Diagnose Sick Cat

If you've ever tried to diagnose a sick cat before, you know how difficult it can be. What is normal in one animal may not be normal in another. Even cats from the same litter may react differently when they are ill. While the correct diagnosing of a severely ill animal should be up to a veterinarian, owners should be aware of the signs that their cat needs medical attention.

Runny eyes signal something is wrong.

How to Diagnose a Sick Cat

Sometimes cats can simply be tired, not unlike their human companions. Cats that simply want to lie in the sun all day long usually aren't ill; they're just enjoying being sfeline. However, a cat that has the following symptoms may have a more serious underlying problem:

• Lethargy - The cat is doing more than just being lazy in the sun. It may be lying in a cool area on the floor or sitting hunched up. The cat may also lose his appetite and refuse to come and eat when called.
• Watery or red eyes - A cat that has red or watery eyes or even a combination of the two may signal an infection or an allergy.
• Sneezing or wheezing - Cats don't normally breathe through their mouths, so you'll notice right away when they are having trouble breathing. They may make small wheezing noises or sneeze a lot. Animals in this condition may have an allergy, cold or upper respiratory infection.
• Weight loss - It may seem normal for an animal to lose weight at the end of winter, especially if your animal likes to go outdoors. However, if your cat seems to progressively lose weight, it is time to seek medical attention, especially if this is coupled with lethargy, constipation, diarrhea or the refusal of food.
• Vomiting, gagging or coughing - Some cats vomit after they have eaten grass. This is normal, and it's usually accompanied by a hairball. A cat that is vomiting anything else may be in serious trouble. Look for frothy vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. These symptoms may signal an abdominal obstruction or internal injury.
• Constipation or diarrhea - If either of these conditions lasts for more than 24 hours, medical attention may be needed. Since cats are relatively small, dehydration can set in quickly. Take cat food away until the symptoms subside, but offer plenty of water. Cats in this condition may yowl when using the cat box.
• Red gums and bad breath - All cats have tartar build up, although some have it in larger quantities than others, and this can cause bad breath. In addition, this can mean a cat has a bad tooth that needs to be extracted. On rare occasions, the cat may have red gums and ulcerations in the back of the mouth coupled with bad breath. This may be a sign of an autoimmune disease.
• Gasping for breath - Any cat in this condition needs immediate medical assistance. While there are a number of causes, this may indicate a blockage in the airway. Check the cat's mouth to see if there is any obstruction, such as a chicken bone, that can be easily removed. If not, call the vet right away.

Emergency Care Items

If you have cats, it is always a good idea to have some basic emergency care items on hand. Some items to include in your emergency kit include:

• You should have a clean cage that can hold a cat bed and litter box as well as bowls for food. There should be enough room for the animal to move about easily.
• Also keep a clean pet carrier so the animal can be taken to the veterinarian.
• Have clean towels handy in a variety of sizes. These are used for cleaning up accidents as well as for padding for an injured animal.
• Disposable and absorbent puppy pads can come in handy to use in the bottom of a pet carrier if the cat has an accident en route to the vet.
• Always have a cat collar and leash ready for unexpected trips to the vet. Keep them in the pet carrier so they won't get lost.

--- Most animal owners know inherently when their pet isn't feeling well. Observe the animal, and notice if there are any changes in its behavior, eating or litter box habits. Being aware of any significant changes can help you diagnose a sick cat early so that he receives proper medical treatment when necessary.

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