Arthritis in Maine Coons: The Silent Pain of the Giant Breed#

Atticus is getting older. He doesn’t launch himself to the top of the fridge anymore. When he gets off the sofa, he slides down rather than leaping. For a Maine Coon, this isn’t just “slowing down”—it is almost certainly Osteoarthritis (OA).

Because Maine Coons are the heavyweights of the cat world (often weighing 20lbs+), their joints take a beating over 10-15 years. Unlike dogs, who whine or limp visibly, cats are masters of disguise. Evolution taught them to hide pain to avoid being eaten. If your senior Maine Coon is sleeping more and jumping less, they are likely in silent, chronic pain.

This guide covers everything I have learned about managing mobility issues in giant cats, from the newest injectable medications to how to “cat-proof” your home for a senior.

The “Hidden” Signs: How to Spot Pain#

You likely won’t see a limp until the arthritis is severe. You have to look for lifestyle changes.

1. The “Step” Instead of the Jump: If they pull themselves up the side of the bed with their claws instead of leaping, their hips hurt.
2. Missing the Litter Box: If they poop right next to the box, it’s often because the sides are too high to step over comfortably. They associate the box with the pain of climbing in. (See my Litter Box Guide for low-entry fixes).
3. Matting on the Lower Back: If they stop grooming the base of their tail, it’s because their spine is too stiff to turn around. Greasy fur on the hips is a classic sign of spinal arthritis.
4. The “Grumpy” Mood: If a normally affectionate cat suddenly hisses when you pick them up or brush their hips, that is a pain response.

The Medical Revolution: Solensia#

For years, treating cat arthritis was a nightmare. We couldn’t give them NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen) because it kills their kidneys. We were stuck with supplements and Gabapentin (which just makes them sleepy).

Enter Solensia (Frunevetmab).

• What it is: It is a monthly injection (monoclonal antibody) that targets the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). It effectively “turns off” the pain signal for arthritis.
• The Results: I have seen 14-year-old Maine Coons start playing like kittens again after two doses. It is widely considered the biggest breakthrough in feline pain management in 20 years.
• The Cost: Expect to pay $80–$100 per month at your vet.

The “Amelia” Supplement Stack#

While Solensia treats the pain, you still need to support the cartilage. I treat Atticus like a retired NFL linebacker.

1. Glucosamine & Chondroitin: These are the building blocks of cartilage. I use Cosequin or Dasuquin capsules. I break them open and sprinkle the powder into his wet food.
2. Green Lipped Mussel: A powerful natural anti-inflammatory from New Zealand shellfish.
3. Omega-3 Fish Oil: High-quality salmon or krill oil reduces inflammation system-wide. It also helps with the dry skin that seniors often get.

Environmental Modifications: The “Retirement Home” Setup#

You need to change your house to accommodate their stiffness.

• Pet Stairs & Ramps: Put foam steps next to the bed and the sofa. The impact of landing a 20lb body from 3 feet high is devastating to arthritic elbows.
• Heated Beds: Warmth soothes stiff joints. A self-heating thermal mat or a low-voltage pet heating pad is a luxury they deserve.
• Raised Bowls: Elevate their food bowls by 4-6 inches so they don’t have to crouch and strain their neck/shoulders to eat.
• Carpet Runners: If you have hardwood floors, your senior cat might slip. Slipping hurts. Put down yoga mats or carpet runners in high-traffic areas to give them traction.

Conclusion#

Arthritis is inevitable for big cats, but suffering is optional. If you suspect your giant is hurting, ask your vet for a “pain trial” (a week of pain meds). If your cat suddenly acts years younger, you have your diagnosis. Managing their pain isn’t just about comfort; it extends their life by keeping them active.

Resources & Further Reading#

• Zoetis: Understanding Solensia for Cats.
• Cornell Feline Health Center: Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease.
• Tufts University: Pain Management for Senior Cats.