Watching your cat deal with pain can be heartbreaking and can leave you feeling helpless, not knowing how to comfort them. Traditionally, we think of treating pain with medications. But there are many other ways to treat pain, including natural pain relief for cats, that can be used alone or in conjunction with pain medications. If you are concerned that your cat may be in pain, start with a veterinary appointment. The veterinarian will do a physical exam and possibly some tests to determine the cause and severity of pain. Once your cat’s doctor determines the cause, they can put together a treatment plan to help or even resolve the pain. This is a good time to discuss using multiple types of pain control, including natural pain relief. This can be especially helpful when treating chronic pain such as arthritis. Natural Pain Relief Options for Cats When treating pain and inflammation in cats, omega fatty acids and glucosamine can be used in addition to, or in lieu of, traditional pain medications. Heat/ice, laser therapy, chiropractics, physical therapy, massage, and acupuncture can also be very helpful in treating cat pain. In many cases, these services may even be provided in your own home. There are also many ways to modify your home and your cat’s space to better accommodate them. Supplements Check with your veterinarian before adding a supplement to your cat’s diet. These substances, unlike prescription medications, are not regulated by the FDA. This means that they can be sold without any proof of their effectiveness or safety. There is also no guarantee of consistent reported ingredients. Cats are more susceptible to plant-based toxicity than humans and dogs, so be cautious when selecting supplements for your cat. Omega Fatty Acids According to the National Research Council (NRC) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), dietary fats and fatty acids are essential in the diets of cats. They provide energy, modulate inflammation, help in fat-soluble vitamin absorption, and promote healthy growth and development, along with many other health benefits. The type and amount of fatty acids in your cat’s diet make a difference. For example, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are required in a cat’s diet because cats cannot produce these fats on their own: Omega-6 essential fatty acids: linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA) Omega-3 essential fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) EPA and DHA are found primarily in marine sources such as fish oil. Plant-based oils are sources of LA and ALA, and AA is typically derived from animal fat. Feeding an AAFCO-aligned commercial diet should provide all the essential fatty acids your cat needs. You can give your cat fatty acid supplements as well, but always consult with your veterinarian beforehand. The type and amount given to your cat can improve or impair their health, depending on their current health condition and symptoms. For example, fish oil can potentially help with inflammatory skin disease, arthritis, cancer, hyperlipidemia, and even heart disease if given in the right circumstances in the right amount. Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate Glucosamine and chondroitin are often used together in commercial supplements for cats. This combination can help with arthritis and feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Glucosamine is a mild anti-inflammatory. It helps the joints make cartilage and acts as extra protection for the urinary tract. Chondroitin helps make cartilage as well and can even inhibit destruction of cartilage. Despite limited studies of these supplements in animals, there is strong anecdotal evidence that they may be helpful. Your veterinarian can help recommend specific products.
