Cats can be stoic creatures and they can often conceal their discomfort when they are unwell. To help you recognize the signs, our vets in Anaheim have compiled a list of symptoms that may indicate your cat is feeling sick.
Symptoms of a Sick Cat
Cats are known for their ability to conceal any discomfort when they are unwell, just like many other animals. As a result, your feline friend may not exhibit any signs of sickness until they are feeling extremely unwell. Therefore, it is essential to take your cat to a vet in Anaheim at the earliest indication of any of the following symptoms or signs:
- Sudden change in mood
- No inclination to play or appear lethargic
- Constricted or dilated pupils
- Much less or much more vocal than usual
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
- Noticeable weight loss or gain
- Sudden changes in appetite, drinking, or eating habits
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Neglecting grooming or over-grooming
- Hiding
- Improper use of litter box
- Hair loss or skin irritation
- Bad breath
- Discharge from eyes or nose
- Wounds or swelling
- Limping or injuries
Knowing When Your Cat is Sick
As the owner, you have the best knowledge of your cat. Observe your pet for any slight alterations in behavior that others might miss, and keep an eye on any changes in your cat's typical attitude or nonverbal communication. If something appears off, make an appointment for your cat to receive a check-up, even if you don't observe any of the symptoms stated earlier.
Common Causes of Illness in Cats
After learning about the indicators of your cat's illness, let's explore some prevalent diseases that cats can suffer from.
- Is your cat drinking far more water than is typical? This could be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid issues.
- Bad breath can indicate your cat is suffering from tooth pain or periodontal disease. Left untreated, dental disease in cats can lead to more serious problems such as heart, kidney, and liver conditions.
- A sudden increased appetite can be a sign of inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal cancer, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.
- Have you noticed your cat is suddenly experiencing litter box issues? This could be a sign of anything from a urinary tract infection to kidney disease or bladder stones.
- Breathing problems and reduced enthusiasm for play or activities can indicate an upper respiratory infection.
- Arthritis or injuries can lead to a drop-off in your cat's acrobatic activities.
What You Can Do If Your Cat is Sick
Your vet at Anaheim Animal Care & Pet Hospital is here to provide diagnosis and treatment if your cat is exhibiting any unusual behaviors. Early detection and treatment of illnesses can help to prevent conditions from worsening or becoming life-threatening.
It's crucial to seek professional veterinary advice promptly if your cat is sick or injured. They may require urgent medical attention, surgery, or even emergency care. The sooner you start treatment, the sooner your furry friend can start feeling like themselves again.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.