Cats bear 60% of their body weight in their front limbs; thus, shoulder health is essential. The shoulder connects the front limbs to the trunk and provides support for the front half of the body. Disruption of the normal gliding of the shoulder joint results in pain. Without intervention, arthritis settles in the joint. Shoulder pain may not be obvious in stoic cats; other cats may limp on the affected leg. A healthy body weight is the best insurance to minimize joint inflammation in your cat’s shoulders. Anti-inflammatory medications, nutritional supplements, physical therapy and/or surgery may be recommended by your veterinarian to keep the shoulder joints strong and mobile.