The Most Common Diseases in Cats: 10 Health Problems and Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Cats have a special way of hiding their weakness and pain. Therefore, a cat can be facing a health problem without showing any strong symptoms at first. For this reason, every owner needs to know what the signs are. most common diseases in cats and, most importantly, what early signs to look out for.
Is your cat suddenly drinking more water? Is she losing weight while eating normally? Is she going to the litter box more often? Has she stopped jumping on her favorite couch?;
These changes may seem small. However, they are sometimes the first symptoms of illness in cats.
Next, we will look at 10 common health problems in cats, their symptoms, when a veterinary check-up is needed, and what we can do for prevention.
1. How common is dental disease in cats?;
Very common. Dental and gum disease is one of the most common health problems in adult cats.
According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, studies show that approximately 50% to 90% of cats over four years old They have some form of dental disease. Gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption are among the most common conditions.
What symptoms indicate a dental problem?;
Pay attention if the cat:
- has severe bad breath,
- has difficulty chewing,
- lets food fall out of the mouth,
- has red or swollen gums,
- shows increased salivation,
- eats less than before.
In fact, a cat may continue to eat even when in pain, which is why regular oral checkups by a veterinarian are especially important.
2. What is chronic kidney disease in cats?;
Η chronic kidney disease in cats It causes a gradual and permanent decline in kidney function. It occurs mainly in older ages and is one of the most important health problems in senior cats.
Cornell reports that chronic kidney disease can affect up to 40% of cats over 10 years of age and up to 80% of cats over 15 years of age. Additionally, in the early stages, the cat may not show any obvious symptoms.
What are the symptoms of kidney disease?;
The owner may notice:
- more thirst,
- increased urination,
- gradual weight loss,
- decreased appetite,
- vomiting,
- dehydration,
- lethargy,
- change in coat quality.
Why is early diagnosis necessary?; Because the veterinarian can assess kidney function with blood and urine tests and plan appropriate management as early as possible.
3. Why do urinary problems in cats need attention?;
The Urological problems in cats include various diseases of the bladder and urethra. The term FLUTD – Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease describes a set of disorders of the lower urinary tract.
How do we know that the cat has a urinary problem?;
Notice if:
- repeatedly visits the sand,
- straining to urinate,
- produces little urine,
- urinates outside the sand,
- has blood in the urine,
- cries out when trying to urinate,
- persistently licks the genital area.
When does it become an emergency?;
When a cat, especially a male cat, tries to urinate but does not produce urine, immediate veterinary assistance is needed.
Complete urethral obstruction is a true emergency and can be life-threatening.
Therefore, we are not waiting to "see if it will pass.".
4. What is hyperthyroidism in cats?;
Ο hyperthyroidism in cats occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. The condition is most common in middle-aged and older cats.
What is the most characteristic symptom?;
A cat can eating more but losing weight at the same time.
Additionally, it may display:
- increased appetite,
- increased thirst,
- more frequent urination,
- hyperactivity,
- intense meowing,
- vomiting or diarrhea,
- tachycardia,
- unkempt hair.
Hyperthyroidism occurs primarily in cats over seven years of age, and diagnosis usually involves measuring the thyroid hormone T4.
5. Can cats get diabetes?;
Yes. Diabetes mellitus is a major endocrine disease in cats.
The body does not use insulin effectively and, as a result, blood glucose levels increase.
What are the symptoms of diabetes in cats?;
The most common signs include:
- excessive thirst,
- increased urination,
- increased appetite,
- weight loss,
- weakness,
- reduced activity.
Obesity is also a major risk factor. According to Cornell, obese cats may have up to four times the risk of developing diabetes compared to cats of normal weight.
6. Is obesity a disease for a cat?;
Η obesity in cats It is not just a cosmetic problem. On the contrary, it significantly affects overall health and increases the risk of other diseases.
What problems can increased weight cause?;
Obesity is associated with:
- increased risk of diabetes,
- reduced mobility,
- greater burden on the joints,
- difficulty in self-care,
- reduced physical activity.
Therefore, the veterinarian can evaluate the Body Condition Score and determine the ideal weight.
However, we should not abruptly reduce the food of an overweight cat without veterinary guidance.
