The lack of recognition of arthritis pain in cats is severe enough that by one estimate, less than one percent of cats with arthritis pain are seen by veterinarians. Researchers came up with a six-question, one-minute survey with simple “yes” or “no” answers for cat owners to see if their cat might have arthritis and decide if the pet needs to see a veterinarian.
Source: Tufts Catnip, June 17, 2021. Link. The questionnaire has been verified to have remarkable sensitivity and specificity and would tag more than half of cats suffering from arthritis pain that otherwise might have gone unnoticed.
INSIGHTS: Feline arthritis pain is widespread but undetected. Consider using this tool as part of feline telehealth interactions. It can also be used in social media and newsletters.