Cats are beloved pets that bring joy and comfort to their owners. However, like all living creatures, they can experience health problems that can be concerning and sometimes even life-threatening. As a cat owner, it is important to be aware of the common health issues that your feline friend may encounter so that you can provide them with the care and attention they need.
In this blog, we will discuss some of the most common health problems in cats and what you can do to keep your furry companion healthy and happy.
Dental issues
One of the most common issues faced by our feline friends is problems with their teeth and gums. As it is difficult to brush a cat’s teeth, plaque can often build up in the mouth and can eventually turn into tartar. This is the most common underlying cause of dental disease and can cause the gums to become inflamed over time, leading to gingivitis.
Some of the symptoms of dental issues in cats can include bad breath, poor appetite, and pawing at the face. If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
As with anything, prevention is key. You should have your cat’s teeth checked by a vet every 6-12 months so that any signs of dental disease can be found and fixed early. You can also brush your cat’s teeth at home using cat-specific toothpaste.
Kidney Disease
Cats are unfortunately prone to kidney problems, and kidney disease is the leading cause of death in cats over 5 years of age. One of the reasons why cats develop kidney problems so often is that they are born with fewer nephrons per kidney than other animals. Nephrons are the kidney’s functional units and are required for the kidney to work properly.
In cats, some of the signs of kidney disease include:
- A loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Bad breath
- Lethargy and drowsiness
- Increased drinking
- Increased urination
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial that you get your cat checked by a vet immediately, as the quicker kidney disease is diagnosed, the better your cat’s chances of treatment are. Treatment for this common cat illness normally involves medication, encouraging water intake, and feeding your cat a prescription diet.
Injuries
While this isn’t necessarily a common health problem in cats, it is important to be aware of the different injuries that a cat can face so that you can get them treated as quickly and effectively as possible.
As cats often spend time outside unsupervised, they can sometimes get hurt. For example, they may get into a fight with another local cat that results in scratches and bites. If this happens, monitor your cat for signs of infection, and if you suspect the wound has become infected, take them straight to the vet.
Another injury that can occur is falling from a height or being hit by a car. These events can cause major trauma, so it is important that your cat is examined by a vet quickly. Make sure to handle your cat with care, as they may be in pain and may lash out at you out of fear.
Obesity
Obesity is a rising issue in cats in developed countries, with feline obesity occurring in up to 63% of cats. Obesity is more than just being overweight; it can cause significant health problems for your pet, such as arthritis, cardiovascular issues, and a weak immune system.
A cat is considered obese when their excess fat is more than 20% above their ideal body weight. Some of the symptoms of obesity in cats include:
- A collar that keeps getting tighter
- Unkempt hair coat
- Difficulty jumping
- Loss of a visible waistline
- Less frequent bowel movements
The good news is that obesity can be treated with a diet plan that reduces the calorie intake of your pet. Your vet will be able to provide you with a personalised diet for your cat based on their lifestyle, age and needs.
These are just a few of the most common health problems in cats, so always remember that if you notice a change in your pet’s behaviour, it’s best to have them checked by a vet. Now you know the signs of these 4 illnesses; you can be confident in monitoring your cat’s health and providing the best life for them.