Learn symptoms of some common cat illnesses, as you may find it helpful when dealing with your kitty. At times you must become a cat detective. Cats cannot tell us when they are not feeling well, so we must watch for subtle signs of discomfort. Because a cat does not have an emotional relationship with its discomfort, kitty will tend to accept this change as the new normal. At times a cat can become extremely ill before you realize anything is wrong.
Be cognizant of your cat’s behavior. Be aware of what is normal. When something seems off, be watchful for signs that kitty is ill. For example, watch for respiratory issues. It’s not uncommon for cats to sneeze or cough from time to time, but if it becomes frequent or severe, there could be a problem like a respiratory infection. Changes in breathing, like rapid or labored breaths, also need attention ASAP.
The digestive system can go awry, and often gastric symptoms can be an indicator that something is wrong. Is kitty vomiting or having diarrhea more often than usual? Sometimes these symptoms are harmless, but if they persist, do investigate. Has there been a change in appetite? This change can be either eating more or losing interest in food. Such changes could be the sign of a problem.
Various cat illnesses have varying symptoms. Below are the top 5 cat illnesses you should be aware of.
Here Are 5 Cat Illnesses You Should Know About
Feline Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)
You may not realize it, but feline upper respiratory infections (URI) can be a widespread problem. The cause is viral or bacterial and involve the nose and throat. The cat may have cold-like symptoms, such as stuffy nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. When this infection is severe, kitty may have difficulty breathing.
Such an infection is acquired by direct contact with another infected cat or environmental exposure to contaminated objects, such as food and water bowls, litter box, toys or bedding. The infection can be treated symptomatically at home. Standard core vaccines can protect against these infections: FVR (feline viral rhinotracheitis) or FCV (feline calcivirus.)
A clean environment and keeping your feline friend away from others when sick help keep these infections at bay.
Feline Obesity
The reason why obesity is a big deal is that an obese cat is more prone to joint issues, diabetes, and other health problems. You can make a world of difference if you keep an eye on kitty’s diet and encourage play. If you need advice on how to manage your cat’s weight, ask your vet for advice.
Chronic Kidney Disease
This disease is a problem especially with older cats. The kidneys flush out toxins and help with red blood cell production. As the kidneys lose the ability to function, symptoms will appear, such as increased thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite and weight loss. If you think your cat may have kidney disease, your vet can test for this health problem.
While kidney disease cannot be cured, it can be managed well. Consult your vet for proper care, a suitable diet, and sometimes medication.
Feline Diabetes
Feline Diabetes, or diabetes mellitus is showing up more frequently. With this disease, obese cats are more at risk. The diabetic cat will often have a voracious appetite but still lose weight. The cat may drink and urinate more, or vomit more frequently. Your vet will need to do blood work to determine if diabetes is the problem.
Managing diabetes usually involves insulin, a monitored diet, and regular vet check-ups. A close partnership with your vet is crucial in managing your cat’s condition.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
Kitty may become quite uncomfortable if he has FLUTD. Symptoms include straining to urinate, blood in the urine, or urinating outside the box. Also, the cat may vocalize more and become restless.
The cause of FLUTD might be due to stress, genetics, diet, gender, or grooming habits. Dietary changes and stress reduction in the environment can prove helpful.
Some Basic Warning Signals That Kitty Has A Problem
It is hard to determine how a cat feels, as they are so good at hiding problems. Here is a general list of things to watch for that might indicate a problem:
- Vomiting frequently
- Loss of appetite or increased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Changes in breathing
- Eye, ear, or nose discharge
- Skin irritation or hair loss
- Increased vocalization
- Personality changes
- Limping
- Swelling
- Bad breath
If you see one or a number of these problems arising, you need to investigate. First, one way to avoid their occurrence is to get regular checkups from your vet. Ensure that kitty has a healthy diet and make sure to take steps to prevent parasites. Provide a good home atmosphere that is happy and stress-free. Keep kitty’s litter box clean and make sure to provide fresh water.
Treatment Options: What Every Cat Owner Should Have on Their Radar
Veterinary care offers a variety of treatments. Traditionally, a vet might use antibiotics, antihistamines, and other medications. Sometimes surgery becomes necessary as a life-saving option. In situations involving tumors or severe injuries, surgery may be your best choice.
Exploring holistic approaches can offer additional support alongside traditional methods. Acupuncture might be something you wouldn’t expect for a cat, but it can provide relief, especially for chronic conditions. Herbal remedies and massage therapies also have their place in holistic care, offering comfort and relieving stress.
Staying informed about the latest advances in veterinary medicine can give your cat a leading edge in treatment. Gene therapy is an emerging field that shows promise. While not mainstream yet, it’s good to talk with your vet about cutting-edge treatments that might be suitable for your feline friend’s condition.
Diet and exercise remain fundamental in managing and treating cat illnesses. A specific diet tailored to your cat’s illness can boost treatment effectiveness. Regular playtime isn’t just about fun; it’s crucial for keeping your cat active, enhancing both physical and mental health. Engaging your cat with toys or interactive games can be a simple yet effective way to help them stay fit.
Preventative Care: Ensuring a Long, Healthy Life for Your Feline Friend
If you can catch potential health issues early, you are ahead of the game. Be sure to arrange regular vet visits so a professional can monitor kitty’s health. The vet can administer necessary vaccines and offer advice on nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Keeping up with your cat’s vaccination schedule is essential for warding off common and sometimes deadly diseases. These vaccines are a simple way to prevent illnesses that could seriously affect your cat’s quality of life.
Set a goal from the time you first add your kitty to the family to prevent obesity. Make sure you are providing a balanced diet and that the cat gets adequate exercise. You will reduce the risk of related health problems like diabetes and joint pain. Keep meal portions small and provide engaging activities to help keep kitty healthy.
Always strive to create a safe environment to protect your cat from potential hazards both in and out of the house. Of course, you want your fur baby to live the good life — just do your best to be sure it is a safe and healthy one!
References I used for this post:
https://www.thesprucepets.com/signs-your-cat-is-sick-4165142
https://www.firstvet.com/us/articles/common-diseases-in-cats
https://www.vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-upper-respiratory-infection