After reading this article, you’ll be able to know some of the most common health problems in cats, their causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
Keep in mind that I’m just a cat owner and not a veterinarian, so before making this list, I discussed it with some veterinarians and other cat owners to get their opinions.
Keep reading to find out more…
Health Problems In Cats
There are a lot of health problems in cats, however, to keep this post short and straight to the point, I’ll be discussing the most common health problems in cats.
I’ll keep the explanations of these health problems short…
In my opinion, here are some of the most common health problems in cats, their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention:
Dental Diseases
Dental diseases are quite common in cats and can cause discomfort and pain if left untreated.
I dig deeper about dental issues in cats and I found out that dental issues are prevalent in cats, with between 50% and 90% of cats over the age of four suffering from some form of dental disease.
The most common dental diseases in cats are gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption.
Causes of dental issues in cats
Based on my discussion with some veterinarian online, I found out that the main cause of dental diseases in cats is the buildup of plaque and tartar on their teeth.
This buildup of plaque can lead to gum infections, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.
Poor oral hygiene, improper diet, and genetics can also contribute to the development of dental diseases in cats.
Identifying dental diseases in cats
I also found out that the symptoms of dental diseases in cats include bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, drooling, and pawing at the mouth.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to take your cat to the veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosing dental diseases in cats
To diagnose dental diseases in cats, the veterinarian will perform a thorough oral examination.
According to some veterinarian I chatted with, this may involve sedating your cat to get a closer look at their teeth and gums.
X-rays may also be taken to assess the extent of the dental disease.
Treatment options for dental diseases in cats
From what I was told, treatment options for dental diseases in cats may include professional dental cleaning, tooth extractions, and antibiotics to treat any infections.
Preventing dental diseases in cats
To prevent dental diseases in cats, it’s crucial to establish a regular dental care routine from a young age.
This includes regular brushing of your cat’s teeth, providing dental-friendly toys and treats, and scheduling regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian.
Related: How to know a sick cat.
Upper Respiratory Infections
I also found out that upper respiratory infections are common in cats and are often caused by viruses or bacteria.
The most common causes of upper respiratory infections in cats are feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus.
These infections can be easily transmitted from cat to cat through sneezing, coughing, or sharing food and water bowls.
Symptoms of upper respiratory infections in cats
Symptoms of upper respiratory infections in cats include sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyes), loss of appetite, and lethargy.
In severe cases, cats may also develop a fever and have difficulty breathing.
Diagnosing upper respiratory infections in cats
According to some veterinarians I chatted with online, to diagnose upper respiratory infections in cats, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and may take swabs or samples for laboratory testing.
This will help determine the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection, which will, in turn, provide a treatment pathway.
Treatment options for upper respiratory infections in cats
Treatment options for upper respiratory infections in cats may include supportive care, such as humidification and nebulization to help with breathing, and medications to alleviate symptoms.
Antibiotics may also be prescribed if a bacterial infection is present, all this should be done by a qualified veterinarian.
Preventing upper respiratory infections in cats
Preventative measures for upper respiratory infections in cats include keeping your cat’s living environment clean and well-ventilated, ensuring they have a healthy diet and regular veterinary check-ups, and minimizing their exposure to other cats, especially if they are showing signs of illness.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a viral infection that affects a cat’s immune system.
It is transmitted primarily through bites from infected cats, usually during territorial fights.
FIV is more common in outdoor cats and in males, as they are more likely to engage in fights.
Symptoms of FIV in cats
Symptoms of FIV in cats can vary, but they often include weight loss, poor coat condition, recurrent infections, dental problems, and anemia.
Some cats may not show any symptoms for years after being infected.
Diagnosing FIV in cats
To diagnose FIV in cats, your veterinarian will perform a blood test to detect the presence of antibodies against the virus.
It’s important to note that a positive test result does not necessarily mean that the cat has active FIV. Additional tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment options for FIV in cats
Currently, there is no cure for FIV, therefore, treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and preventing secondary infections.
This may include providing a balanced and nutritious diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and medications to treat any infections or complications that may arise.
