Cats are masters at hiding illness, and because changes in their normal behavior are usually the first signs of sickness, cat owners should know what to look for and when to contact our office for a complete examination and evaluation. Here are 10 signs your cat may have an illness:
1. Inappropriate Elimination Behavior
Litter box care and knowledge about normal elimination behavior is important for prevention and treatment of medical and behavioral problems. Inappropriate urination and defecation often accompany an underlying medical condition and do not occur “for spite.”
A cat that is urinating inappropriately may have any number of conditions associated with the behavior, including lower urinary tract disease, kidney disease, urinary tract infection and diabetes mellitus. It can also be a sign of arthritis, which makes it difficult for the cat to get into the litter box.
Blockage of the urinary tract signals a veterinary emergency. A blockage is treatable, but timing is critical. Once identified, the cat must receive veterinary care as soon as possible. Otherwise, fatal complications could develop. Signs to look for include straining in the litter box with little or no results, crying when urinating, and frequent attempts to urinate.
2. Changes in Interaction
Cats are social animals and enjoy interactions with their human family and often with other pets. Changes in those interactions may signal problems such as disease, fear and anxiety. It may also signal pain, which can cause aggression.
3. Changes in Activity
A decrease or increase in activity can be a sign of a number of conditions. As cats age, there is increased risk of arthritis. Discomfort from joint disease or systemic illnesses can also lead to a decrease in activity. It’s important to understand cats usually don’t slow down just because they are old. Increased activity is often seen with hyperthyroidism. Any changes in routine activity warrant a visit to the veterinarian.
4. Changes in Sleeping Habits
The key to differentiating abnormal lethargy from normal napping is knowing your cat’s sleeping patterns. The average adult cat may spend 16 to 18 hours per day sleeping. This is normal, but much of that sleeping is “catnapping.” The cat should respond quickly to usual stimuli, such as the owner walking into the room or cat food being prepared. If your cat is sleeping more than usual or has discomfort laying down and getting up, this may be a sign of underlying disease.
5. Changes in Food and Water Consumption
Look for changes, such as a decrease or an increase in consumption and how the cat chews its food. Decreased food intake can be a sign of a number of disorders, ranging from poor dental health to cancer or kidney disease. Increased food consumption can be caused by diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, or other health problems. Changes in water consumption may be more difficult to observe, especially in cats that spend time outdoors or drink from toilets and sinks. Increased water intake can be an early indicator of thyroid problems, kidney disease, diabetes, or other problems.
6. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
A change in weight does not necessarily correlate with a change in appetite. Cats with hyperthyroidism or diabetes mellitus can lose weight despite good appetites. Many other diseases cause both appetite and weight loss. If your cat goes to the food dish and then backs away from it without eating, nausea may be the source. On the other hand, obesity has become a serious health concern in cats, with increased risk of diabetes mellitus, joint disease and other problems. Take the cat to the veterinarian if there are unexplained changes in weight.
7. Changes in Grooming
Typically, cats are fastidious groomers. Note whether your cat’s coat is clean and free of mats. Patches of hair loss or a greasy or matted appearance can signal an underlying disease. Also be aware if your cat has difficulty grooming. A decrease in grooming behavior can indicate a number of conditions, including fear, anxiety, obesity or other illnesses. An increase in grooming may be a sign of a skin problem.
8. Signs of Stress
Yes, your cat can be stressed despite having an “easy” life. Boredom and sudden changes are common causes of stress in cats. Stressed cats may demonstrate decreased grooming and social interaction, spend more time awake and scanning their environment, hide more, withdraw and exhibit signs of depression, and have an increased or decreased appetite. These same signs may indicate a medical condition. Unfortunately also, stress can precipitate many diseases in cats. It is important to rule out medical problems first, and then address the causes of environmental stress.
9. Changes in Vocalization
Increased vocalization or howling is more common in older cats and is often seen with some underlying condition. Many cats also have increased vocalization if they are in pain or anxious. If you note a change in vocalization, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out medical problems and to obtain suggestions for minimizing or eliminating the behavior.
10. Bad Breath
Studies show 70 percent of cats have gum disease as early as age three. Since dental disease is considered a silent disease, it is important to have your cat’s teeth checked every six months to help prevent dental disease or to start treatment early. One of the early indicators of an oral problem is bad breath. Regular dental care can prevent bad breath, pain, tooth loss and spread of infection to other organs.