🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Cat Care Products

Struggling With Cat Litter Tracking? Try a Joint Supplement

If your cat misses the box due to joint pain, improving mobility with Cosequin can reduce litter scatter. Compare 5 top joint supplements for cats.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax ★ Top Pick: Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax Check Price on Amazon →
1 in 3
cats over 10 years old show signs of arthritis
60%
of cat owners report improved mobility with joint supplements
4 to 8 weeks
typical time to see noticeable improvement
2 forms
chews and capsules are most common for cats
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax. Cosequin is a well-researched joint supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin.
  • Best with MSM: Dasuquin with MSM for Cats by Nutramax. Dasuquin adds MSM to the glucosamine/chondroitin base, which may enhance anti-inflammatory.
  • Best Budget: VetriScience GlycoFlex 3 for Cats. GlycoFlex 3 offers a blend of glucosamine, Perna canaliculus, and antioxidants at a lower.
  • Best Tasting: Zesty Paws Mobility Bites for Cats. These soft chews are flavored with duck and are often eagerly eaten.
  • Best Value: PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint for Cats. PetNC offers a straightforward glucosamine and chondroitin formula in chewable tablets.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax Best Overall Check price →
Dasuquin with MSM for Cats by Nutramax Best with MSM Check price →
VetriScience GlycoFlex 3 for Cats Best Budget Check price →
Zesty Paws Mobility Bites for Cats Best Tasting Check price →
PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint for Cats Best Value Check price →

Quick answer

The best pick is Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax, a well-known joint supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin that many cats tolerate well. If your cat resists capsules, try Dasuquin with MSM soft chews. For a budget option, consider VetriScience GlycoFlex 3.

What to consider for Cat Joint Supplement For Cats That Track Litter

Cats that track litter may have mobility issues making it hard to enter/exit the box or maintain balance. Look for supplements that support joint health and reduce inflammation. Ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial. Also consider the form: capsules, chews, or powders. Some cats prefer flavored chews; others need a powder to mix with food. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement.

What to look for in a cat grooming tool or toy

When choosing a grooming tool or toy for a cat with joint issues, prioritize gentle handling. For grooming, a soft-bristle brush or a grooming glove can be less intimidating and easier on sore joints. For toys, choose lightweight, easy-to-bat items like crinkle balls or wand toys with soft ends. Ensure materials are non-toxic and free of small parts that could be swallowed. Size matters: larger toys are easier for stiff paws to interact with. Enrichment value is key; puzzle feeders can encourage gentle movement without strain.

How we chose these picks

  • Reviewed ingredient lists for proven joint-supporting compounds
  • Considered product forms that are easy to administer to cats
  • Checked for third-party testing or quality certifications
  • Read customer feedback on palatability and effectiveness
  • Evaluated price per serving for value
  • Consulted veterinary nutritional guidelines
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Avoid supplements with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
  • Do not use human joint supplements as they may contain harmful doses of ingredients
  • Skip products with excessive fillers like corn or wheat
  • Never give your cat more than the recommended dosage
  • Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed

For more cat care advice, visit our cat guides, cat health, and cat care products sections.

Why this matters

Cats with joint issues often track litter due to difficulty stepping into the box; a joint supplement can improve mobility and reduce litter scatter.

The Options

Types Explained

Capsules

Powder inside a capsule that can be opened and sprinkled on food. Often unflavored.

Best for: Cats that eat wet food and don't mind a slight texture change.

Soft Chews

Tasty, chewable treats with joint-supporting ingredients. Usually flavored with chicken or fish.

Best for: Picky cats who refuse capsules or powders.

Tablets

Hard compressed pills that may need to be crushed or hidden in food.

Best for: Owners who prefer a traditional pill form and have a cat that can be pilled.

Liquid or Powder

Liquid or powder that can be mixed into wet food or water.

Best for: Cats that are difficult to pill or prefer their food altered.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax
Best Overall

Cosequin for Cats by Nutramax

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Cosequin is a well-researched joint supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin. It comes in capsule form that can be sprinkled on food. Many cat owners report improved mobility. However, some cats dislike the taste, and it may take a few weeks to see results.

Check Price on Amazon →
#2
Dasuquin with MSM for Cats by Nutramax
Best with MSM

Dasuquin with MSM for Cats by Nutramax

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Dasuquin adds MSM to the glucosamine/chondroitin base, which may enhance anti-inflammatory effects. The soft chews are palatable for many cats. A downside is the higher price point, and some cats still refuse the chews.

