How to Tell If Your Cat's Rear Quarters Are Healthy

The supplements glucosamine and chondroitin are commonly recommended and are combined in the product Cosequin (R).9

The back legs, paws, and claws are as important as those in the front. Their strength enables the cat to push forward and quickly reach a high speed for pursuing prey or running from predators. The back claws are powerful for delivering painful "rabbit kicks," both in play and in self-protection. Although front claws should be clipped routinely, it is not recommended to clip the back claws of cats that spend time outdoors, because of their use for protection.

The body of a healthy cat is poetry in motion. It is the perfect balance of form and function, with the bonus of beauty and grace. Your charge when you take cats into your home is to make sure that they receive a wholesome, nutritious diet, an adequate exercise in the form of play, and a planned program of veterinary care, to help ensure that they stay healthy for as long as possible.