them separately, as prescribed by a veterinarian, if they are required for your cat. Such medications are not included in our ranking.

Owners often seek information about the best chondroprotective supplements for cats for preventive purposes and for mild conditions. The best option is one that includes high-quality and easily absorbed chondroprotective agents in sufficient quantities. Veterinarians usually prescribe not only chondroprotective agents but also additional supplements containing calcium, vitamins, and magnesium for cats with joint issues. There are comprehensive medications that include all of these components and specialized ones with individual components.

Not every joint support medication for cats can be purchased and blindly used, as the majority of what is available on the market is simply ineffective. And the relatively effective medications are expensive. Below, we will discuss which joint tablets for cats are worth purchasing.

Pet Naturals of Vermont contains glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane (a bioavailable form of sulfur for connective tissue synthesis), green-lipped mussels, chondroitin sulfate, vitamin C, and manganese.
Dr. Mercola’s Joint Support – This product contains beneficial ingredients such as collagen, which supports ligaments and joints, as well as hyaluronic acid. Additionally, it contains natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory substances such as bromelain and methylsulfonylmethane.
Omega-3 for dogs and cats – A concentrated fish oil specifically for dogs and cats.

Natural food for cats with joint problems.

The natural feeding system offers a wide range of products that contain a high amount of glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as hyaluronic acid and collagen, which are necessary for joint problems. Excellent sources of these substances are animal joints, bird feet, necks, tails, spines, skin, fish heads, and poultry. Collagen is abundant in tendons and tough meats. All of these should be adequately included in the menu for a cat with joint issues.

It is also recommended to add sources of omega-3 as an anti-inflammatory component. This primarily includes fatty red fish – one fish feeding per week or a small piece daily along with the meat. Additionally, omega-3 should be taken as a course for its therapeutic effect. There is a lot of low-quality and counterfeit product in pharmacies, so the author of the article purchases such supplements only from the online store iHerb.

As for aspic, which many people prefer as a remedy, firstly, it is quite fatty as it is made from broth, and not all cats tolerate it well on a regular basis. Secondly, it is a gelatinous preparation that is less digestible. Humans don’t have a choice – we cannot eat raw meat. But cats are predators capable of digesting raw meat and extracting maximum benefit from it. Therefore, a cooked menu for cats is not considered natural nutrition. True natural nutrition is raw feeding. Aspic has no place in such a diet.

What is the expected effect of using chondroprotective agents for cats?

It should not be expected that chondroprotective agents will completely restore the joints to their pre-existing condition in cases of deformities and degenerative changes. Additionally, if we are dealing with genetic problems of the musculoskeletal system, such as osteochondrodysplasia, this condition cannot be cured. In the case of conditions like arthritis, other treatments prescribed by a veterinarian are also necessary. In other words, chondroprotective agents will not be the sole therapy in such cases where the problem is already significant, but they can provide excellent support. In mild cases, chondroprotective agents alone may be sufficient.

If there is an opportunity to support the joints and slow down degenerative processes, why not take advantage of it? Some diseases, unfortunately, leave no room to try something else. Moreover, chondroprotective agents have no serious side effects, even with long-term use. So it is difficult to harm a cat with them.

The author of the article can share their own experience in this regard. From an early age, their young Highland Fold cat had a stiff tail that bent but not completely, causing discomfort when flexed. There was also a slightly stiff gait, occasionally accompanied by lameness.

The natural diet rich in the aforementioned components was able to improve the tail mobility situation over the course of several months (though not to a normal extent). Additionally, the cat became more physically active, presumably due to reduced discomfort. When occasional lameness occurs, joint supplements are added to the diet. Lately, there has been no lameness, so the tablets are taken in courses, one month on and one month off. Many breeders also provide such supplements to all their fold cats, even those without any symptoms.

The subjective opinion of the article’s author and the surveyed breeders is that joint supplements do help, although they are not a miraculous pill capable of completely eliminating the problem. Yes, they won’t turn a sick cat into an excellent jumper and runner, but they can improve the quality of life and assist with mobility. At the same time, if there is a limited budget for purchasing supplements, one can opt for either food with joint supplements or a raw diet with the addition of natural ingredients. It is undoubtedly less effective, but better than nothing.

In any case, it is important to understand that joint supplements are only part of a strategy aimed at preserving joint health. They are a complement to a balanced diet and maintaining a normal weight for the animal, so as not to put excessive strain on the joints. Only a comprehensive approach will yield noticeable results.