Cats Illness Symptoms
From LoveToKnow Cats
How many times have you wondered what a combination of a cat's illness symptoms are indicating about your pet's health? Find clues right here.
About a Cat's Illness Symptoms
A cat's illness symptoms can be so varied and overlap so much that it's extremely difficult to figure out what is going on. You know there's something wrong with your pet, but what should you do about it? If only there was some kind of reference guideline that offered some clues.
The following list offers some of the most common illnesses/disorders that cats face. They're compiled in a handy reference table you can use to make a first-hand assessment of your cat's condition. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better prepared to relate your cat's symptoms to your vet.
Be advised that this is not a complete listing of every possible cat illness or symptom.
| Illness | General Symptoms | |
| Ear Infections |
| |
| Ear Mites |
| |
| Fatty Liver Disease |
| |
| Feline Diabetes |
| |
| Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) |
| |
| Feline Leukemia |
| |
| Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) |
| |
| Gum Disease |
| |
| Hairballs |
| |
| Hyperthyroidism |
| |
| Feline Kidney Disease |
| |
| Kidney Stones |
| |
| Lymphoma/Cancer |
| |
| Ringworm |
| |
| Skin/Food Allergies |
| |
| Urinary Tract Infection |
| |
| Respiratory Tract Infection/Flu |
|
When You Should Consult a Vet
Although every feline illness isn't life threatening, there are definitely times when a vet's expertise is required. How can you tell the difference?
- Your cat is unresponsive.
- The illness lasts more than 24-36 hours.
- Symptoms dramatically increase or multiply.
- Your cat is in obvious pain.
- Your cat is struggling to breathe.
- Your cat is bleeding profusely.
- Your cat is unable to have bowel movements or urinate.
- Your cat refuses to eat for more than 48 hours.
- Your cat stops drinking.
Generally speaking, use your own common sense and intimate knowledge of your cat's normal behavior to guide you. If your intuition is telling you it's time to head to the clinic, do so without hesitation.
Final Caution
Keep in mind that this table is only a reference, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary care, especially in emergency situations. Only a certified veterinarian is qualified to render a diagnosis for a sick cat, so never hesitate to take your pet to the vet when treatment is needed. You can do more damage by either waiting or trying to treat an illness by yourself.
Learn More
Comments
Hi Marcy,
You are right to be worried. A major change in behavior can signal an underlying illness. You don't mention the age of your cat, but the first thing that came to mind was possible renal failure. I think you should take her to the vet as soon as possible and have some basic blood work run. This will tell you quite a bit about what might be the underlying health issues with your cat and your vet can tell you how to proceed.
-- Contributed by: LoriSoardIm worried about my cat. She has been urinating in odd places, eating alot, and been crying and requiring more than usual attention. She is just acting weird. Please give me some guidance.
-- Contributed by: MarcyHi Hannah,
A change in food can cause digestive issues. I would give it 24 hours and see if the issue clears up on its own. If it does not, then take it to the vet. Especially with kittens, you don't want to let something like this go on too long as the cat can get dehydrated.
-- Contributed by: LoriSoard
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