Kitties are definitely mysterious little furballs. We’ve known Fluffy for a long time, possibly 12,000 years. While we’ve learned a lot about our feline companions, there are still a few things we don’t understand, such as why they make clicking noises when they see birds, why they are preoccupied with boxes, and why they are always tired. We also know that these adorable little balls of fur can be rather secretive when it comes to admitting they are sick. You’ll need to keep a close eye on Fluffy, and watch for indications that she is sick. A local Wichita, KS veterinarian answers some questions about this below.
How Do Cats Act When They Feel Sick?
Each of our kitty friends is distinctive. (That is a bit of an understatement.) Fluffy may do things that seem weird, but that doesn’t mean she’s ill. Keep an eye out for any behavior that is unusual for your cat. For example, a shy feline may naturally 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 However, if your feline companion is usually pleasant and outgoing but suddenly becomes withdrawn, there could be a problem.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:
- A noisy cat that abruptly ceases meowing.
- A peaceful cat that begins yowling.
- A pleasant cat who starts being grouchy or aggressive.
The better you learn to know Fluffy, the easier it will be to detect these changes. Take special care of your cat!
What Are Some Of The Most Common Feline Illnesses?
Kitties are normally quite tough, but they aren’t as invincible as they appear to be. Fluffy is vulnerable to a wide range of illnesses and diseases.
Here are some of the most common:
- Diabetes
- FeLV
- Respiratory Tract Issues
- Cancer
- Kidney Disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Obesity
- Dental Disease
- Eye issues
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis
- Feline Panleukopenia
- Heartworm
- Disorders of the lower urinary tract
- Rabies
- Abscesses
- Parasites
- Lymphoma
- Pancreatitis
- Urinary infection
- Gastrointestinal Problems
Keeping on top of your cat’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 Cats Hide Sickness Signs?
As you may be aware, our feline companions can be a little secretive. They also often try to disguise symptoms of illness. This is a really well-embedded survival instinct. Predators are constantly on the lookout for animals that appear weak or unwell, because they make easy targets. Fluffy probably 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.
Vomiting
It’s usually not a big deal if Fluffy vomits every now and then. Most of our feline friends have 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 problematic.
Appetite Loss
Kitties can be picky, but if Fluffy doesn’t like what you placed in her bowl, she should meow and demand something else. A complete lack of interest in eating is a red indicator.
Enhanced Appetite
On the other hand, a sudden rise in hunger can be problematic. Our feline friends are usually very fond of food, but if Fluffy suddenly appears to be a 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. 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 red flag, but it can be more difficult to detect, especially if your pet’s litterbox is in a private area.
Lethargy
While some cats appear to prefer lethargy, 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, there could be an issue.
Increased Thirst
Excessive thirst can indicate a variety of conditions, which range from diabetes to kidney failure. It is critical that Fluffy has 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 assist with this.
Respiratory Problems
Red signs include gasping, coughing, wheezing, fast breathing, shortness of breath, and harsh breathing. These require 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 another story. 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. Seniors typically struggle to groom themselves because they get tight and sore. Most kittens, 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 vet immediately.
Vocalization and Behavior Changes
One of the nicest aspects of cats is their chatty and talkative nature. Keep an eye (or ear) out for any changes in your pet’s typical vocalizations. If Fluffy is generally calm but suddenly begins meowing, she may be attempting to communicate pain. A feline who is typically highly talkative but suddenly becomes withdrawn and quiet may be unwell.
Poor Breathing
Fluffy’s breath is unlikely to smell minty-fresh, but it shouldn’t leave you gagging. This can indicate dental difficulties, as well as interior disorders.
Litterbox Issues
Cleaning your cat’s litterbox will never be the most enjoyable aspect of cat ownership, but it is important. Take note of what you find in Fluffy’s powder room. Changes in the color, texture, smell, or volume of your pet’s excrement might all indicate health problems. If you find your cat straining to go, contact your veterinarian right away. This could be an indication of blockages, which are quite dangerous.
Weight Change
Our feline friends are little, so even a pound or two increase or loss can indicate serious health problems. Watch your pet’s weight!
Visible Symptoms of Trauma
Sometimes it’s evident that something’s awry. Limping, fever, cuts, lesions, and swelling are just a few examples of symptoms that should be handled right once.
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 Wichita, KS pet hospital right away!
Make An Appointment At Your Wichita, KS Pet Hospital
Do you have any concerns regarding your kitten’s health or care? Contact us, your Wichita, KS pet hospital, at any time. We are committed to providing excellent care.