Overview
- A UC Davis review and trial published June 8–9, 2026 found signs of degenerative joint disease in roughly 6–30% of cats under ten and between 64–92% of cats over ten.
- Study authors say cats are biologically wired to hide pain, so owners often mistake stiffness or reduced jumping for normal ageing and do not seek veterinary checks.
- The telehealth trial recruited 106 owners and assigned half to six in-home video calls over four months during which trained staff observed mobility and recommended simple changes to the home.
- Owners who took part reported greater confidence caring for their cats and more than 95% said they would be willing to pay for telehealth consultations, showing demand for remote support.
- Animal charities have issued welfare alerts urging owners to learn the signs and seek vet advice, and UC Davis researchers plan a follow-up study to measure which specific home modifications deliver measurable wellbeing gains while stressing telehealth is a supplement to clinical care.