Kitties are definitely mysterious little furballs. Fluffy has been our second best friend for a very long time, possibly as much as 12,000 years. While we’ve learned a lot about our feline companions in that time, there are still a few things we don’t understand about them, such as why they are preoccupied with boxes, why they make clicking noises when they see birds, and why they are always so weary. We do know that these adorable little balls of fur can be rather secretive when it comes to letting on that they are sick. You’ll need to pay pretty close attention to your furry friend, and keep an eye out for red flags. A local Plano, TX veterinarian answers some often asked questions about this below.
Common Feline Illnesses
Kitties are normally fairly hardy, but they aren’t as invincible as they think. Fluffy is vulnerable to a wide range of illnesses and diseases.
Here are some of the most common:
- Diabetes
- Feline Immunodeficiency
- FeLV
- Cancer
- Kidney Disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Parasites
- Obesity
- Dental Disease
- Eye issues
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis
- Feline panleukopenia
- Heartworm
- Disorders of the lower urinary tract
- Rabies
- Abscesses
- Lymphoma
- Pancreatitis
- Urinary infection
- Gastrointestinal problems
Keeping up with Fluffy’s preventative and wellness care can help protect her from a variety of ailments. Some disorders are not always preventable, but they can frequently be treated with treatment. Of course, the earlier a problem is identified and diagnosed, the better.
Why Do Kitties Tend To Hide Signs Of Sickness?
As you may be aware, our feline companions can be a little secretive. They frequently try to disguise symptoms of illness. This is a really well-ingrained survival instinct. Predators are constantly on the lookout for animals that appear weak or unwell … because they make easy targets. Fluffy discovered long ago that revealing indications of illness can draw unwanted attention from predators.
What Are Some of the Signs of Cat Sickness?
Without further ado, here are some of the most typical things to watch for.
- Behavioral Changes
Each of our kitty friends is distinctively unique. (That is a bit of an understatement.) It may be perfectly normal for your pet to hiss at your slippers or steal chips out of the cupboard. You should keep an eye out for any behavior that is unusual for your cat. For example, a shy feline might normally hide a lot. If someone brings over a dog or drops a kitchen pan, Fluffy may flee to her usual hiding hole. However, if your feline companion is usually pleasant and outgoing but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there could be a problem.
Here are a few further examples:
- Noisy cats that abruptly cease meowing
- Peaceful cats that begin yowling
- Cuddly cats becoming aloof and/or refusing to be handled or petted
- Aloof kitties demanding attention
- Friendly cats acting grouchy or aggressive
The more familiar with Fluffy you are, the easier it will be to detect these changes. Pay attention to your feline pal, and really take time to get to know her.
- Vomiting
It’s usually not a big deal if Fluffy vomits every now and then. Many of our feline friends get the occasional hairball. However, frequent vomiting is a major issue. Dry heaving, bloody or foamy vomit, and any other form of atypical vomiting are also signs that your pet needs immediate veterinary care.
- Appetite Changes
Kitties can be picky, but if Fluffy doesn’t like what you placed in her bowl, she should simply meow to demand something else. A complete lack of interest in eating is a sign that something isn’t right.
On the other hand, a sudden rise in hunger can be problematic as well. If your feline friend suddenly has morphed into a meowing bottomless pit, there could be a problem, such as hyperthyroidism.
- Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the few warning symptoms that almost all of our animal companions, regardless of age, exhibit. It’s almost always a sign that something is wrong. This can be suggestive of a range of conditions, including parasites, inflammation, and other difficulties. It can also cause rapid dehydration. (Constipation is also a problem, but it can be difficult to detect, especially if your pet’s litterbox is in a private area.)
- Lethargy
While some cats appear to view lethargy as a way of life, even the most sleepy cat should be attentive and awake at least a few times every day. If Fluffy doesn’t appear to have any energy at all, there could be an issue.
- Excessive Thirst
Excessive thirst can indicate a variety of conditions, ranging from diabetes to kidney failure. Fluffy should have access to fresh water at all times. Just keep an eye on how much she drinks. (Filling her bowls at regular intervals throughout the day can help make this easier to track.)
- Respiratory Problems
Red signs include gasping, coughing, wheezing, fast breathing, shortness of breath, and harsh breathing. These may necessitate immediate medical attention, particularly if the problem develops quickly.
- Discharge
The occasional ‘booger’ in the eye is typically not cause for alarm, but profuse, goopy, or discolored discharge from the eyes is. A runny nose is also uncommon in cats and may indicate respiratory problems. Ear discharge is also cause for concern.
- Skin and Coat Issues
It is not unusual for senior cats to appear disheveled. Senior kitties frequently struggle to groom themselves due to stiffness and soreness. Most felines, however, do a decent job of keeping up with this. If your kitty’s fur appears dull, or if you observe redness, peeling, sores, or bald spots, contact your veterinary clinic immediately.
- Vocalization Changes
One of the best things about our feline pals is the fact that they are so chatty and talkative. Keep an eye (or ear) out for any changes in your pet’s typical vocalizations. If Fluffy is generally calm but suddenly begins meowing frantically, she may be attempting to communicate pain. A feline who is typically highly talkative but suddenly becomes withdrawn and quiet may also be unwell.
- Litterbox Woes
Cleaning Fluffy’s bathroom will never be the most enjoyable aspect of cat ownership, but it is important. Take note of what you find. Changes in the color, texture, smell, or volume of your cat’s excrement might all indicate health problems. If you ever see your furry friend straining to go, contact your veterinarian immediately. This could indicate blockages, which are quite dangerous.
- Unexplained Weight Change
Our feline friends are quite little, so even a pound or two increase or loss can be an indication of serious health problems. Watch your pet’s weight!
- Respiratory Issues
Coughing, gasping, wheezing, and panting are definitely red flags!
- Bad Breath
Fluffy’s breath is unlikely to smell minty-fresh, but it should also not be utterly repugnant. This can indicate dental difficulties, as well as interior disorders.
If you observe any of these warning symptoms, or any other signs that your cat isn’t feeling well, please contact us at your local Plano, TX pet hospital right away!
Contact Our Plano, TX Animal Clinic
Do you have any concerns regarding your kitten’s health or care? Contact us, your Plano, TX pet hospital, at any time. We are committed to providing excellent veterinary care and great customer service!
