Cats are very good at hiding problems. Some feline health issues present themselves in strange ways. It’s always a good idea to have your cat seen by a qualified vet if they develop new habits or display unusual behavior. This is often the first sign of a problem.
Vomiting
Vomiting is an extremely common problem with cats. Often times, vomiting is caused by eating too quickly or ingesting too much hair (hairballs). Other, more serious problems such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, and poisoning can cause vomiting as well. It’s a good idea to have your cat seen by a vet if vomiting comes on suddenly and occurs on a regular basis.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD) are extremely common. In fact, it’s estimated that as many as 3% of all cats seen by vets are diagnosed with this condition. FLUTD has multiple causes and is more common in overweight cats fed a strictly dry food diet. Symptoms of FLUTD include:
- Blood in urine
- Straining to urinate
- Inappropriate elimination (not using the litter box)
- Depression
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting
Sometimes, cats cannot urinate at all. This is an emergency situation! It’s crucial you take you cat to the vet immediately.
Fleas
Signs of fleas include excessive scratching or licking, red skin, and skin infections. A visual inspection of your cat can help you determine if fleas are present. Part the hair and look close to the skin. You might see moving fleas or flea dirt, which looks like coffee grounds that turn red when wet. Fleas are common in both dogs and cats.
Although you might be tempted to give your cat a flea bath or use an over the counter treatment for fleas, this can be dangerous for your cat. Ask your veterinarian or groomer for advice about treating fleas.
Most cat health problems are easily treated when caught early. This is why it’s so important to pay close attention to your cat.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers cat grooming and cat adoptions in Fountain Valley, CA. Please call 714-962-1005 for more information about our grooming services, cat boarding facility, or adoptable pets.