11 Most Common Cat Illnesses to Watch Out For: Keep Your Furry Friend Healthy

Cats are amazing pets, but like all living creatures, they can get sick.

Knowing about the most common cat illnesses can help you keep your furry friend healthy and happy. By being aware of these common illnesses, you can spot symptoms early and get your cat the care they need quickly.

Even though cats can’t tell us when something’s wrong, there are signs and symptoms you can watch for.

This article will introduce some of the most common illnesses that affect cats and what you can do to help keep your pet in good health.

1) Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a common health issue in cats.

It affects their bladder and urethra, causing discomfort and other problems.

Cats with FLUTD may urinate outside the litter box, often choosing places like clothes, beds, or rugs.

You might notice your cat making frequent trips to the litter box but only passing small amounts of urine.

Sometimes, they might strain or show signs of pain while urinating.

This could be due to various underlying problems like inflammation, bladder stones, or urethral plugs.

Idiopathic cystitis, also known as interstitial cystitis, is one of the most common types of FLUTD.

Its cause is unknown, but stress and anxiety can make it worse.

Cats under 10 years old are most likely to suffer from this.

While infections are less common, they can still occur, especially in older cats.

In rare cases, there might be bladder tumors or severe blockages.

If you notice any symptoms, it’s best to consult a vet.

Early detection can help manage the condition better and keep your cat comfortable and healthy.

2) Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a serious disease that affects cats and is caused by a coronavirus.

Not all cats exposed to the virus will develop FIP, but those that do often face severe consequences.

FIP mostly occurs in environments where many cats live close together, like shelters or catteries.

This is because the virus spreads more easily in crowded conditions.

There are two main forms of FIP: wet and dry.

The wet form is marked by a buildup of fluid in the abdomen or chest, which can lead to difficulty breathing.

The dry form involves organ inflammation without fluid accumulation.

Cats with FIP may show signs like weight loss, fever, and lack of energy.

In some cases, they may have neurological symptoms such as seizures or difficulty walking.

Diagnosing FIP can be tricky.

Vets often use a combination of blood tests, fluid analysis, and looking at symptoms to confirm it.

Unfortunately, FIP is usually fatal, though treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for a short time.

Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent FIP, keeping your cat in a less crowded environment and maintaining good hygiene practices can reduce the risk.

Regular vet check-ups can also help catch any issues early.

3) Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common illness in older cats.

It’s caused by an overactive thyroid gland, which leads to too much thyroid hormone in the body.

This condition usually affects cats that are middle-aged or older.

You might notice your cat losing weight even though they seem hungrier than ever.

This weight loss happens because the overactive thyroid speeds up your cat’s metabolism.

Other signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, and a higher heart rate.

Your cat might also become more restless or even irritable due to this condition.

An overactive thyroid can lead to serious health problems if not treated.

These problems can affect your cat’s heart and kidneys, making timely treatment important.

Tests to diagnose hyperthyroidism include blood work to check thyroid hormone levels.

Treatment options vary but often involve medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine treatment.

Catch hyperthyroidism early to ensure your cat stays healthy.

Regular vet check-ups are key, especially as your cat gets older.

4) Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus is a condition that affects cats just as it does humans.

It happens when your cat’s body can’t produce enough insulin to balance their blood sugar levels.

This can lead to a range of health problems if not managed properly.

Common symptoms include excessive urination and thirst.

Your cat might drink a lot of water and pee more often.

They may also lose weight, even if they are eating normally, or show a reduced appetite.

Other signs to watch for are lethargy, vomiting, and a change in their breath smell.

Foul-smelling breath can be a clue something’s wrong.

Regular checks with your vet are crucial since early diagnosis can help manage the condition better.

Treatment usually involves insulin injections that you give at home.

Your vet will show you how to do this and determine the right dosage based on your cat’s blood sugar levels.

Lifestyle changes, like diet adjustments, are also important in managing diabetes in cats.

5) Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a big issue for cats, especially older ones.

It’s one of the main health problems your furry friend might face.

