Common Signs Of Illness In Cats

Kitties are surely mysterious. We’ve known Fluffy for a long time, perhaps up to 12,000 years. While we’ve learned a lot about our feline companions, there are still a few puzzling things about them that we may never fully solve, such as why they make clicking noises when they encounter birds, why they are so obsessed with boxes, and why they are always so, so sleepy. One thing we do know is that these lovely little balls of fur is the fact that they can be rather covert about showing signs of illness. You might have to pay close attention to spot some of the signs that something is wrong. A local Dumbo, Brooklyn veterinarian answers some common questions about this below.

How Do Cats Act When They Feel Sick?

Our feline companions are all unique. (Actually, that is a bit of an understatement.) Each kitty is a little different. You’ll want to pay attention to any behavior that appears out of character for your feline friend. 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 However, if your feline companion is generally pleasant and gregarious, but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there may be an issue.

Here are a few other examples:

• A talkative kitty that suddenly stops meowing.
• A peaceful cat that begins yowling.
• A clingy cat that becomes distant.
• An aloof kitty demanding attention.
• A pleasant cat acting grumpy/aggressive.

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

What Are Some Of The Most Common Illnesses For Cats?

Kitties are usually quite resilient, 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
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
• Cancer
• Kidney Disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Tapeworms
• Fleas
• Obesity
• Ringworm
• Dental Disease
• Eye Issues
• Feline Infectious Peritonitis
• Feline Panleukopenia
• Heartworm
• Abscesses
• Intestinal Parasites
• Lymphoma
• Pancreatitis
• Urinary Infections
• Gastrointestinal Issues

Keeping up with your cat’s preventative and wellness care will protect her from a variety of ailments. Some problems cannot always be avoided, but they can typically be addressed with treatment. Of course, the sooner a problem is identified and addressed, the better.

Why Does Fluffy Hide Signs of Illness?

As you may be aware, our feline friends can be problematic here. They frequently try to cover up indications that they are sick. This is a very deeply entrenched survival instinct. Predators in the wild are always on the lookout for animals that appear weak, as they are often easy prey. Fluffy learned long ago that displaying signs of illness can draw unwanted attention from those predators.

What Are Some Of The Signs of Sickness in Cats?

While cats are all unique, it’s also important to remember that different illnesses cause different symptoms. That said, there are some common ones. 

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

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 is completely lacking energy, there could be a problem.

Increased Thirst

Excessive thirst can be suggestive of a variety of conditions, including diabetes and kidney disease. 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.

Litterbox Woes

Cleaning your cat’s litterbox is never going to be 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.

Vomiting

It usually is not a big deal if Fluffy throws 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 also immediate concerns.

Changes In Appetite

Kitties can be picky, but if Fluffy just does not like what you put in her bowl, she should meow for something different. A total disinterest in food is a red flag.

A sudden rise in appetite can be a cause for concern as well. Our feline friends are usually rather fond of food, to say the least, 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 health or 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 more difficult to detect, especially if your pet’s litterbox is in a private place.

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 furry friend’s normal vocalizations. If Fluffy is generally calm but suddenly 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 completely nasty. This can indicate dental concerns as well as internal disorders.

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. Elderly kitties frequently struggle with grooming, because they tend to become stiff and uncomfortable over time and have trouble reaching their whole bodies. 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 Dumbo, Brooklyn veterinarian immediately.

Weight Changes

Our feline companions are relatively little, so even a pound or two increase or loss can indicate serious health problems. Pay attention to your pet’s weight!

Visible Injuries

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 Dumbo, Brooklyn pet hospital, right away!

Make An Appointment At Our Dumbo, Brooklyn Pet Clinic

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