Numerous cat illnesses and their symptoms may worry you, or even be fatal if left untreated for too long. Our vets offer insight on signs and symptoms to be aware of.
What are some common cat illnesses?
Here are some illnesses to be aware of as a cat parent. Be prepared to visit your veterinarian if necessary, especially since sick cats tend to isolate themselves instinctively. The following are three common feline illnesses and their symptoms.
Upper Respiratory Infections
Your cat's upper respiratory tract—its throat, nose, and sinuses—can become infected with viruses and bacteria. Often passed around in multi-cat households and shelters, cats may contract feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus through something as basic as sharing a food or water bowl.
They can transmit this virus to other cats in the same way, or by sneezing or coughing. It can also be passed during grooming.
Symptoms include:
Gagging, drooling
Runny nose or clear/colored nasal discharge
Fever
Cough
Sneezing
Decreased or lost appetite
Congestion
Diabetes
If a cat doesn't produce sufficient insulin to balance blood sugar or glucose levels, they develop diabetes mellitus. Left untreated, it may lead to several serious symptoms, such as:
Thirst
Increased urination
An increased appetite (as the body cannot use the energy in food) or loss of appetite
Vomiting
Dehydration
Motor function problems
Coma
Death
Diabetes, if not properly managed, can shorten a cat's life and cause a variety of health issues, including nerve disorders. It may also lead to life-threatening situations. Treatment will focus on managing this condition and may include insulin injections.
Cancer
The uncontrolled growth of cells can cause cancer, which can affect a wide range of organs and cells in a cat's body. The disease first starts to develop within a cell, before it attaches to tissue below the skin and potentially spreads to other areas.
A common contributor to cancer is Feline Leukemia Virus, which cats can be diagnosed against. Other causes include environmental toxins. If caught early during a physical exam, your vet may be able to treat the cancer.
Symptoms include:
Lumps or bumps that change in size or shape
Sores that do not heal
An odor from the mouth
Unexplained bleeding or discharge
Marked increase or decrease in appetite
Chronic weight loss
Difficulty urinating or defecating
Depending on whether the tumor is caught and diagnosed early enough, the type of cancer and its extent, specific location within the body, etc., whether an effective treatment plan can be developed, and other factors, a number of treatments such as radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy may be attempted.
What should I do if my cat is ill?
If your cat is sick and exhibiting any of the above symptoms, take them to the vet as soon as possible. We have an in-house laboratory, pharmacy, and emergency clinic at Southborough Veterinary Hospital to provide your pet with the care they require.
Do you suspect your cat is sick? Our vets are experienced in diagnosing and treating many common illnesses and conditions. Book an appointment at Southborough Veterinary Hospital today.
