New survey raises concern that joint pain in cats may remain unnoticed as owners mistake reduced movement and increased sleep for normal ageing
SYDNEY, Australia, July 14, 2026: More than half of Australian cat owners may not realise that cats can develop osteoarthritis, according to new consumer research released today.
The research, commissioned by Zoetis Australia, found that 51% of cat owners were unaware that cats can suffer from osteoarthritis. Another 35% lacked a clear understanding of the signs to watch for.
Cats may hide signs of joint pain
Unlike dogs, cats may not show obvious limping. Changes can be much more difficult to notice.
The survey found that 25% of Australian cat owners believed slowing down, sleeping more or hesitating before jumping or using stairs were simply normal signs of ageing. Around 14% believed joint pain was a normal part of life for most cats. This creates a major problem for early diagnosis.
Research cited in the release estimates that osteoarthritis affects around 40% of cats overall and 60% of cats aged six years or older. Yet Australian veterinarians reported formally diagnosing the disease in only 17% of feline patients.
Nearly one million cat owners may delay veterinary visits
The survey also found that one in five Australian cat owners only take their cat to a veterinarian when something is obviously wrong. This was estimated to represent about 966,000 cat owners.
Middle-aged cats between six and 12 years may be particularly at risk of missed disease because they have fewer veterinary visits than younger and much older cats, according to the release.
Small behaviour changes may signal cat arthritis
Veterinary experts are asking owners to watch for changes such as sleeping more, grooming less, reduced interaction, difficulty using stairs and hesitation before jumping.
The new Australian findings highlight a simple but important animal health message: a cat becoming less active may not always be “just getting old”. It could be living with untreated joint pain.
The research adds to growing veterinary attention on feline osteoarthritis, chronic pain and earlier diagnosis in cats.
