The Cat Lover's Guide to Common Diseases

"Is there a mouse in there?"

I talk a good bit about dogs, but I love cats, too. I miss our Molly awfully...and I dream of adopting another cat, soon!

This post about common cat diseases struck me as important in the whole 'human-animal bond' discussion. After all, caring properly for our pets is job #2, isn't it? Job #1, of course, is loving them unconditionally. 

If you like the post, please share on social. It's worth a share, in my opinion. (I wouldn't be sharing it, otherwsie.)

The Cat Lover's Guide To Common Diseases

It's very upsetting when a pet is sick. The most disturbing thing is not knowing what exactly is wrong, not knowing how to help your furry little friend who depends on you. Cats are more subtle about expressing themselves than dogs, so you'll have to pay very close attention.

How Your Cat Can Tell You What's Wrong

Your cat may not be able to tell you if she is not feeling well, but an observant pet owner can tell if something's wrong. For starters, a cat's first instinct on being ill or injured is to find someplace quiet and secluded to hide and attempt to sleep it off. Know your cat and you will know what will be unusual for that particular pet. If a usually cuddly cat starts to avoid others or a usually independent cat becomes clingy, something is wrong. Heightened aggressiveness or lethargy are both extremes that may signal an underlying disease. A common symptom to the worst cat illnesses is either excessive drinking or not drinking. Pay close attention to changes in appetite and litter box habits. Cats generally love grooming themselves so if your kitty is looking disheveled, there's something wrong. If your cat is paying excessive attention to one area while grooming, it may be because they have pain in that area.

Does Your Cat Need Medical Care?

If your cat looks different, he may be ill. Pay attention to the coloring of the eyes and mouth. Changes in silhouette or dramatic shifts in weight are signs of trouble. Discharge should be monitored, color and viscosity noted. Even holding a tail or head in an atypical manner could mean kitty isn't well.

The diseases listed here are the most common ailments. You will see a list of symptoms, recommended treatment and how much the vet bill may be. Report any symptoms or odd behavior to your veterinarian. If possible, bring the vet a fecal sample. (Guard yourself from infection as well, of course.) Keep your kitty as comfortable as possible by bundling in a blanket if they'll allow it. If you have more than one cat, a healthy cat may try to comfort their sick friend by lying near them. Allow this only if the ailment is not contagious. Remember the wise words of Benjamin Franklin: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Get your cat vaccinated, maintain a healthy diet and keep them from ingesting poisons. 

Mary Nielsen

Comments

[Ellen Pilch]

Excellent infographic.