Cats are masters at hiding illness and pain, a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. This means that by the time you notice something is wrong, your cat may have been sick for a while. Understanding common feline health problems and their symptoms can help you catch issues early and get your cat the care they need.
This comprehensive guide covers the most common health issues in cats, their symptoms, and when you should seek veterinary care. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
Table of Contents
General Signs of Illness in Cats
Before we dive into specific conditions, it's important to recognize the general signs that your cat might be unwell:
- Changes in appetite or water consumption: Eating or drinking significantly more or less than usual
- Lethargy or decreased activity: Sleeping more, less interest in play or interaction
- Changes in litter box habits: More frequent urination, straining, or avoiding the litter box
- Weight changes: Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Changes in grooming: Overgrooming, lack of grooming, or matted fur
- Behavioral changes: Increased vocalization, hiding, or aggression
- Respiratory changes: Coughing, sneezing, or labored breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhea: Especially if persistent or containing blood
Pro Tip
Keep a "health journal" for your cat to track normal behaviors, which will make it easier to spot changes. Note eating habits, litter box use, activity levels, and any unusual behaviors.
Common Cat Health Problems
Here are some of the most common health issues seen in cats, along with their symptoms and recommended actions:
| Condition | Common Symptoms | When to See a Vet | Urgency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urinary Tract Issues (FLUTD) | Straining to urinate, frequent attempts, blood in urine, crying in litter box, urinating outside box | Immediately - urinary blockages can be fatal within hours | Emergency |
| Dental Disease | Bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at mouth, red or bleeding gums | Schedule appointment within 1-2 weeks for evaluation | Soon |
| Kidney Disease | Increased thirst/urination, weight loss, poor appetite, vomiting, bad breath | Schedule appointment within a few days | Soon |
| Hyperthyroidism | Weight loss despite increased appetite, hyperactivity, vomiting, increased thirst | Schedule appointment within 1-2 weeks | Soon |
| Diabetes | Increased thirst/urination, weight loss despite good appetite, lethargy, sweet-smelling breath | Schedule appointment within a few days | Soon |
| Upper Respiratory Infections | Sneezing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, coughing, fever, loss of appetite | Within 24-48 hours if symptoms are severe or cat stops eating | Soon |
| Arthritis | Difficulty jumping, stiffness, limping, reluctance to move, irritability when touched | Schedule appointment within 1-2 weeks | Routine |
| Fleas and Parasites | Excessive scratching, hair loss, visible fleas or "flea dirt," skin irritation | Schedule appointment within 1-2 weeks | Routine |
| Hairballs | Occasional vomiting of tubular hair masses, hacking cough, decreased appetite | If frequent (more than once a week) or accompanied by other symptoms | Routine |
Detailed Look at Common Conditions
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
FLUTD is a common and potentially life-threatening condition that affects a cat's bladder and urethra. Male cats are at higher risk for life-threatening blockages due to their narrower urethras.
Key symptoms to watch for:
- Straining to urinate with little or no urine produced
- Crying or vocalizing while in the litter box
- Frequent trips to the litter box
- Blood in the urine
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Excessive licking of the genital area
- Lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite (signs of toxin buildup from blockage)
Emergency Alert
A cat that is straining to urinate but producing little or no urine may have a urinary blockage, which is a life-threatening emergency. This condition can cause kidney failure and death within 24-48 hours. Seek immediate veterinary care.
Dental Disease in Cats
By age three, most cats have some evidence of dental disease. Dental problems can cause pain, difficulty eating, and can lead to more serious health issues if bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream.
Common dental issues include:
- Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums
- Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease that can lead to tooth loss
- Tooth resorption: Painful erosion of teeth, common in older cats
- Stomatitis: Severe inflammation of the entire mouth
Prevention and care:
- Regular veterinary dental checkups
- Daily tooth brushing with cat-specific toothpaste
- Dental treats and toys designed to reduce plaque
- Professional cleanings as recommended by your vet
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Kidney disease is common in older cats and involves the gradual loss of kidney function over time. Early detection is key to managing this condition and maintaining quality of life.
Early signs of kidney disease:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Poor coat condition
- Bad breath (uremic odor)
Management strategies:
- Special kidney-support diets
- Encouraging water intake (water fountains, wet food)
- Regular veterinary monitoring
- Medications to control symptoms
- Subcutaneous fluids if recommended by your vet
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
Emergency Situations - Seek Immediate Care
These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention, regardless of the time of day:
- Difficulty breathing: Open-mouth breathing, rapid breathing, or pale/blue gums
- Suspected urinary blockage: Straining to urinate with little production
- Trauma: Hit by car, falls from height, or animal attacks
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Profuse bleeding that doesn't stop with direct pressure
- Ingestion of toxins (antifreeze, lilies, human medications, etc.)
- Heatstroke: Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy in hot conditions
- Sudden paralysis of hind limbs
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea (especially with blood)
- Straining to defecate without production (possible obstruction)
Preventive Care for Cats
Regular preventive care can help catch health issues early and prevent many common problems:
Veterinary Visits
- Kittens: Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old for vaccinations and checkups
- Adult cats (1-7 years): Annual wellness exams
- Senior cats (7+ years): Semi-annual wellness exams
Vaccinations
- Core vaccines: FVRCP (feline distemper) and rabies
- Non-core vaccines: FeLV (feline leukemia) for outdoor cats or at-risk indoor cats
Parasite Prevention
- Monthly flea and tick prevention
- Regular deworming as recommended by your veterinarian
- Heartworm prevention in endemic areas
At-Home Care
- Regular grooming and coat maintenance
- Dental care (brushing, dental treats)
- Nail trims every 2-3 weeks
- Environmental enrichment and regular play
- Monitoring food and water intake
- Regular litter box cleaning and monitoring
Creating a Cat First Aid Kit
Every cat owner should have a basic first aid kit for minor issues and emergencies:
- Basic supplies: Gauze pads, non-stick bandages, adhesive tape, cotton balls
- Tools: Blunt-tipped scissors, tweezers, digital thermometer, disposable gloves
- Cleaning: Antiseptic wipes, saline solution for eye flushing
- Emergency contacts: Your veterinarian's number, nearest emergency clinic, animal poison control
- Comfort items: Small towel, favorite treats
- Transport: Secure carrier for safe transport to the vet
Final Thought
Your cat's health depends on your observation and proactive care. Remember that cats are experts at hiding illness, so subtle changes in behavior or habits can be significant. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian. It's better to have a false alarm than to miss a serious health issue. Regular preventive care and a strong relationship with your veterinarian are the best ways to ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy for years to come.
