As caring cat guardians, we recognize that you strive for optimal well-being for your feline companion. Since cats can't verbally communicate when they're unwell, identifying their discomfort can be challenging.

Warning Symptoms

Unlike dogs, cats tend to withdraw when feeling unwell rather than seek comfort. They display a protective instinct that can manifest as aggression or hiding, making it challenging for owners to monitor their cats.

Regular veterinary check-ups every 6-12 months, especially for cats over eight years old, can help prevent health issues. If you see any unusual symptoms in your cat but are unsure if they warrant concern, there are specific signs to watch for that can indicate the need for a vet visit.

Our guide highlights common cat illnesses and symptoms to be aware of. If you're worried about your cat's health, consult your veterinarian promptly.

Sickness And Vomiting

Occasional vomiting of fur balls or grass might be considered normal behavior for cats. However, if you notice a rise in vomiting frequency, regurgitation of food or blood, difficulty swallowing, or persistent gagging/retching, it's crucial to schedule a vet appointment.

Vomiting can signify various cat health issues, such as gastrointestinal problems and kidney or liver disease. When vomiting is accompanied by lethargy, depression, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it suggests an underlying concern. Consulting with your veterinarian is essential to initiate appropriate treatment and aid in your cat's recovery.

Extreme Weight Gain

Rapid weight gain in cats can lead to obesity, which can pose risks such as diabetes, mobility issues, and other ailments. When petting or holding your cat, you should be able to feel its ribs with slight pressure. If not, it may be overweight.

Access our Body Conditioning Tool for guidance on assessing your cat's body condition.

Before initiating weight loss measures for your cat, consult your veterinarian for tailored recommendations. Adjusting your cat's diet requires careful consideration to prevent digestive issues.

If you suspect abdominal enlargement rather than overall weight gain, consult your vet for an examination. This could indicate fluid retention rather than fat accumulation.

Coat And Skin

The condition of your cat's skin is a reliable indicator of its overall health. Ideally, its skin should appear smooth and either pink or black, while its coat should be glossy and sleek.

During the birthing process, there may be instances where a kitten requires assistance while the mother is delivering another. In such cases, carefully remove the sac surrounding the kitten and promptly dry them against the direction of their fur using a clean cloth. This gentle rubbing motion can stimulate the kitten to take its first breath.

Change In Appetite

When your cat's appetite decreases, it might be due to benign factors such as outdoor hunting or extreme heat impacting their desire to eat. However, it could also signal underlying health issues, particularly in older cats.

Toilet Problem

Persistent diarrhea, black-colored feces, or feces containing fresh blood or mucus in your cat could indicate underlying health issues. If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, along with vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss, it's essential to contact your veterinarian promptly.

Conversely, if your cat struggles to defecate or passes very hard or hair-filled stools, scheduling a veterinary check-up is wise. While these issues may seem minor, they could signify more significant health problems.

Frequent visits to the litter tray, straining without urinating, vocalizing while in the litter box, or noticing blood in your cat's urine may suggest a urinary tract infection (UTI). Common infections like cystitis can be easily treated, but more severe cases might lead to feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), posing a serious health risk if left untreated. If you observe any symptoms of a UTI, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly to prevent complications.

Untreated urinary tract diseases can pose significant dangers to your cat's health, underscoring the importance of prompt treatment upon detecting any signs.

Increase In Drinking And/Or Urinating

When transitioning your cat from wet to dry food, it's common for them to increase their water intake as they adjust to the new diet.

However, if your cat begins drinking or urinating excessively without any alterations to its diet, it could indicate an underlying health issue, such as diabetes or kidney-related problems. If you see any significant changes in your cat's drinking habits, such as increased visits to the water bowl or wetter-than-usual litter trays, it's essential to schedule a check-up with your veterinarian to rule out any potential health concerns.