Warning Signs Of Illness In Cats

Our feline buddies are certainly mysterious little balls of fur. We’ve known Fluffy for a long time, perhaps up to 12,000 years. While we’ve learned a lot about our feline companions in that time, there are still a few mysteries we may never fully understand, such as why they make clicking noises when they see birds, why they are obsessed with boxes, and why they are always so tired. We do know that these lovely little balls of fur do have a tendency to be rather covert about their illness. You might have to pay close attention to see some of the signs that something is wrong. A local Ellicott City, MD veterinarian answers some common questions about this below.

What Illnesses Are Most Common In 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
• Respiratory Issues
• Cancer
• Kidney Disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Tapeworms
• Fleas
• Obesity
• Ringworm
• Dental disease
• Eye issues
• 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 quite a few of these ailments. Some health problems are not always preventable, but can still be addressed with treatment. Of course, the sooner a problem is identified and addressed, the better. Make sure to bring your pet to the veterinary clinic regularly! 

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 from predators.

What Are Some Of The Common Signs of Sickness in Cats?

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

• 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 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.
• Lethargy: While some of our feline buddies apparently see lethargy as a life goal, even the most sleepy kitty should be attentive and awake at least a few times every day. Those long naps should also be counteracted by moments of zoomies. 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 might help with this.
• 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.
• Increased Appetite: A sudden rise in appetite can be a red flag. 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.
• Respiratory Issues: 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.
• 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 self-grooming because they become stiff and sore. However, most cats are fairly excellent 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 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 not feel well.
• Bad Breath: Fluffy’s breath will most likely never smell minty-fresh, but it should not kill plants. This can indicate dental concerns as well as internal disorders.
• Litterbox Woes: Cleaning your cat’s 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 immediately: this could indicate 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 pet’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 immediately.

If you observe any of these warning signs or any other indication that your cat isn’t feeling well, please contact us, your Ellicott City, MD pet hospital, right away!

How Do Cats Act When Sick?

Our feline companions are all unique. (Actually, that is a bit of an understatement.) 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 outgoing, but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there may be an issue. Some other examples of this include a peaceful cat that begins yowling; a talkative kitty that suddenly stops meowing; a normally-distant furball demanding attention; or an affectionate one not wanting to be touched. 

The more you get to know your feline pal, the easier it will be to notice the changes. Pay close attention to your kitty!

Make An Appointment At Our Ellicott City, MD Animal Clinic

Do you have any queries concerning your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local Ellicott City, MD pet hospital, anytime. We are dedicated to providing excellent care and great customer service.