Feline Spinal Spondylosis

As we age, we get more familiar with spinal degeneration, which presents itself in each person differently, from slight pain and stiffness to conditions that require surgery.  This process is very similar in cats as they age, too.  One very common form of feline spinal degeneration is called spondylosis deformans, which is the development of bone spurs on the spine.  BCR cats Bear and Popcorn have developed this condition, which typically happens in older cats but can also be caused by recurring pressure on the same joints, a trauma to the body or by genetic predisposition.

What happens with spondylosis is that bone spurs (called osteophytes) form along the edge of a cat's backbone.  They do this because there is degeneration in the protective discs that cover the spinal vertebrae.  As they break down, the spurs form to try and stabilize the spine and can even join up in the middle to form a bridge over the space between vertebrae.

A watchful cat parent will always be on the lookout for unusual behavior in their cats, so for spondylosis, they might see these things, according to wagwalking.com:

• Lameness
• Stiffness
• Reduced flexiblity of the spine
• Yowling when touched on the back.

If bone spurs are present in your cat, you might be able to feel them when you pet your cat along his back before he shows any stiffness or lameness.  In many cases cats don't show the symptoms at all, so if you feel something you believe might be unusual or abnormal for your cat, call your veterinarian right away.

To diagnose this condition, your vet will do a thorough physical exam, bloodwork and will need to take X-ray images.  The vet may also want to do additional imaging, an MRI, CT scan or a myelography, which is an injection of a radiopaque substance, to be certain of the diagnosis.  In some cases the vet may refer you to an orthopedic specialist.  As always, a vet who has a thorough history of your cat's health will start this process ahead of the game.

So, how is spondylosis treated?  There isn't one specific drug or treatment that can stop it from developing.  If the spurs have built up enough to be causing nerve pain, the vet may recommend pain relievers or accupuncture, which has been shown to relieve pain.  Whether your cat is just starting to develop spondylosis or is farther along with it, your vet will schedule regular follow up visits to monitor the condition closely. 

Even with spondylosis, your cat can live comfortably at home with the appropriate pain management and regular check-ups with your vet.  As is true with everything related to a cat's health, you should watch for any changes in your cat's routine, physical activity, appetite and normal patterns. 

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