Preventing FIV in cats
Preventative measures for FIV in cats include keeping them indoors to minimize their exposure to infected cats, spaying/neutering to reduce aggressive behavior, and avoiding contact with stray or unknown cats.
Vaccination against FIV is available in some regions, but its effectiveness may vary.
Urinary Tract Problems
Urinary tract problems are a common health issue in cats, and they can range from urinary infections to more serious conditions like bladder stones or urinary blockages.
These problems can cause discomfort, pain, and even life-threatening situations if not addressed promptly.
The causes of urinary tract problems in cats can vary. Common causes include bacterial infections, urinary stones or crystals, bladder inflammation, and anatomical abnormalities.
Stress, obesity, and a diet lacking in moisture can also contribute to the development of urinary tract problems in cats.
Symptoms of urinary tract problems in cats
Symptoms of urinary tract problems in cats may include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, crying or vocalizing while urinating, urinating outside of the litter box, and signs of discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Diagnosing urinary tract problems in cats
To diagnose urinary tract problems in cats, your veterinarian may perform a physical examination, collect a urine sample for analysis, and recommend imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound to evaluate the bladder and urinary tract.
In some cases, a catheter may be used to help relieve a urinary blockage.
Treatment options for urinary tract problems in cats
Treatment options for urinary tract problems depend on the specific condition.
Infections may be treated with antibiotics, and bladder inflammation can be managed with anti-inflammatory medications.
In cases of urinary stones or blockages, a veterinarian may need to manually remove or dissolve the stones or perform surgery if necessary.
Preventing urinary tract problems in cats
Preventative measures for urinary tract problems in cats include providing a balanced diet that promotes urinary health, ensuring access to fresh water at all times, maintaining a clean litter box, and reducing stress in the cat’s environment.
Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs of urinary tract problems and prevent complications.
Cancer
Cancer is not uncommon in cats, and it can affect various organs and tissues within their bodies.
The causes of cancer in cats are still not fully understood, but factors such as genetics, exposure to certain environmental toxins, and viruses like feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) may increase the risk.
Symptoms of cancer in cats
Symptoms of cancer in cats can vary depending on the type and location of the tumor.
Common signs include unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, lumps or bumps on the body, abnormal bleeding, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and changes in behavior or personality.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian.
Diagnosing cancer in cats
Diagnosing cancer in cats usually involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests (such as X-rays or ultrasounds), and sometimes, biopsies or aspirates of suspicious masses.
The goal is to determine the type and extent of the cancer.
Treatment options for cancer in cats
According to some veterinarians I chatted with online, treatment options for cancer in cats depend on the type, stage, and location of the tumor.
They may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments.
The veterinarian will develop a tailored treatment plan based on the specific needs of the cat.
Preventing cancer in cats
Preventative measures for cancer in cats include keeping them indoors to reduce their exposure to potential carcinogens, such as secondhand smoke or chemicals in the environment.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of any abnormalities or signs of cancer.
Diabetes
According to some veterinarians I talked with, diabetes is also common in cats, and this is a metabolic disorder that can affect cats, just like it affects humans.
It occurs when the cat’s body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels properly.
The exact causes of diabetes in cats are still unknown, but factors such as obesity, genetics, and a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to its development.
Symptoms of diabetes in cats
I was told that the symptoms of diabetes in cats may differ from one cat to another, including increased thirst and urination, weight loss despite increased appetite, lethargy, weakness, and changes in behavior.
Some cats may also develop urinary tract infections or experience difficulty walking. If you observe any of these signs, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian.
Diagnosing diabetes in cats
Diagnosing diabetes in cats involves a series of tests, including blood glucose measurements, urine analysis, and sometimes, a fructosamine test to assess long-term blood sugar control.
These tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition.
Treatment options for diabetes in cats
According to these veterinarians talked to, treatment options for diabetes in cats include dietary management, regular exercise, and insulin therapy.
The veterinarian will prescribe a specific diet and insulin regimen based on the cat’s needs.
