Even the most seasoned cat owners can overlook some common health issues cats might face. Our feline friends are experts at masking pain, so it’s essential to stay vigilant about their health. Below, we’ve highlighted surprising yet prevalent cat health issues, providing insight to help keep your cat feeling their best and spotting signs early.
Dental Disease
Many cat owners don’t realize how common dental disease is in cats. Cats can suffer from periodontal disease, plaque buildup, and even painful resorptive lesions affecting teeth and gums. Since it’s easy to miss these signs until the disease has progressed, regular vet checkups and a focus on dental hygiene, like brushing or using dental treats, can go a long way in preventing these painful conditions.
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is one of cats’ most frequently diagnosed chronic illnesses, especially as they age. While symptoms like increased thirst, weight loss, and frequent urination might seem minor, they can indicate kidney issues. Early detection is key, as it helps slow disease progression and manage symptoms. Keep Monitoring cat’s water intake and behavior for the earliest signs.
Hyperthyroidism
Often diagnosed in older cats, hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland overproduces thyroid hormones. Cats with this condition may show increased appetite, weight loss, or hyperactivity. This condition is manageable with medication or even dietary changes, but it’s essential to catch it early. Monitoring your cat’s weight and energy levels can help catch hyperthyroidism before it escalates.
Urinary Tract Issues
Unfortunately, urinary tract infections, blockages, and bladder stones are common in cats. Symptoms can include straining to urinate, blood in urine, or urinating outside the litter box. If left untreated, these issues can be life-threatening, especially in male cats, which are more prone to blockages. A high-quality diet and monitoring litter box behavior can help prevent urinary problems and make symptoms easier to spot.
Obesity
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Obesity is often overlooked in cats, but it can have serious health consequences, from diabetes to joint issues. Since even a little excess weight can impact a cat’s health, providing a balanced diet and engaging in regular playtime is essential to keep your cat active. Obesity can sneak up slowly, so regular vet checkups can help keep your cat in optimal shape.
Arthritis
Many people assume arthritis only affects dogs, but it’s surprisingly common in cats, especially seniors. Signs of arthritis can be subtle, like decreased mobility, reluctance to jump, or stiffness. These symptoms are often mistaken for natural aging, but arthritis pain can be managed with medications, supplements, and even physical therapy. Observing changes in your cat’s movement can help catch this early.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Cats can develop chronic gastrointestinal issues, including IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) and pancreatitis, which may present as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. These symptoms often come and go, making it easy to brush them off. However, ongoing GI problems should be checked by a vet to prevent dehydration and nutritional deficiencies. Diet adjustments and medications can often help manage these conditions.
Diabetes
Feline diabetes is a serious health condition that often goes undiagnosed until it’s advanced. Symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss could be red flags. Certain factors, like obesity and diet, can increase your cat’s risk. If diabetes is detected early, it can be managed effectively with dietary changes and, in some cases, insulin.
Heart Disease
Cat heart disease can be difficult to detect, as symptoms are often subtle. Common signs include difficulty breathing, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Cats are prone to congenital and acquired heart conditions, which may worsen with age. Routine vet visits that include cardiac checks can help catch any problems before they escalate, improving your cat’s quality of life.