Cats are independent and mysterious creatures, which makes it difficult for cat owners to identify if they are suffering from a minor or major health issue. They need to understand the symptoms and signs of common cat health issues.
This article is about the most common cat health problems. But, you need to contact your vet if your cat is showing any alarming symptoms. This article is not about diagnosing cat health problems.
1) Kidney Diseases
Kidney diseases are getting more common in cats every day. Kidneys regulate water and blood levels and filter out waste. Deterioration or breakdown in the kidneys can result in chronic kidney diseases or acute renal failure.
An early diagnosis can help in reversing acute renal failure. Unfortunately, there is no cure for chronic kidney disease. However, an early diagnosis and proper care (medicines, diet, exercise, and rest) ensure a high-quality life.
Here are some common signs of kidney disease.
- Weight loss,
- A dry coat,
- Diarrhea,
- Vomiting,
- Frequent Urination,
- A lot of water intake,
- Cloudy or bloody urine.
2) Vomiting
Vomiting is also very common in cats. It can be because of eating some poisonous food, urinary tract disease, infection, or diabetes. Some obvious symptoms are abdominal heaving and drooling.
Vomiting leaves your cat dehydrated, which is not good news. You have to call your vet if it does not stop or if your cat acts ill.
3) Fleas
Cat fleas are the most irritating fleas and are difficult to eliminate. They carry harmful diseases to humans and cats. Prevention is better than cure is one of the best ways to fight them.
You can keep these fleas away by regularly cleaning the areas your cat hangs out, using vet-recommended products, and keeping your cat hygienic.
Here are some common signs that your cat might have fleas.
- You might notice tiny black dots (flea dirt) on your cat,
- You will notice your cat constantly scratching and licking itself,
- You will find its skin red or irritated,
- Hair loss is also a common symptom of fleas.
A flea can live for more than 12 months which risks anemia. You do not want to take it casually because it is too painful for your cats. Visit the vet as soon as possible and give your feline friend the necessary medications. Do not forget to buy sprays or tools to prevent fleas in the future.
4) Blood in Cat Stool
It is also a common health issue among cats. You can notice light red streaks in your cat’s poo or encounter black poo, depending on the type of blood in it. Some common reasons for blood in cat stool are
- Injuries,
- Parasites,
- Platelet disorders,
- Food intolerance (sensitive stomach).
There can be more possible reasons for noticing blood, but these were the most common. You need to visit your vet as soon as possible for more diagnoses and medications.
5) Tapeworms
Tapeworms are also a common cat health issue. They live in the cat’s small intestine and can grow up to 2 feet. These worms usually break apart, so it is unlikely to see a fully grown worm. You will find its segments more often.
Vomiting and weight loss can be two common symptoms of tapeworms. They come out of a cat’s anus while your cat is not doing much (sleeping or relaxing). They look like grains of white rice or sesame seeds.
Some common treatments include oral or topical medications and injections. A tapeworm can also enter a cat if your cat eats a flea. Dealing with fleas might be the primary task before dealing with tapeworms.
Wrapping Up
You need to be attentive to the symptoms your feline friend shows. There is no such thing as a major or minor health issue. Any health-related problem can give a lot of damage without you knowing it.
Visiting a vet regularly is one of the primary steps in maintaining the good health of your cat.
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