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Common Diseases in Cats and What to Watch Out For

Writer's picture: For Cats OnlyFor Cats Only

Cats, like all pets, are susceptible to a variety of health conditions. Being aware of common feline diseases and their symptoms can help you recognize problems early and get your cat the care they need. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common diseases in cats and what to watch out for to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.



1. Feline Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)

Upper respiratory infections are very common in cats, especially in shelters or multi-cat households. These infections are caused by viruses such as feline herpesvirus (FHV) or feline calicivirus (FCV), often leading to flu-like symptoms.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Sneezing, coughing

• Runny nose or eyes

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty breathing


Prevention and treatment: Vaccinations can help prevent, or lessen the severity of, many respiratory infections. Most cases are treated with supportive care. In severe cases, antibiotics and antiviral medications may be necessary.


2. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is an umbrella term for several conditions that affect the bladder and urethra in cats. Stress, bladder stones, or urinary tract infections can all contribute to FLUTD. Male cats are particularly at risk for life-threatening urinary blockages.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Frequent or painful urination

• Blood in the urine

• Straining to urinate with little output

• Licking of the genital area

• Crying out in pain while urinating


Prevention and treatment: Ensuring your cat has a balanced diet and stays hydrated can help reduce the risk of FLUTD. If symptoms appear, immediate veterinary attention is essential, as urinary blockages can be fatal if not treated promptly.


3. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

FIV weakens a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. It’s transmitted through bites, so outdoor or feral cats are at higher risk. While there is no cure, cats with FIV can live long, healthy lives with proper care.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Recurrent infections

• Weight loss

• Fever

• Diarrhea

• Swollen lymph nodes


Prevention and treatment: There is no vaccine for FIV, so preventing fights and bites is key. Keep your cat indoors and spay or neuter them to reduce aggressive behavior. If your cat is diagnosed with FIV, regular vet visits and prompt treatment of secondary infections are vital.


4. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)


FeLV is a viral infection that can cause immune suppression, anemia, and even cancer. It is transmitted through close contact, grooming, and shared litter boxes or food bowls. Fortunately, there is a vaccine to protect against FeLV infection.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Lethargy

• Weight loss

• Persistent fever

• Pale gums

• Enlarged lymph nodes


Prevention and treatment: Vaccination against FeLV is the best prevention for cats who are at risk of exposure to the virus. There is no cure, but affected cats can live for years with proper care, including keeping them indoors and providing regular medical attention.


5. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in older cats where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to increased metabolism. It results in weight loss and hyperactivity, even though the cat may have a voracious appetite.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Weight loss despite increased appetite

• Restlessness or hyperactivity

• Increased thirst and urination

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Unkempt coat


Prevention and treatment: Hyperthyroidism can be managed through medication, diet changes, or in some cases, surgery or radioactive iodine therapy. Routine bloodwork for older cats can help detect this disease early.


6. Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes in cats occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or the body becomes resistant to it. This results in high blood sugar levels. Overweight cats are more prone to developing diabetes.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Weight loss despite good appetite

• Lethargy

• Vomiting

• Poor coat condition


Prevention and treatment: Maintaining a healthy weight and diet can help prevent diabetes in cats. Treatment often involves insulin injections, dietary management, and regular veterinary monitoring to keep blood sugar levels in check.


7. Dental Disease

Dental disease is a common but often overlooked condition in cats. Plaque buildup can lead to gingivitis and more serious infections if left untreated. Dental issues can also cause pain and affect a cat’s ability to eat properly.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Bad breath

• Drooling

• Difficulty chewing or dropping food

• Swollen or bleeding gums

• Pawing at the mouth


Prevention and treatment: Regular brushing and dental check-ups are the best prevention. Professional cleanings, and in some cases extractions, may be required to resolve infections and pain.


8. Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent condition in older cats, often leading to kidney failure over time. It affects the kidneys’ ability to filter waste, causing toxins to build up in the blood.


Symptoms to watch for:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Weight loss

• Poor appetite

• Vomiting

• Lethargy


Prevention and treatment: There is no cure for CKD, but early detection through routine blood and urine tests can help manage the disease. Special diets, medications, and fluid therapy can help slow the progression of kidney damage.


Conclusion: Regular Vet Visits Are Essential

Cats are skilled at hiding signs of illness, so it's crucial for cat owners to stay vigilant and take their pets for regular veterinary check-ups. Early detection of common diseases can make a huge difference in the treatment outcome and your cat’s overall quality of life. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to ensure your cat stays healthy and happy.


Taking preventive measures, like vaccinations, proper diet, and regular vet visits, is the key to giving your feline companion the long and healthy life they deserve.

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