Going to the doctor is a disruptive but necessary part of our lives. The same is true for our cats. It is important to monitor your cat’s health. As natural predators, cats will hide any signs of weakness. Regular visits to vet help catch illness and injury early, including diseases like cancer, heartworm, and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Here are warning signs that your cat may need a visit to the vet:
1. Excessive Talking
If your cat is vocalizing more than normal, they could be trying to tell you something. Before rushing off, make sure all his or her basic needs are met first. Check the food and water bowls, give your cat affection, and make sure the litter box is clean. If your cat continues to meow they could be signaling a health problem. A precautionary vet visit would be a good idea.
2. The Sniffles
Many of the same symptoms as humans can be seen in sick cats. A runny nose, coughing, and sneezing are signs that your cat is not feeling well. Even though it could just be a cold, these seemingly mild symptoms are not something to ignore. These are also the symptoms of feline herpes and feline calicivirus, two serious diseases. If symptoms last longer than ten days, a check-up is in order. Wipe away mucous with a warm damp cloth carefully and be sure to wash your hands after.
3. Excessive Sleeping/Not Eating
Cats are professional sleepers, snoozing up to 16 hours a day! However, if your cat is choosing to sleep instead of doing regular activities, it could be a red flag. Cats love to play, snuggle, and eat. If they are sleeping instead, it is a warning sign of potential health problems. Going even two days without eating can lead to a metabolic disease called hepatic lipidosis or fatty liver disease. If your cat goes a day without eating, contact your veterinarian.
4. Missing the Mark
If your cat is missing the litter box, first make sure that the box is clean. Litter boxes should be cleaned out daily and scrubbed once a week to keep your cat happy and healthy. If your cat continues to miss the box, there could be a health problem in need of attention. Missing the box could be a sign of a virus, bacterial infection, or parasite.
5. Hair Loss
Grooming is a favorite activity of cats and all that licking will lead to some hair loss. If you notice more than average hair loss, it could be a sign of trouble. Look for bald spots that uncover scaly skin as this could be a sign of ringworm. This is a fungal infection that is easily treatable. Excessive hair loss could also be related to more serious health issues like a thyroid problem or Cushing’s Disease. If you see this in your cat, it is best that they go to the vet.
The Right Fluff Pet Sitting wishes you and your cats health and happiness. Remember, preventative care goes a long way. If you ever have a concern, it is best to get it checked out. Regular visits to the vet will help your cat stay healthy for years to come!
