How Can You Tell if a Cat is Not Feeling Well?

Feline health is a complex subject. Cats, like humans, can suffer from a variety of health issues, ranging from minor ailments like a cold or upset stomach to more serious conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. As a responsible cat owner, it's important for you to understand the basics of feline health. This knowledge can help you recognize when something is wrong with your cat, so you can seek professional help if necessary.

How to Recognize Signs of Illness

Recognizing signs of illness in cats starts with understanding their normal behavior. This includes their eating and drinking habits, their grooming behavior, their activity levels, and even their vocalizations. Any significant changes in these areas could be a sign that your cat is unwell.

There are several physical signs that your cat may be unwell. One of the most obvious signs is a change in your cat's appearance. This could be a dull or matted coat, weight loss, or visible injuries. Other physical signs of illness in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or difficulty breathing.

Another sign that your cat might be unwell is a shift in their body temperature. If your cat's ears or nose feel unusually warm, it could be a sign of a fever. Similarly, if your cat's body feels cool to the touch, it could be a sign of hypothermia, which can be caused by a variety of illnesses.

It's also important to pay attention to your cat's eyes and ears. Discharge, redness, or swelling in these areas can be signs of infection or other health issues.

 

Changes in Eating and Drinking Habits

Changes in your cat's eating and drinking habits can be a key indicator that they are not feeling well. If your cat is eating less than usual, it could be a sign of a digestive issue or a more serious health condition. On the other hand, if your cat is eating more than usual, it could be a sign of diabetes or hyperthyroidism.

Drinking habits can also be a sign of health issues. If your cat is drinking more water than usual, it could be a sign of kidney disease or diabetes. If your cat is drinking less water than usual, it could lead to dehydration, which can cause a host of other health problems.

 

Behavioral Changes in Cats

Behavioral changes in cats can also indicate that they are not feeling well. For example, if your cat is usually sociable but suddenly becomes withdrawn, it could be a sign of illness. Similarly, if your cat is usually calm but suddenly becomes aggressive, it could be a sign that they are in pain.

Changes in your cat's grooming habits can also be a sign of illness. Cats are meticulous groomers, so if your cat stops grooming themselves or starts grooming excessively, it could be a sign of a health issue.

 

When to See a Veterinarian

Recognizing serious symptoms in your cat can be challenging, but there are a few signs that should prompt you to seek immediate veterinary attention. These include difficulty breathing, prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, seizures, sudden paralysis, or any signs of severe pain like crying out, acting aggressive, or hiding.

 

Conclusion

Monitoring your cat's health is a crucial part of responsible pet ownership. By understanding your cat's normal behavior and being vigilant for any changes, you can catch potential health issues early and get your furry friend the help they need.

To learn more on how to recognize your cat is unwell, visit Ramsgate Veterinary Clinic at our facility in Waco, Texas. Please call (254) 848-4083 to schedule an appointment today.