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It can be difficult to tell if your cat is sick, as they are often good at hiding their symptoms. However, there are some signs to look out for that could indicate a health problem. These include changes in appetite or water intake, lethargy or decreased activity, changes in litter box habits, vomiting or diarrhea, coughing or sneezing, and changes in behavior or personality. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to take your cat to the vet for a check-up. Regular vet visits can also help prevent health problems before they become serious.
Pets
Examining Your Cat’s Ears
Regularly checking your cat’s ears is essential for maintaining their health. Use grooming time as an opportunity for inspection. Pay attention to any changes in color inside the ears. Yellow or bluish discoloration of the skin inside the ears, similar to the gums and mouth, may indicate a severe health issue. In such cases, it is recommended to alert your veterinarian immediately.
Cats usually keep their ears clean, and apart from normal wax, there shouldn’t be much inside. If you notice any redness, inflammation, raw skin, or crustiness, it is an indication that something is not right. Debris inside the ear that resembles dirt or coffee grounds signifies the presence of ear mites, which are tiny insects that live and breed in the ear canal. While itchiness is a typical symptom of ear mites, not all cats with ear mites will scratch or rub their ears, and not all cats that scratch or rub their ears have ear mites.
Cats that go outside should have their ears checked periodically for other reasons. Frostbite is a real danger in cold weather, and the ears are particularly susceptible. Cats’ ears are mostly made up of skin and cartilage, with little blood flow, making them vulnerable to freezing even if they’re outside for only an hour. Additionally, outdoor cats are more likely to get into fights with other cats, and the ears are easy targets for scratches and bites. A cat’s sharp teeth can cause a puncture wound that traps dirt and germs inside, leading to infection. The cat may seem fine when it returns home, but a few days later, a tender, swollen area of trapped pus may form, causing a fever. At this point, you should take your cat to the vet.
The old saying goes, “The eyes are the windows of the soul.” In the next section, you will learn why, for cat owners, the eyes are also a window into their cat’s well-being.
Cough and Cold
An occasional cough or sneeze is normal and is usually a reaction to the countless irritants in the air. So, if your cat sneezes or coughs once in a while, there is probably nothing to worry about.
Coughing up hairballs is natural for cats. Regular grooming can reduce the frequency and severity of these clumps of swallowed fur. Still, periodic coughing or “throat-clearing” sounds are also typical. Repeated or frequent bouts of sneezing or coughing, however, are usually a sign of an underlying health issue. Sneezing accompanied by a “runny nose” is a symptom of illness, and its severity can range from mild to severe. Swelling or discharge from your cat’s eyes is also an indication of an underlying health problem.
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FAQ
1. What are the signs that my cat is sick?
There are several signs that your cat may be sick, including loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. You may also notice changes in your cat’s behavior, such as hiding, aggression, or excessive grooming.
2. Can cats get colds or flu?
Yes, cats can get colds and flu, which are usually caused by viruses. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and fever. If your cat has these symptoms, it’s important to take them to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
3. What should I do if my cat has diarrhea?
If your cat has diarrhea, it’s important to keep them hydrated and take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Your vet may recommend a special diet or prescribe medication to help your cat recover.
4. How can I tell if my cat is dehydrated?
You can tell if your cat is dehydrated by checking their skin elasticity. Gently pull up on the skin at the back of their neck or between their shoulder blades. If the skin snaps back into place quickly, your cat is likely hydrated. If the skin stays tented, your cat may be dehydrated and should be taken to the vet for evaluation.
5. What causes vomiting in cats?
Vomiting in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, including eating too quickly, eating something they shouldn’t have, hairballs, or an underlying health condition. If your cat is vomiting frequently or has other symptoms, such as lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s important to take them to the vet for evaluation.
6. Can cats get diabetes?
Yes, cats can get diabetes, which is a condition where the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels. Symptoms may include increased thirst, urination, and appetite, as well as weight loss and lethargy. If you suspect that your cat has diabetes, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
7. How often should I take my cat to the vet?
Cats should see the vet at least once a year for a routine checkup and vaccinations. However, if your cat has a health condition or is elderly, they may need to see the vet more often for monitoring and treatment.
8. What should I do if my cat is not eating?
If your cat is not eating, it’s important to take them to the vet for evaluation. Loss of appetite can be a sign of an underlying health condition or pain, and should be taken seriously.
9. Can cats get allergies?
Yes, cats can get allergies, which may be caused by environmental factors or certain foods. Symptoms may include itching, sneezing, and skin irritation. If you suspect that your cat has allergies, it’s important to take them to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
10. What should I do if my cat is having trouble breathing?
If your cat is having trouble breathing, it’s important to take them to the vet immediately. This could be a sign of a serious health condition, such as asthma or heart disease, and requires prompt treatment.
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