This disease can sneak up slowly over time or hit suddenly.

Cats with kidney disease often drink more and pee more.

As it gets worse, you might see them lose weight, feel weak, and stop eating as much.

Vomiting and diarrhea can also happen.

Infections in the bladder and kidneys are common and can make things worse.

These infections can be caused by bacteria, which thrive in the dilute urine produced by failing kidneys.

Keeping an eye on your cat’s behavior and taking them to the vet regularly can help catch kidney disease early.

Early treatment can make a big difference.

6) Dental Disease

Dental disease is very common in cats, especially as they get older.

You may notice bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating in your feline friend.

If your cat is pawing at its mouth or acting irritable when eating, dental issues might be the culprit.

The most common dental problems include gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is an inflamed gum condition that can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding.

If not treated, it can lead to periodontitis, a more severe issue affecting the teeth’s support structures.

Another serious dental issue is gingivostomatitis.

This is a chronic inflammation affecting the gums and other soft tissues in the mouth.

Cats with gingivostomatitis may show extreme pain, making it uncomfortable to eat or groom.

Regular dental check-ups can help catch these problems early.

Brushing your cat’s teeth and providing dental treats or toys can also help maintain their oral health.

If your cat shows signs of dental disease, it’s best to consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

7) Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections (URI) are common in cats.

They are often compared to a human cold and mainly affect the nose, throat, and sinuses.

URIs are usually caused by viruses or bacteria.

The two most common viruses are feline herpesvirus and calicivirus.

Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and congestion.

Your cat may also have a cough and watery eyes.

Some cats might lose their appetite and become less active.

If you notice these signs, it’s a good idea to visit the vet.

Most URIs are not serious and can be treated at home, but a vet can confirm the diagnosis.

They might suggest medications to help your cat recover faster.

To prevent the spread of infection, wash your hands after handling your cat, and disinfect their dishes and litter box regularly.

If you have more than one cat, isolate the sick one to avoid spreading the illness to others.

8) Heartworm

Heartworm in cats is a serious issue.

Unlike dogs, cats are not natural hosts for heartworms, making their symptoms unexpected and sometimes more severe.

One of the first signs you might notice is coughing.

Your cat might have a persistent cough that doesn’t go away.

Another sign is unexplained weight loss, even if their appetite seems normal.

You should also look out for lethargy.

If your cat is less active and seems tired more often, it could be a sign of heartworm.

Vomiting, often with food or sometimes blood, can also be a symptom.

In more severe cases, you might notice your cat having difficulty walking.

Fainting, seizures, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen are also possible.

In the worst cases, heartworm can cause sudden death.

These symptoms are similar to those of other conditions like feline asthma, so it’s important to consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.

9) Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Feline Leukemia Virus, or FeLV, is a serious disease in cats.

It’s caused by a virus that affects their immune system.

About 2-3% of all cats in the U.S. might have FeLV, but it’s more common in those who are already ill or at high risk.

FeLV is mainly spread through saliva, so cats can get it from sharing food and water bowls or grooming each other.

It can also be passed through blood and, to a lesser extent, urine and feces.

Kittens can get it from their mother during birth or through her milk.

FeLV can cause a number of health issues.

Cats with FeLV might develop cancer, blood disorders, or other infections due to their weakened immune systems.

Sadly, cats with FeLV often don’t live as long, but some can still have quality time with proper care.

Prevention is important.

There’s a vaccine for FeLV, which is recommended, especially for cats that go outside or live with other cats.

Regular vet check-ups and FeLV tests can help keep your cat safe and healthy.

If a cat tests positive, it’s best to keep them away from non-infected cats to avoid spreading the virus.

10) Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, or FIV, is a virus that affects cats worldwide.

It attacks a cat’s immune system, which makes them more likely to get other infections.

Cats with FIV can seem healthy for years but will eventually start to show signs of immune system problems.

The most common way for a cat to get FIV is through a bite from another infected cat.

It’s not easily spread through casual contact, like sharing food bowls or from humans touching them.

