In this blog, our Mooresville vets share ways you can tell if your cat is sick, including signs and symptoms to watch for, possible causes, and how you can help your kitty feel better.
Sign Your Cat is Sick
There are times where our cats can get sick and sometimes it could be hard to tell what’s ailing them. While your kitty should visit their veterinarian once a year for their annual wellness exam, health issues can still develop between visits that can make your cat seriously ill. If you notice your cat exhibiting any of the following signs or symptoms, they may be sick and require immediate veterinary care:
You know your cat best and can probably tell when they are not acting or feeling like their normal selves. Even if your kitty has just one of these symptoms but isn’t showing any signs of pain, you need to bring them to the vet.
Possible Causes of Cat Illnesses
There are various issues or conditions that can cause the symptoms listed above. Even though it is normal for cats to change over time as they continue to get older, the sudden appearance of litter box problems can be a sign of anything such as a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or kidney disease.
Extreme weight loss could be caused by cancer, while noticeable weight gain can result in obesity, which can lead to many long-term problems such as diabetes and cancer. These diseases reduce the quality of your cat’s life, and can even shorten their longevity, so it's essential to get them medical attention.
Other problems can be caused by dental diseases. Upper respiratory infections can cause breathing problems, while arthritis or injuries can cause a drop in your cat’s acrobatic activities. Keep an eye on their fur when you are petting them. Any abscesses that are hot to the touch or aren’t healing are also reasons to be concerned.
How to Help You Sick Cat
It can be worrying to see signs that your cat may be sick, but the faster you can get them to a vet, the faster you can get them feeling healthy, happy, and limber again. Since some illnesses or injuries require urgent medical attention, surgery, or even emergency care, it’s essential to seek professional advice.
Contact us today if you think your kitty is sick to schedule an appointment. At Lake Norman at Mooresville Animal Hospital, our Mooresville vets have the tools and training they need to diagnose your cat's illnesses and develop a customized treatment plan to meet the needs of your kitty.
