Cats tend to be pretty healthy pets. Many of them never go to the vet except for vaccines and check-ups. However, cats do suffer from health problems and some are more common than you think. A little vigilance and a lot of love can go a long way. Check out this list of things that might cause your kitty to take an extra trip to the veterinarian.
#1 -Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)
Very common in all animals, any cat can get a URI, which is basically a really bad cold. Look for running eyes and noses, lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever.
#2 – Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Common in kitties, a UTI is a serious problem that needs vet attention immediately. Look for blood in the urine, going outside the litterbox, and trouble going.
#3 – Ingrown Nails
If you are not clipping your cat’s nails regularly, they can grow into the skin and/or pad, causing extreme pain and discomfort. Because they don’t knead as often, old cats do not shed the outer layers of the nail, causing them to have more ingrown nails then younger cats.
#4 – Urinary Tract Blockage
More common in male cats, these blockages are caused by stones due to their diet. Symptoms include: straining to go, yowling in discomfort, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
#5 – Periodontal Disease
One of the most common diseases in cats, Periodontal Disease is the inflammation of “some or all of a tooth’s deep supporting structures.” This is caused by food and bacteria accumulating along the cat’s gum line, which is why tooth brushing (a cotton swab works well) and regular dental cleanings are important.
#6 -Toxicity
Because cats often get into things like houseplants, chemicals, and food, this is something vets see often. A rodent infected with poison can also affect your cat; so if your cat is a hunter, do not use poison to treat a pest problem.
#7 – Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is the most common glandular disorder in cats according to Webmd.com. If your cat has sudden weight loss and a ravenous appetite, take them to the vet.
#8 – Kidney Disease
Very common in older cats, the kidneys stop working as well as before and are unable to filter as they should. Symptoms include dehydration, loss of appetite, lethargy, and problems going to the bathroom.
#9 – Ringworm
Ringworm is common, especially in rescued animals, and is troublesome because of how contagious it is (you can get it from your cat!). If you see a loss of hair (particularly on paws and ears) and lesions in a circular pattern, go to the vet immediately.
#10 – Obstruction
Cats are often seen in the ER for having eaten things like string, hairballs, and ribbons that caused a blockage in the throat, stomach, or intestine. If you see any of the following symptoms—lethargy, vomiting and/or diarrhea, and poor appetite—rush your cat to the vet immediately.