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#3
VetriScience GlycoFlex 3 for Cats
Best Budget

VetriScience GlycoFlex 3 for Cats

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GlycoFlex 3 offers a blend of glucosamine, Perna canaliculus, and antioxidants at a lower cost. The chicken-flavored chews are generally well-accepted. However, it contains fewer active ingredients than premium options, and results may be slower.

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#4
Zesty Paws Mobility Bites for Cats
Best Tasting

Zesty Paws Mobility Bites for Cats

View on Amazon

These soft chews are flavored with duck and are often eagerly eaten. They include glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s. A limitation is that they contain some fillers, and the serving size may be two chews per day, which can be pricey.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint for Cats
Best Value

PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint for Cats

View on Amazon

PetNC offers a straightforward glucosamine and chondroitin formula in chewable tablets. It is very affordable. However, some cats may not like the taste, and the tablets are harder to hide in food compared to powders or soft chews.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Active Ingredients

Look for glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids. These support joint health and reduce inflammation.

02

Form and Palatability

Cats can be picky. Choose a form (chew, capsule, powder) your cat will accept. Flavored chews often work best.

03

Quality and Safety

Opt for brands with third-party testing or manufactured in FDA-registered facilities. Avoid unnecessary fillers.

04

Dosage and Ease of Use

Consider how often you need to give the supplement. Some require multiple chews per day; others are once daily.

05

Price per Serving

Compare cost per dose. Higher price doesn't always mean better quality, but very cheap products may lack efficacy.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Introducing a New Supplement

Start with a small amount mixed into your cat's favorite food. Monitor for any digestive upset. Gradually increase to the full dose over a week.

Consistency is Key

Joint supplements work best when given daily. Set a routine, such as mixing with breakfast. Missed doses can reduce effectiveness.

Storage and Freshness

Store supplements in a cool, dry place. Check expiration dates. Some chews may harden if exposed to air; keep the container sealed.

Pro tip

To make supplement administration easier, try hiding a capsule's powder in a small amount of tuna juice or a pill pocket treat.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I groom my cat?
For short-haired cats, weekly brushing is usually sufficient. Long-haired cats may need daily grooming to prevent mats. Cats with joint issues may benefit from shorter, more frequent sessions to avoid discomfort. Always use a soft brush and be gentle around sensitive areas.
What are deshedding tools and are they safe?
Deshedding tools like the Furminator remove loose undercoat hair. They are safe when used correctly, but avoid over-brushing as it can irritate the skin. Use gentle strokes and stop if your cat shows signs of discomfort. For cats with joint pain, a grooming glove may be a better option.
How can I groom a cat with sensitive skin?
Use a soft-bristle brush or a silicone grooming glove. Avoid metal combs or tools with sharp edges. Brush in the direction of hair growth and apply light pressure. If your cat has skin conditions, consult a veterinarian before grooming.
What materials are safe for cat toys?
Look for toys made from non-toxic materials like natural rubber, cotton rope, or certified organic catnip. Avoid toys with small plastic parts, buttons, or loose strings that can be swallowed. Always supervise play with any toy that has string or feathers.
Are interactive toys better than solo toys for cats?
Interactive toys, such as wand toys, provide bonding and mental stimulation. Solo toys like puzzle feeders or treat balls are great for independent play. A mix of both is ideal. For cats with joint issues, interactive play should be gentle and low-impact.
Do I need to supervise my cat with string toys?
Yes, always supervise your cat with string, ribbon, or wand toys. Cats can ingest string, which can cause intestinal blockages. After play, store these toys out of reach. Replace any frayed strings immediately.
What kind of scratcher is best for a cat with arthritis?
A horizontal cardboard scratcher or a low-angle ramp scratcher is easier for arthritic cats to use. Avoid tall vertical posts that require stretching. Place the scratcher near your cat's favorite resting spots to encourage use.
How can I encourage a cat with joint pain to play?
Use lightweight toys that are easy to bat, such as crinkle balls or soft mice. Keep play sessions short (5 to 10 minutes) and let your cat set the pace. Avoid high jumps or sudden movements. Puzzle feeders can also provide gentle mental stimulation.
Can joint supplements cause side effects in cats?
Some cats may experience mild digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, when starting a supplement. This often resolves within a few days. If side effects persist, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian. Always follow dosage instructions.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cat Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.