It’s also important to closely monitor blood sugar levels and make adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary.
Preventing diabetes in cats
Preventative measures for cat diabetes include maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Avoiding high-carbohydrate diets and offering a diet rich in protein can be beneficial.
Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs of diabetes or other underlying health issues.
Parasites
Parasites are a common health problem in cats and can cause a range of issues, from mild discomfort to severe illness.
Various types of parasites can affect cats, including fleas, ticks, ear mites, intestinal worms, and heartworms.
The causes of parasites in cats can vary depending on the specific parasite.
Fleas and ticks, for example, are often contracted when a cat comes into contact with infested environments or other animals.
Intestinal worms can be acquired through ingestion of contaminated food, water, or prey. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites.
Symptoms of parasites in cats
Symptoms of parasite infestations in cats can include itching, hair loss, skin irritations, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and anemia.
Some parasites, like heartworms, may not cause noticeable symptoms until the infection has progressed.
Diagnosing parasites in cats
To diagnose parasites in cats, a veterinarian may perform a physical examination, conduct fecal tests to check for intestinal worms and perform blood tests to detect heartworms or other blood-borne parasites.
In some cases, skin scrapings or ear swabs may be taken to identify external parasites.
Treatment options for parasites in cats
Treatment options for parasites in cats vary depending on the specific parasite and the severity of the infestation.
Fleas and ticks can be treated with topical or oral medications, while ear mites may require ear drops.
Intestinal worms can be treated with deworming medications, and heartworms may require more extensive treatment under veterinary supervision.
Preventing parasites in cats
Preventative measures for parasites in cats include regular use of flea and tick preventatives, keeping the cat’s living environment clean, practicing good hygiene, and regularly deworming the cat as recommended by the veterinarian.
It’s also essential to keep cats indoors or provide supervised outdoor access to minimize their exposure to parasites.
Eye problems
Eye problems are not uncommon in cats and can range from minor irritations to more serious conditions that can lead to vision loss.
Common eye problems in cats include conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, and cataracts.
The causes of eye problems in cats can vary and they can be the result of infections, injuries, allergies, foreign objects in the eye, underlying health conditions, or genetic predispositions.
Symptoms of eye problems in cats
Symptoms of eye problems in cats may include redness, swelling, discharge, squinting, excessive tearing, cloudiness or opacity in the eyes, changes in the appearance of the pupils, and changes in behavior, such as rubbing or pawing at the eyes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary attention.
Diagnosing eye problems in cats
Diagnosing eye problems in cats may involve a thorough eye examination, including assessing the external structures of the eye and using specialized equipment to examine the internal structures.
Additional tests, such as cultures or staining, may be performed to determine the cause of the problem.
Treatment options for eye problems in cats
Treatment options for eye problems in cats depend on the specific condition and its severity.
They can range from topical medications, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops, to more invasive treatments like surgery.
The veterinarian will develop a treatment plan based on the underlying cause and the individual needs of the cat.
Preventing eye problems in cats
Preventative measures for eye problems in cats include regular veterinary check-ups to detect any early signs of eye disease or abnormality.
Keeping the cat’s living environment clean and free from potential eye irritants, such as dust or chemicals, can also help prevent eye problems.
It’s important to address any potential eye injuries or infections promptly to minimize the risk of complications.
Related: How to keep your cat healthy.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in cats, characterized by an overactive thyroid gland.
It occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess amount of thyroid hormone.
The exact cause of hyperthyroidism in cats is still not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to changes in the thyroid gland as cats age.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in cats
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in cats can include weight loss despite increased appetite, increased thirst and urination, hyperactivity, restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, poor coat condition, and changes in behavior.
Some cats may also develop an enlarged thyroid gland in the neck area.
Diagnosing hyperthyroidism in cats
To diagnose hyperthyroidism in cats, a veterinarian may perform a physical examination, blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels, and additional tests, such as an ultrasound or scintigraphy, to evaluate the size and function of the thyroid gland.
