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Cats are prone to various diseases, and it’s important to know the symptoms and treatments to keep your feline friend healthy. Here are some common cat diseases and their treatments:
1. Upper respiratory infections (URI): Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, and runny nose. Treatment includes antibiotics and supportive care.
2. Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD): Symptoms include painful urination, blood in urine, and frequent urination. Treatment includes diet changes, medication, and surgery in severe cases.
3. Feline leukemia virus (FeLV): Symptoms include anemia, weight loss, and recurrent infections. There’s no specific treatment, but supportive care can help manage symptoms.
4. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): Symptoms are similar to FeLV, but there’s no specific treatment. Supportive care is important to manage symptoms.
5. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP): Symptoms include fever, lethargy, and weight loss. There’s no cure, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations can prevent many of these diseases. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your cat, contact your vet immediately.
Pets
Remedies for Cats Suffering from Kidney Disease
В©2006 Publications International, Ltd. At the beginning stage of kidney disease, there might be no external signs visible in a cat.
The primary function of kidneys is to filter out toxins from the body. Injury, age, or disease can damage the kidney tissues and hamper their functionality. Initially, minor kidney damage or early stages of kidney failure may not be apparent as the body can adjust to it.
When the damage or failure worsens, the cat starts producing more urine and drinks more water to compensate. In the later stages, the kidneys cannot keep up with the pace, and toxins accumulate in the body, leading to vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, and often indicative “ammonia breath.”
Unfortunately, once kidney failure reaches this stage, it is usually irreversible. The best way to detect kidney problems is through a blood test. Cats that are mature or exhibit early signs of kidney disease should undergo screening for kidney function.
What to Do
Kidney failure is deceptive, and symptoms may be masked or invisible until the damage is severe. By the time the typical cat is diagnosed with kidney failure, she has already lost around 70% of her kidney function.
Veterinarians refer to the “end-stage” kidney disease when things start getting that bad. This diagnosis implies that the end is imminent. Treating end-stage kidney disease can prolong the cat’s life and make her feel better, but the ultimate outcome is unavoidable.
However, this does not imply that every cat exhibiting symptoms of kidney trouble is hopeless. Sometimes, an infection can set in, causing the kidneys to shut down. Quick treatment can stop the infection and get the cat back on her feet with minimal long-term damage.
Observe the signs. Have you noticed your cat drinking more water? Has she suddenly stopped eating? Is she lethargic or depressed? Does she appear to be urinating excessively or barely at all? Is she sore over the lower part of her back or sitting in a hunched-up “pain crouch”? All of these, along with vomiting and diarrhea, are indicative of a possible kidney problem or infection.
Consult a vet. Home care for cats with kidney problems is only follow-up care. You need a vet to diagnose the problem, start treatment, and possibly even hospitalize your cat until she’s stable.
Do what’s best. Your vet will probably suggest a very strict diet for your cat and potentially some medications. Follow your vet’s instructions as if your cat’s life depends on it– because it does.
When to Call the Vet
If any of the warning signs of kidney failure appear in your cat, call the vet immediately. Other issues have similar symptoms, and only a thorough examination and blood test can confirm that it’s a kidney problem. The sooner you recognize it, the better the chances of recovery.
DANGER LEVEL: Kidney failure is highly dangerous.
Liver disease is another urinary tract problem that can significantly impact your cat’s health. We’ll explore the warning signs and symptoms in the next section.
FAQ
1. What are some common cat diseases?
There are several common cat diseases, including feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and dental disease. Other diseases to watch out for include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and kidney disease.
2. How can I tell if my cat is sick?
Watch out for changes in your cat’s behavior. If your cat is eating less, vomiting, or has diarrhea, it could be a sign of illness. Other signs to watch out for include lethargy, sudden weight loss, and changes in behavior.
3. What should I do if my cat is sick?
If your cat is showing signs of illness, take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will perform a physical exam and may run tests to determine the cause of the illness. They may also prescribe medication or recommend changes to your cat’s diet.
4. How can I prevent my cat from getting sick?
Make sure your cat is up to date on all their vaccinations, including the FeLV and FIV vaccines. Keep your cat indoors to prevent exposure to other cats who may be carrying diseases. Make sure your cat has a healthy diet and plenty of water.
5. Can I treat my cat’s illness at home?
It is not recommended to treat your cat’s illness at home unless instructed to do so by a vet. Giving your cat medication without proper instruction can be dangerous and may make the illness worse.
6. What is the best way to prevent dental disease in cats?
One of the best ways to prevent dental disease in cats is to brush their teeth regularly. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and either water or a cat-friendly toothpaste. You can also provide your cat with dental treats or toys designed to promote healthy teeth.
7. How can I prevent my cat from getting a urinary tract infection?
Make sure your cat has access to plenty of water and a clean litter box. Feed your cat a diet that is high in moisture and low in ash. If your cat is prone to urinary tract infections, your vet may recommend a special diet or medication to help prevent future infections.
8. What should I do if my cat has diarrhea?
If your cat has diarrhea, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Diarrhea can be a sign of a serious illness and may require medical attention. In the meantime, make sure your cat has access to plenty of water and try to keep them hydrated.
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