7. How common are respiratory infections in cats?;
The respiratory infections in cats They occur frequently, especially in young cats and in environments where many animals live together, such as shelters and kennels.
How do we understand a respiratory infection?;
We often see:
- sneezing,
- nasal discharge,
- tears or discharge from the eyes,
- conjunctivitis,
- cough,
- fever,
- decreased appetite,
- lethargy,
- in some cases, mouth ulcers.
Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus are known agents of respiratory disease.
Furthermore, proper vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness, although it does not eliminate all possibility of infection.
8. Which parasites most commonly infect cats?;
Cats can be infected with various intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms, but also from protozoa such as Giardia.
What symptoms do parasites cause?;
The cat may present with:
- diarrhea,
- vomiting,
- weight loss,
- decreased appetite,
- swollen belly,
- dull coat.
In some cat populations, gastrointestinal parasitism has been reported at rates up to 45%. At the same time, some parasites can also be transmitted to humans.
Therefore, we implement a deworming program according to the veterinarian's personalized instructions.
9. Do older cats get arthritis?;
Yes, and quite often. However, owners don't always easily recognize the symptoms.
How do we know that a cat has joint pain?;
It can:
- stop jumping high,
- avoids stairs,
- moves less,
- sleeps more,
- has difficulty entering the sand,
- takes less care of her hair,
- reacts when we touch specific points.
The important thing is that A cat with arthritis does not necessarily limp.. Often it's just a matter of changing her daily routine. Cornell points out that degenerative joint disease is common in older cats.
10. Can cats get cancer?;
Yes. As with other animals, cats can develop different forms of cancer, and the risk of certain cancers increases with age.
What signs need investigation?;
Contact a veterinarian if you notice:
- unexplained weight loss,
- persistent loss of appetite,
- lumps or swellings,
- wounds that don't heal,
- unusual bleeding,
- persistent vomiting or diarrhea,
- significant change in behavior.
Of course, none of these symptoms does not mean in itself that the cat has cancer. However, veterinary evaluation is needed when a symptom persists.
How do we generally understand that a cat is sick?;
This is perhaps the most important question for every owner.
We observe our cat every day, so we can spot small changes before they become big ones.
What signs of illness in cats should we watch for?;
Pay attention to changes:
- in appetite,
- in water consumption,
- in weight,
- in urination,
- in bowel movements,
- in sleep,
- in the game,
- in care,
- in the meowing,
- in social behavior,
- in breathing.
For example, a cat that suddenly hides more, no longer climbs on the couch, or avoids contact may be showing us that it is not feeling well.
When should we take the cat to the vet immediately?;
Not every symptom should cause panic. However, some situations require emergency veterinary care.
Seek immediate help when the cat:
- tries to urinate but can't,
- has difficulty breathing,
- collapses or shows severe weakness,
- has convulsions,
- has severe bleeding,
- has continuous or severe vomiting,
- has suffered a serious injury,
- has possibly consumed a toxic substance,
- experiences sudden paralysis or weakness in the extremities.
In particular, the inability to urinate is an absolute emergency.
How can we protect our cat's health?;
Prevention cannot prevent every disease. However, it can significantly help in early diagnosis and maintaining a better quality of life.
What can we do every day?;
- We schedule regular veterinary checkups.
- We follow the appropriate vaccination schedule.
- We apply proper anti-parasitic protection.
- We keep the cat at a healthy weight.
- We offer a balanced diet.
- We ensure clean and fresh water every day.
- We encourage play and movement.
- We monitor dental health.
- We check the sand habits daily.
- We observe any change in behavior.
As your cat ages, preventive checkups become even more important. Chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, diabetes, and other conditions are more common in older cats.
Conclusion: Our cat can't tell us it's hurting — but it can show us
The knowledge surrounding the most common diseases in cats helps the owner to identify important changes in a timely manner.
We don't need to be veterinarians to protect our cat. However, we do need to know its normal weight, appetite, the amount of water it drinks, its litter habits, and its usual behavior.
Ultimately, the most important question is simple: «Is my cat behaving as usual?»
If the answer is no and the change persists, contact your veterinarian. Early recognition of a problem can make a significant difference in both treatment and the cat's quality of life.
The article provides general information about cat health and does not replace a veterinarian's examination, diagnosis, or treatment instructions.
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