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Health & Fitness

10 Signs of Illness in the Cat

This was originally published here in the Patch August 2,2012.  Most people have noted these signs in their cats at one time or another.

Cats are grand masters at hiding illness.  Small changes in your cat can mean that they have a health problem.  To make sure your feline friend lives a good quality life, watch for the following 10 signs and have your veterinarian check over the cat if you see any of these signs.  For best health, have a complete physical exam at least once a year.

  1. Inappropriate litter box use - When the cat urinates or defecates outside the litter box, it is tempting to think they are upset or mad at you.  This is usually not the case.  Instead, see your veterinarian; it can mean that there is a medical problem that can be controlled.  This is actually the most common reason for cats to be given up to a shelter.  Most have never seen a veterinarian for this problem.  
  2. Changes in interaction - Cats are social animals; they enjoy regular interactions with their people or other family pets.  When they stop playing, seeking attention, or become aggressive - this is an indication that something is wrong.  
  3. Changes in activity - A decrease or increase in physical activity can be a sign of a medical condition.  Cats don’t usually slow down just because they are getting older.
  4. Changes in sleeping habits - The key to telling if they are sleeping more than normal is to know the usual napping patterns. If your cat is sleeping more than usual or has discomfort lying down and getting up, this may be a sign of underlying disease.  
  5. Changes in food and water consumption - Despite the popular belief, cats are not usually “finicky” eaters.  If your cat is eating more food, or less, or is eating only on one side; then there is a good chance that something is wrong.  
  6. Unexplained weight loss or gain - Some conditions can cause weight loss while the cat is eating with appetite.  On the other hand, obesity is a serious health concern in cats and can lead to increased risks of other conditions.
  7. Changes in grooming - Most cats are very tidy about their coats.  When the cat doesn’t groom as much it may indicate fear, anxiety, obesity or other illnesses. Grooming more may be a sign of skin problems.
  8. Signs of stress - Stressed cats tend to spend less time grooming and playing and more time awake and scanning their environment.  They may even withdraw and hide.  Because stress can result from or in an illness, see your veterinarian.
  9. Changes in vocalization - An increase in vocalization or howling is more common in older cats and is often seen with conditions such as hyperthyroidism or high blood pressure.  Many cats may vocalize more if they are in pain or anxious. 
  10. Bad breath - One of the early indicator of a dental problem is bad breath.  Regular home teeth brushing and veterinary dental care prevent bad breath, pain, tooth loss and spread of infection to other organs.  

Several of these signs are similar, but can mean different things in an individual cat.  All do mean that the cat needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian.  That visit can make their life, and yours, better.

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Pam Cuevas DVM

La Grange Park Cat Clinic

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3075 S. Wolf Road

(708)562-2287

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