Signs Of Illness In Kitties

Kitties are quite 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 of their secrets we may never fully understand, such as why they make clicking noises when they encounter birds, why they are obsessed with boxes, and why they are always sleepy. We do know that these lovely little balls of fur may be rather covert about their illness. You’ll need to keep a close eye out! A local Nye County, NV 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.) 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 However, if your feline companion is generally pleasant and gregarious, but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there may be an issue.

Here are a few such examples:

• A talkative cat suddenly stops meowing.
• A quiet kitty begins yowling.
• Cats can become uncharacteristically distant or affectionate.
• A pleasant cat becomes grumpy/aggressive.

The more you get to know Fluffy, the easier it will be to notice the changes in her normal (for her) purrsonality and behavior.

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 Issues
• Cancer
• Kidney disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Tapeworms
• Fleas
• Obesity
• Ringworm
• Dental disease
• Eye issues
• Feline infectious peritonitis
• Feline Panleukopenia
• Heartworm
• Rabies 
• Abscesses
• Lymphoma
• Pancreatitis
• Urinary infections
• Gastrointestinal issues

Keeping up with your cat’s preventative and wellness care can help her avoid a variety of ailments. Some problems are not really preventable, but can 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 secretive 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 Signs of Sickness in Cats?

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

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 another story.

Increased Appetite

A sudden rise in appetite can also 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 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 cats appear to view 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 interspersed with periods of zoomies. 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 help with tracking this.

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. Discharge from the ears and/or nether regions is also cause for concern.

Skin/Coat Problems

It is common for aging cats to appear disheveled. Seniors frequently struggle with self-grooming because they become stiff and sore. However, most kitties are diligent about keeping up with their beauty needs. If your feline friend’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. (Note: Fluffy may have deliberately chosen a sound that resembles that of a human baby just to tug at our heartstrings.) 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 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.

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.

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 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 Nye County, NV pet hospital, right away!

Make An Appointment At Our Nye County, NV Pet Clinic 

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