Cats are like babies or little kids, they don’t say if they feel bad but it shows. So, how to tell if cat is sick? Let’s discover the top signs and symptoms.
On average, kittens get sick around 1.5 years old and about 2.4 times a year. However, the number is not accurate because it differs from one cat to another.
How To Tell if Cat is Sick?
There are many causes of illness in cats, from poor nutrition to viral infections. If you have a cat, it is important to know how to tell if your cat is sick.
Top 10 Signs and Symptoms for Sick Cat
1. Change in Appetite
Is your cat not eating or eating less? It may be a sign that something is wrong. A sudden decrease in appetite can be a sign of liver disease, diabetes, or even stress.
In case your cat is eating more than usual, it could be a symptom that they are suffering from an overactive thyroid.
2. Change in Water Intake
In the event your cat is drinking more water than usual, it could be a sign of diabetes or kidney disease. In the opposite case, if your cat is drinking less water, it could be a sign of dehydration.
3. Change in Bathroom Habits
Have you noticed that your cat is urinating more or less than usual? it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, kidney disease, or diabetes. If your cat is having difficulty urinating, it could be a sign of a blockage.
4. Change in Activity Level
In case your cat is sleeping more than usual or seems less active, it might be a symptom of depression, pain, or illness. On the other hand, if your cat is more active than usual, it could be a sign of an overactive thyroid.
5. Change in Coat and Skin
If it happens and your cat’s coat is dull, dry, or brittle, it could be a sign of poor nutrition or illness. If you notice any bald spots, it could be a sign of ringworm. If your little kitty is excessively grooming, it could be a sign of allergies or stress.
6. Change in Eyes
In some conditions, your cat’s eyes might turn red, itchy, or runny. This could be a sign of allergies. If your feline’s eyes are dilated or seem glassy, it could be a sign of pain or illness.
7. Change in Ear Health
If your cat’s ears are red, itchy, or both, it could be a symptom of allergies or an ear infection. If your cat is shaking its head or scratching its ears, it could be a sign of an ear mite infestation.
8. Vomiting and Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea are both common signs of illness in cats. If your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
9. Bad Breath
If your cat has bad breath, it could be a sign of dental disease. If you notice any other changes in your cat’s mouth, such as red gums or missing teeth, it is important to take them to the vet.
10. Weight Loss
In the event your cat is losing weight, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If you notice any other changes in your cat’s weight, such as a sudden gain or loss, it is important to take them to the vet.
Useful Cats Foods That May Help
Some foods may help keep your cat healthy. Here are the top 5 cats foods to consider:
1. Tuna
Tuna is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It can help keep your cat’s coat healthy and shiny.
2. Salmon
Salmon is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains vitamin B6, niacin, and vitamin D which are good for your cat’s health.
3. Chicken
In addition to protein, Chicken is a good source of B vitamins, including niacin, thiamine, and vitamin B6. It also contains selenium, phosphorus, and choline which helps keep your cat in great shape.
4. Turkey
Turkey is a good source of protein and can help to keep your cat’s weight down. It also contains selenium, which is good for the skin and coat.
5. Beef
Beef contains protein, B vitamins, iron, and phosphorus. It can help to keep your cat’s muscles strong and healthy.
When it comes to feeding your cat, it is important to give them a balanced and nutritious diet.
There are many healthy cat foods available that can help to keep your cat healthy and in a good shape.
Can I Feed My Cat any Type of Fruits and Vegetables?
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require animal-based proteins to survive. However, there are a few fruits and vegetables that are safe for cats to eat.
Some of the best fruits and vegetables for cats include:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
- Green Beans
- Kiwi
- Mango
- Pumpkin
- Spinach
While these fruits and vegetables are generally safe to be consumed by cats, however, you need to serve them in moderation.
Tips to Reduce Chances of Getting Your Cat Sick
There are some things you can do to reduce the chances of your cat getting sick. Here are a few tips:
- Feed your cat a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Keep your cat’s litter box clean.
- Give your cat plenty of freshwater.
- Take your cat to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations.
- Keep your cat indoors to protect them from diseases and parasites.
By following these tips, you can help keep your cat healthy and happy.
When to See a Vet?
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your cat, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Early detection and treatment of illness can save your cat’s life.
Cats are masters of hiding their pain and discomfort. So, it is up to you to be observant and take them to the vet when something is wrong.
Takeaway
In conclusion, how to tell if cat is sick? Several signs and symptoms may indicate your cat is sick such as loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, loose motion, and many more.
Cats are good at hiding their pain, so it is important to keep an eye all the time and take them to the vet when something is wrong.
You can help reduce the chances of your cat getting sick by feeding them a nutritious diet, keeping their litter box clean, and taking them to the vet for regular check-ups.
Shop Top-Featured Cats Products on Amazon
If you enjoyed reading this story, you may want to checkout Cats Vomiting Foam: Causes, Treatment and Prevention Tips.
References: