How to Know Whether Your Cat Is Sick

• Author: William Asher
• Posted: 2024-05-14

You can look for various symptoms to determine whether your cat needs to see a veterinarian. Cats are very playful and active when healthy, so a sudden decrease in energy levels could indicate something wrong. On the other hand, they are also very good at hiding their illnesses, so it's essential to be aware of any changes in behavior, no matter how small.

Unlike other animals that show early symptoms of illness, such as lethargy and a decrease in appetite, cats often do not show these signs until they are very sick. Therefore, if you notice a cat with the following signs, take it to the vet as soon as possible:

Unusual Urination

If your cat is urinating more frequently than usual, this could be a sign of dehydration, which can lead to serious health problems. It's rare to see a cat urinate in public. If you do, it's crucial to take it to the vet immediately because most healthy cats relieve themselves privately.

Unusual Defecation

If your cat is straining to defecate or has diarrhea, this could be a sign of an intestinal blockage, which is a severe medical emergency. Cats usually defecate once or twice a day, so any change in frequency, for example, more than three times in one day, and watery or bloody stool, warrants a call to the vet. A foul odor, mucus, blood in the stool, or constipation could also indicate a problem. Always check your cat's stool to capture early signs of illness.

Loss of Appetite Indicates Illness in Your Cat

Loss of appetite is one of the most common signs of illness in cats, and can be caused by various factors, including stress, pain, infection, and disease. If your cat suddenly stops eating, it's important to take him to the vet immediately. The sooner you catch the problem, the easier it will be to treat. In many cases, simple changes to diet or lifestyle solve the problem. However, persistence could indicate a more severe health issue.

Vomiting

It's important to pay attention to the vomit's frequency, color, and consistency. For example, if your cat vomits once after eating and then acts normal the rest of the day, it's likely not a cause for concern. However, if your cat vomits multiple times or if the vomit is bloody, consult a vet. Your vet can determine whether the vomiting is due to an infection or an inflammatory disease. In most cases, vomiting is not an emergency, but it is always best to consult with a professional before assuming that everything is fine.

Eye or Nose Discharge

If your cat has a discharge from their eye or nose, it's important to take them to the vet immediately. Although allergies or a simple cold cause a runny nose, it can also signify a more serious illness, such as an upper respiratory infection. Similarly, a watery eye discharge can be a symptom of conjunctivitis, which is highly contagious and can cause discomfort for your cat. So if you notice any discharge from your cat's eye or nose, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.

Hair Loss or Skin Irritation

Our feline friends are notoriously good at hiding their pain and often internalize their discomfort, making it difficult for us to tell when they're not feeling well. Your cat's hair loss and skin irritation signal a hidden health condition. Cats groom themselves frequently, so lack of interest in their fur may indicate that they're not feeling well. In addition, cats rely on their fur for insulation, so if they lose hair, they could have a fever. If you notice any changes in your cat's hair or skin, consult the vet for a check-up.

Limping and Trouble Playing Around

If your cat is normally playful and energetic but suddenly starts limping or having trouble jumping, it may be sick. Several illnesses can cause these problems, so get a diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. With prompt medical care, many of these illnesses heal successfully.

The above signs should help you determine if your cat is sick, and you shouldn't underrate them. Caring for your cat requires constant observation of their behavior and health. Observing the signs helps ensure that your cat gets the care needed in real-time.