Fluffy has been one of our best buddies for a long time, possibly up to 12,000 years. While we’ve learned a lot about our feline companions over the course of all those years, there are still things we may never fully understand about them, such as why they make clicking noises when they encounter birds, why they are obsessed with boxes, and why they are always so sleepy. One thing we do know? These lovely little balls of fur may be rather covert about showing signs of illness. A local Hiawassee, GA veterinarian answers some common questions about this below.
What Are Some Signs of Sickness in Cats?
Without further ado, here are some of the most typical things to look for.
Skin/Coat Problems
It is fairly uncommon for senior cats to appear disheveled, because they become stiff and uncomfortable over time, which makes grooming hard. However, most cats are pretty good at keeping up with this. If your cat’s fur appears dull, or if you observe redness, flaking, sores, or bald spots, call your veterinarian immediately.
Changes In Vocalization And Behavior
One of the most endearing characteristics of cats is their charming vocalizations. Keep an eye (or ear) out for changes in your pet’s normal chatter. If Fluffy won’t stop meowing, she may be attempting to communicate pain. A feline who is typically highly talkative but suddenly acts withdrawn and quiet may not be feeling well.
Bad Breath
Fluffy’s breath will most likely never smell minty-fresh, but it should not be absolutely nasty. This can indicate dental concerns as well as internal disorders.
Increased Appetite
A sudden rise in appetite can be cause for concern. Our feline friends are usually rather fond of food, but if your feline buddy suddenly appears to be a bottomless pit, there could be an underlying condition, such as hyperthyroidism.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the few warning signs that should be taken seriously in practically all of our animal friends, regardless of age. This can indicate a multitude of conditions, including parasites, inflammation, and other difficulties. It can also swiftly cause dehydration. Constipation is also a worry, but it can be difficult to detect, especially if your pet’s litterbox is in a private place.
Discharge
The occasional eye ‘booger’ is normally not a cause for alarm, but profuse, goopy, or discolored discharge from the eyes is another story. A runny nose is also unusual for cats and may indicate respiratory problems. The discharge from the ears is also cause for concern.
Vomiting
It is normally not a big deal if Fluffy spits up every now and then. Many of our feline friends experience the occasional hairball. However, frequent vomiting is a significant problem. Dry heaving, bloody or foamy vomit, and any other form of unusual vomiting are additional concerns.
Loss Of Appetite
Kitties can be picky, but if Fluffy just does not like what you put in her bowl, she should meow to request something different. A total disinterest in food is a red indicator.
Lethargy
While some cats appear to prefer lethargy as a life goal, even the sleepiest kitty should be attentive and awake at least a few times every day. If Fluffy appears to be completely lacking energy, there could be a problem.
Increased Thirst
Excessive thirst can be suggestive of a variety of conditions, including diabetes and kidney illness. Fluffy should always have access to fresh water. Keep an eye on how much she drinks. Filling her bowls at consistent times throughout the day can assist with this.
Respiratory Trouble
Gasping, coughing, wheezing, fast breathing, shortness of breath, and harsh breathing are all warning signs. These may necessitate emergency treatment, particularly if the problem develops quickly.
Signs of Trauma
Sometimes it’s clear that something is awry. Limping, fever, cuts, lesions, and swelling are just a few examples of symptoms that should be treated right away.
If you observe any of these warning signs or any other indication that your cat isn’t feeling well, please contact us, your pet hospital, right away!
Litterbox Woes
Cleaning the litterbox is never the most enjoyable aspect of owning a cat, but it is important. Pay attention to what you discover in Fluffy’s powder room. Changes in the color, texture, odor, or volume of your cat’s excrement can all indicate health problems. If you notice your cat straining to go, call your veterinarian right away: this could be an indication of blockages, which are quite dangerous.
Weight Gain Or Loss
Our feline companions are relatively little, so even a pound or two increase or loss can indicate serious health problems. Pay care to your pet’s weight!
How Do Sick Cats Act?
Our feline companions are all unique. Pay attention to any behavior that appears out of character for your cat. It may be entirely normal for a shy cat to hide a lot. However, if your feline companion is generally pleasant and gregarious, but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there may be an issue.
Here are a few such examples:
- A pleasant cat becomes grumpy/aggressive.
- A talkative kitty suddenly stops meowing.
- A peaceful cat begins yowling.
The more you get to know Fluffy, the easier it will be to notice the changes. Pay close attention to your kitty!
What Are Some Of The Most Common Illnesses For Cats?
Kitties are usually quite tough, but they aren’t as invincible as they appear to believe. Fluffy is actually vulnerable to a wide range of illnesses and diseases.
Here are some of the more common ones:
- Diabetes
- Feline Immunodeficiency
- Felv
- Cancer
- Kidney Disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Tapeworms
- Fleas
- Obesity
- Ringworm
- Dental Disease
- Eye Issues
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis
- Feline Panleukopenia
- Heartworm
- Disorders Affecting The Lower Urinary Tract
- Rabies
- Abscesses
- Intestinal Parasites
- Lymphoma
- Pancreatitis
- Urinary Infections
- Gastrointestinal Issues
Keeping up with your cat’s preventative and wellness care will help her avoid a variety of ailments. Of course, the sooner a problem is identified and addressed, the better.
Ask your vet for more information.
Why Do Cats Tend To Hide Signs of Illness?
This is essentially a very deeply entrenched survival instinct. Predators are always on the lookout for animals that appear weak or unwell, as they can be easy prey. Fluffy learned long ago that displaying signs of illness can draw unwanted attention from predators, so she got into the habit of masking symptoms as much as possible. Unfortunately, this sometimes backfires, as you may not realize she’s ill until she’s quite sick.
Make An Appointment At Our Hiawassee, GA Pet Clinic
Do you have any queries concerning your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local Hiawassee, GA pet hospital, at any time. We are dedicated to providing excellent care.
