Signs Of Illness In Cats

Kitties are indeed mysterious. 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, there are still a few mysteries we may never fully understand, such as why they make clicking noises when they encounter birds, why they are so obsessed with boxes, and why they are always so sleepy. We do know that these lovely little balls of fur can be rather covert about their illness. It’s important to keep a close eye on your kitty, and watch for signs that something is wrong. A local Brampton, ON veterinarian answers some common questions about this below.

How Do Cats Act When Sick?

Our feline companions are all unique. (Actually, that is a bit of an understatement. Each cat is a little different. You’ll want to 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. Fluffy may also flee to her usual hiding hole if someone brings a dog around or drops a kitchen pan. However, if your feline companion is generally pleasant and friendly, but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there may be an issue.

Here are a few such examples:

• A talkative kitty suddenly stops meowing.
• A peaceful cat begins yowling.
• Cats can become distant and refuse attention, or get super affectionate. Typically, if Fluffy starts acting the opposite way from how she usually does, you’d want to take notice.
• A pleasant cat becomes grumpy/aggressive or vice versa.

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
• Respiratory infection
• 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 and 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. Some problems are not always prevented, but they can typically be addressed with treatment. Of course, the sooner a problem is identified and addressed, the better.

Why Do Cats Hide Signs of Illness?

As you may be aware, our feline friends can be a little problematic here. They frequently try to disguise indicators that they are sick. This is essentially a very deeply-entrenched survival instinct. Predators in the wild 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.

What Are Some Signs of Sickness in Cats?

Without further ado, here are some of the most typical things to look for.

Lethargy

While some cats appear to view lethargy as a life goal, even the most sleepy kitty should be attentive and awake at least a few times a day. If Fluffy appears to be lacking energy, there could be a problem.

Increased Thirst

Excessive thirst can suggest 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.

Breathing Problems

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.

Lack 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.

Increased Appetite

However, 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 signals that should be taken seriously in practically all of our animal friends, regardless of age. This can indicate many conditions, including parasites, inflammation, and other difficulties. It can also swiftly cause dehydration. Constipation is also a worry, but it can be challenging to detect, especially if your pet’s litterbox is in a private place.

Vomiting

It is generally 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.

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.

Skin/Coat Problems

It is fairly common for senior cats to appear disheveled. Seniors frequently struggle with grooming, because they become stiff and uncomfortable and have a hard time keeping up with those beauty sessions. If your cat’s fur appears dull, or if you observe redness, flaking, sores, or bald spots, call your Brampton, ON veterinarian immediately.

Changes in Vocalization and/Or Uncharacteristic Behavior

One of cats’ most endearing characteristics is their chattiness. Keep an eye (or ear) out for changes in your pet’s normal vocalizations. If Fluffy is generally calm but 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 also not be feeling well.

Bad Breath

Fluffy’s breath will most likely never smell minty-fresh, but it should not be totally foul. This can indicate dental concerns as well as internal disorders.

Litterbox woes

Cleaning your cat’s litterbox is never the most pleasant 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 Changes

Our feline companions are relatively small, so even a pound or two increase or loss can indicate serious health problems. Pay care to your furry buddy’s weight!

Visible 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 Brampton, ON pet hospital, right away!

Make An Appointment At Our Brampton, ON Animal Clinic

Do you have any queries concerning your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local Brampton, ON pet hospital, at any time. We are dedicated to providing excellent care.