If your feline friend is under the weather they will show subtle changes in behavior and energy level, but detecting these signs can be challenging for cat owners. Our Lisle vets recommend that you regularly monitor your cat's health and always watch for the following signs of illness.
Your Cat's Health
Cat illnesses range from common and highly contagious cat colds (upper respiratory infections) to diabetes, feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukemia virus, worms, hyperthyroidism, and even cancer.
The symptoms that your feline friend exhibits will depend upon the kind of illness they are suffering from however there are a number of symptoms that are common to many health issues in cats.
Below our vets from Green Trails Animal Clinic share a few signs that may indicate that it's time to book a vet appointment for your kitty, as well as more serious symptoms that can mean that your cat is in need of emergency veterinary care.
Is my cat sick?
Signs of a sick cat are difficult to spot because cats possess a natural instinct to hide whenever they are sick or injured. This is why it's important to monitor your cat's behavior to watch for anything that seems out of the ordinary for your kitty. Although it may just be a passing bout of indigestion or a cold, it's also possible that your cat has a more serious condition that needs medical attention.
Cats hide pain and illness well, so what looks like a minor issue could be the sign of something more serious. Signs your cat is sick include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation - especially if your cat appears to be in pain
- Lethargy - sleeping more than usual
- Increase or decrease in appetite
- Weight changes - Sudden decrease or increase in weight
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Breathing issues, or changes in breathing
- Runny eyes or nose, clear, green or white
- Excessive shedding, bald patches, skin irritation
- Blood in the urine
- Changes in personality - in longer playful or refuses to go outside
What are the signs of a veterinary emergency?
The symptoms listed above indicate that it's time to book a veterinary appointment for your cat, however, the symptoms listed below are much more serious. If your cat shows any of the following symptoms urgent veterinary care is required.
If you are unclear whether your cat's symptoms are indicative of an emergency, contact us right away and we can help you decide.
- Indications of severe pain - typically accompanied by loud crying or aggression
- Seizure
- Trauma
- Breathing difficulties
- Signs of pain while urinating
- Discolored gums - blue, grey, white, or unusually pale
- Bleeding that is moderate to extreme
- Any exposure to poison
- Vomiting blood
- Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
- Unable to walk or signs of dizziness
- Overly high or low temperatures - under 99° or over 104°
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.