Treatment options for hyperthyroidism in cats
Treatment options for hyperthyroidism in cats include medication to control the overproduction of thyroid hormone, radioactive iodine therapy to destroy the abnormal thyroid tissue, or surgery to remove the affected thyroid gland.
The appropriate treatment option will depend on factors such as the cat’s overall health, age, and the severity of the condition.
Preventing hyperthyroidism in cats
Preventative measures for hyperthyroidism in cats are not well established since the exact cause is still unknown.
Regular veterinary check-ups are important to detect any changes in thyroid hormone levels early on.
Feeding a balanced diet and minimizing exposure to potential environmental triggers may also be beneficial.
Kidney disease
Kidney disease is a common health issue in cats, especially as they age. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood and maintaining the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.
When the kidneys become damaged or fail to function properly, kidney disease can occur.
The causes of kidney disease in cats can vary and may include factors such as genetics, infections, urinary blockages, high blood pressure, certain medications, and exposure to toxins.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is more common in cats and tends to develop gradually over time.
Symptoms of kidney disease in cats
Symptoms of kidney disease in cats may include increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration, and changes in behavior.
As kidney disease progresses, cats may show signs of weakness, and anemia, and may have a poor coat condition.
Diagnosing kidney disease in cats
To diagnose kidney disease in cats, a veterinarian may perform a physical examination, blood tests to assess kidney function, urine tests to check for abnormalities, and imaging tests such as ultrasound to evaluate the kidneys’ structure and size.
Treatment options for kidney disease in cats
Treatment options for kidney disease in cats focus on managing the symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and supporting kidney function.
This may include dietary changes, medications to control blood pressure and manage symptoms like nausea, fluid therapy to maintain hydration, and supplements to support kidney health.
Preventing kidney disease in cats
Preventative measures for kidney disease include providing a balanced diet that is appropriate for the cat’s age and health status, ensuring access to fresh water at all times, and regular veterinary check-ups to monitor kidney function.
Minimizing exposure to potential toxins and maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce the risk of kidney disease.
Read more about why your cat is so skinny.
Hairballs
Hairballs are a common issue in cats, especially those with long hair or cats that groom themselves excessively.
When cats groom, they swallow hair, and some of it may accumulate in their digestive tract, forming hairballs.
The primary cause of hairballs in cats is the ingestion of hair during grooming.
Cats have tiny barbs on their tongues that help remove loose hair, but some of this hair may be swallowed and form into hairballs.
Cats with excessive grooming behavior or those with underlying skin conditions may be more prone to developing hairballs.
Symptoms of hairballs in cats
Symptoms of hairballs in cats may include frequent coughing or gagging, vomiting, lack of appetite, constipation, and changes in litter box habits.
In most cases, hairballs can be expelled through vomiting or passing them in the stool.
However, in rare cases, a hairball may cause an obstruction in the digestive tract, which requires immediate veterinary attention.
Diagnosing hairballs in cats
Diagnosing hairballs in cats is usually based on observing the typical symptoms and ruling out other potential causes of gastrointestinal issues.
If a cat is experiencing recurrent or severe hairball problems, a veterinarian may recommend additional tests, such as X-rays or ultrasound, to rule out other underlying conditions.
Treatment options for hairballs in cats
Treatment options for hairballs in cats focus on managing the symptoms and preventing the formation of hairballs.
This may include dietary changes that promote hairball elimination, specialized hairball remedies or lubricants to help facilitate the passage of hairballs, and regular grooming to minimize the amount of loose hair that cats ingest.
Preventing hairballs in cats
Preventative measures for hairballs include regular grooming sessions to remove loose hair from the cat’s coat, especially for long-haired breeds.
Brushing your cat’s coat can help reduce the amount of hair they swallow during grooming.
Additionally, providing a balanced diet with adequate fiber content can help promote regular bowel movements and reduce hairball formation.
Related: When to take your cat to the vet.
Conclusion
In summary, staying aware of common health problems in cats is crucial for their well-being.
From dental care to preventing obesity, a proactive approach and regular veterinary check-ups ensure that your feline companion stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in keeping your cat purring with joy.
