Common health problems in cats and how to avoid them

Common Health Problems in Cats & How to Prevent Them

1. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

  • Symptoms: Straining to urinate, blood in urine, frequent litter box visits, vocalizing during urination.
    Common health problems in cats and how to avoid them

  • Prevention:

    • Provide fresh water daily to encourage hydration.

    • Feed high-quality, moisture-rich food (e.g., wet food or hydration supplements).

    • Keep litter boxes clean and stress-free; use unscented litter.

    • Monitor for obesity, a risk factor for FLUTD.

2. Obesity

  • Symptoms: Excess body fat, lethargy, difficulty grooming.

  • Prevention:

    • Measure meals and avoid free-feeding.

    • Use interactive toys to encourage exercise.

    • Consult a vet for portion guidelines based on age, breed, and activity level.

3. Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Worms)

  • Symptoms: Scratching, visible parasites, diarrhea, weight loss.

  • Prevention:

    • Use vet-recommended flea/tick preventatives year-round.

    • Administer deworming treatments as advised.

    • Keep indoor environments clean; avoid raw meat diets.

4. Dental Disease

  • Symptoms: Bad breath, red gums, difficulty eating, tartar buildup.

  • Prevention:

    • Brush teeth regularly with feline-safe toothpaste.

    • Provide dental treats or toys designed to reduce plaque.

    • Schedule annual dental checkups with your vet.

5. Upper Respiratory Infections

  • Symptoms: Sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, lethargy.

  • Prevention:

    • Vaccinate against common viruses (e.g., feline herpesvirus, calicivirus).

    • Minimize stress and multi-cat household crowding.

    • Isolate sick cats to prevent spread.

6. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

  • Symptoms: Increased thirst, weight loss, vomiting, poor coat quality.

  • Prevention:

    • Ensure access to clean water to support kidney function.

    • Feed a balanced diet low in phosphorus (for senior cats).

    • Regular bloodwork for early detection (especially in cats over 7).

7. Diabetes Mellitus

  • Symptoms: Excessive thirst, weight loss, increased urination.

  • Prevention:

    • Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.

    • Avoid high-carbohydrate diets; opt for protein-rich foods.

    • Monitor blood sugar levels in predisposed breeds (e.g., Burmese).

8. Skin Allergies

  • Symptoms: Itching, hair loss, scabs, ear infections.

  • Prevention:

    • Identify and eliminate allergens (e.g., certain foods, pollen, dust).

    • Use hypoallergenic grooming products.

    • Consult a vet for allergy testing if symptoms persist.

General Prevention Tips

  • Regular Vet Visits: Annual checkups for younger cats; biannual for seniors.

  • Vaccinations: Keep core vaccines (e.g., rabies, FVRCP) up to date.

  • Spay/Neuter: Reduces risks of reproductive cancers and infections.

  • Stress Reduction: Provide hiding spots, vertical spaces, and routine.

  • Toxic Substance Safety: Keep lilies, antifreeze, chocolate, and human medications out of reach.

When to Seek Help: Contact a vet immediately if your cat stops eating, shows labored breathing, or exhibits sudden behavioral changes. Early intervention is key to managing most feline health issues.

How to Tell if Your Cat Has a Fever

A fever (pyrexia) in cats is defined as a body temperature above 102.5°F (39.2°C). Temperatures exceeding 103°F (39.4°C) require urgent veterinary care.

Key Signs of Fever in Cats

  1. Behavioral Changes:

    • Lethargy or hiding.

    • Loss of appetite or refusal to drink.

    • Unusual aggression or irritability.

  2. Physical Symptoms:

    • Warm ears or paws (compared to normal).

    • Shivering or rapid breathing.

    • Dry nose (not always reliable; some healthy cats have dry noses).

    • Dehydration (check by gently pinching the skin; if it doesn’t snap back, seek help).

  3. Additional Clues:

    • Vomiting or diarrhea.

    • Discharge from eyes/nose (suggests infection).

    • Labored movement or stiffness.

How to Check Your Cat’s Temperature

The only accurate method is using a rectal thermometer:

  1. Use a digital pediatric rectal thermometer (never glass).

  2. Lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly.

  3. Gently insert ½–1 inch into the rectum; hold until it beeps.

  4. Disinfect the thermometer afterward.

Note:

  • Stress (e.g., vet visits) can temporarily raise a cat’s temperature.

  • Do not use ear thermometers—they are less reliable for cats.

  • If your cat resists, do not force it; seek veterinary assistance.

Common Causes of Fever

  • Infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal).

  • Inflammation (e.g., pancreatitis).

  • Toxin exposure or immune disorders.

  • Post-vaccination mild fever (usually resolves in 24–48 hours).

What to Do if You Suspect a Fever

  1. Monitor closely: Track symptoms, appetite, and behavior.

  2. Encourage hydration: Offer water or wet food.

  3. Avoid human medications: Never give acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen, or aspirin—these are toxic to cats.

  4. Contact your vet:

    • If the temperature is above 103°F (39.4°C).

    • If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours.

    • If your cat shows labored breathing, seizures, or collapse (go to an emergency clinic immediately).

Prevention Tips

  • Keep vaccinations up to date.

  • Minimize exposure to sick animals.

  • Provide a stress-free environment.

  • Schedule regular wellness exams.

Final Note: Fever is a symptom, not a disease. Early veterinary diagnosis is critical to identify and treat the underlying cause. Always consult your vet before attempting home treatments.

 

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