Is your cat showing signs of illness? Or are you the type of cat parent who wants to prepare for the possibility? Either way, it’s good that you’re doing some research, as cats are complex little creatures. We don’t share a language, so it’s important to watch your cat’s actions. They’ll tell you if something is wrong with the pile of puke at the bottom of the stairs or the food dish that wasn’t touched since the day before. Let’s dive into the most common health issues that cats can experience.
1. Vomiting
Vomiting is a very common issue with cats. It can be caused by a range of different things, such as diabetes, infections, hairballs, and simply eating something they shouldn’t have off of the ground. It’s normal for cats to vomit once in a while due to hairballs, but if they’re excessively doing so, then a visit to the vet may be in order. Taking a sample of the puke to the vet can help them diagnose the problem, too.
Symptoms
· Drooling
· Heaving
· Dehydration
· Depression
· Lack of appetite
2. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)
FLUTD is a group of feline diseases that can be caused by multiple things. Obesity, stress, diet and environment changes, and dry food can be the reason for these diseases. If you see any of the following symptoms exhibited by your cat, make sure to take them to the vet, as it will prevent the illness from becoming worse.
Symptoms
· Difficulty urinating
· Bloody urine
· Urinating in places other than their little box
· Crying while urinating
· Excessive licking around the urinary area (because it’s painful)
· Dehydration
· Vomiting
· Depression
· Lack of appetite
3. Fleas
Fleas are very common in cats, especially those who visit the outdoors often. Thankfully, it’s easy to treat. Keep in mind that extended exposure to fleas can cause anemia, which is a condition in which there’s a lack of red blood cells (these carry oxygen to your body’s tissue). There are many treatments, such as oral medication, foams, and powders.
Symptoms
· Flea dirt on the cat’s skin (small black dots)
· Frequent scratching and licking
· Irritated skin
· Hair loss
· Skin infections
4. Tapeworms
Sadly, there are problems that happen inside your cat, which can go unnoticed if you don’t pay close attention to your pet’s behavior. Tapeworms can live in your cat’s small intestine, and can grow up to two feet. This can be caused by eating fleas, so be sure to address flea problems before treating the tapeworms. Treatment includes topical medication and injections.
Symptoms
· Weight loss
· Vomiting
· White worms (looks like white rice) in feces or around anus
5. Diarrhea
Just like with humans, there are many reasons your cat may have diarrhea. It can be due to spoiled food, infections, allergies, liver disease, and even cancer. If your cat does have diarrhea, then offer them fresh water to avoid dehydration. Remove your cat’s food for no more than twelve to twenty four hours. If your cat still has diarrhea after twenty four hours, then a visit to the vet is needed.
Symptoms
· Loose, watery stool
· Vomiting
· Bloody stool
· Fever
· Loss of appetite
6. Eye Issues
Eye issues can be caused by conjunctivitis, glaucoma, trauma, cataracts, viruses, inflammation, and retinal disease. Unless you know exactly what the problem is, all you can do is wipe away the gunk around their eyes and take them to the vet. Always be gentle when probing around those delicate eyes, as they may be in pain. Using a damp cotton ball is usually the best material for cleaning the ick away.
Symptoms
· Watering eyes
· Tear-stained fur
· Cloudiness
· Red or white eyelid linings
· Gunk in the corners
· Squinting
· Pawing at the eye
· Visible third eyelid
After reading over these illnesses and the symptoms that follow suit, you may be wondering if your cat’s puke is a hairball or a cause of something more serious. The best thing you can do is monitor your cat, offer them love, and take them to the vet if symptoms continue. It’s okay to take them in for a checkup early if you suspect something is wrong. “It’s better to be safe than sorry” after all. This is your furry loved one. Why wouldn’t you do everything you can to make sure they live the healthiest and happiest life possible?