It can also be passed from a mother cat to her kittens through blood or milk, though this is rare.

Cats with FIV might not show symptoms right away.

When they do, symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and infections of the gums, skin, or bladder.

You might also notice weight loss, poor coat condition, and persistent diarrhea.

To keep your cat safe from FIV, keep them indoors and away from cats that might be infected.

Regular vet check-ups can help catch any signs of illness early.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for FIV, but with the right care, infected cats can still live long and happy lives.

11) Obesity

Obesity is a common health issue in cats.

It happens when your cat’s body weight is 20% or more above its ideal weight.

It’s usually caused by overeating and lack of exercise.

Free-feeding can contribute to obesity.

This is when food is left out all day for your cat to eat whenever it wants.

Neutered cats often have a slower metabolism, which can lead to weight gain.

Low-quality diets are also a factor.

Commercial cat foods with lots of fillers can pack on unnecessary pounds.

Make sure you provide a balanced diet with proper nutrition.

Diagnosing obesity can be done by weighing your cat and using a Body Condition Score (BCS) chart.

A BCS chart rates your cat’s body from emaciated to obese.

An ideal score is in the middle range.

Obesity can lead to several other health problems.

Overweight cats are at risk for diabetes, arthritis, and urinary tract diseases.

These conditions often require frequent vet visits and treatments.

To help your cat lose weight, increase its playtime and monitor its food intake.

Talk to your vet about the best diet plan.

Regular vet check-ups can help keep your cat healthy and fit.

Understanding Cat Health

Caring for your cat’s health means keeping an eye on their behavior and taking them to the vet regularly.

These two aspects are crucial for early disease detection and overall well-being.

Recognizing Symptoms Early

Paying close attention to your cat’s daily habits can help you notice when something’s off.

Look for changes in eating and drinking patterns, unusual weight loss or gain, and a lack of grooming.

You might also spot behavioral changes like hiding more often or acting aggressively.

Being aware of specific symptoms is important. Common signs of illness include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Sneezing or coughing
• Lethargy or noticeable pain
• Changes in litter box habits

Regularly checking your cat’s eyes, ears, and mouth can also help you catch early signs of trouble.

Be cautious and take any unusual symptoms seriously.

Early intervention can lead to more effective treatments.

Importance of Regular Vet Visits

Regular vet visits are essential for keeping your cat healthy.

During these visits, the vet can perform physical exams, administer vaccines, and run routine tests.

These check-ups are key to catching illnesses before they become serious.

Your vet can also give you valuable advice on nutrition, dental care, and other aspects of your cat’s health.

Don’t wait for a problem to arise.

Schedule these visits at least once a year, but more often for older cats or those with known health issues.

Regular check-ups build a health history for your cat, providing your vet with better insights over time.

It’s a proactive way to ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy.

Preventive Measures

Taking care of your cat’s health involves regular vaccinations, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups.

These steps help protect your cat from many common diseases and improve their overall well-being.

Vaccinations and Immunizations

Vaccinating your cat is crucial.

Vaccinations protect against diseases like Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), rabies, and cat flu (feline viral rhinotracheitis).

Most vets recommend key vaccines for kittens and booster shots for adult cats.

Cats should receive core vaccines, which include:

• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia)
• Rabies

Core vaccines are a must for every cat, while non-core vaccines depend on risk factors like lifestyle and environment.

Always consult your vet for personalized advice.

Proper Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for keeping your cat healthy.

Cats require a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Feeding your cat the right amount of quality food helps prevent obesity, which is linked to diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.

Key points for proper cat nutrition:

• Choose high-quality cat food: Look for meat as the first ingredient.
• Portion control: Follow feeding guidelines and avoid overfeeding.
• Regular feeding times: Consistency helps with digestion and prevents overeating.
• Hydration: Ensure fresh water is always available.

Consider occasional treats, but keep them minimal to avoid extra calories.

Consult your vet for dietary recommendations tailored to your cat’s specific needs.

Remember, a healthy diet sets the foundation for a long, happy life.