Top 4 Common Cat Diseases: Signs, Symptoms, and Care
As a cat owner, learning how to recognize common cat diseases is essential to keeping your feline happy and healthy. Here are some common ailments your cat could suffer from, and information about what type of care is best.
Upper Respiratory Infections
Upper respiratory infections are much like a human cold. Your cat may have a runny nose and watery, red eyes, a fever, decreased appetite and sneezing. Unlike colds, these infections are dangerous and can kill your cat. They are also highly contagious, so keep your cat away from ill cats. If you notice your cat has any symptoms that seem like a cold, call your vet so you can seek treatment immediately. Keeping your cat vaccinated can also help protect against this problem.
Feline Leukemia Virus
The Feline Leukemia Virus is a retrovirus that suppresses a cat’s immune system, making your pet more susceptible to other diseases and cancer. The virus is contagious, so keep your cat away from unknown animals, and have any new cats you intend to adopt tested for the disease before bringing them into your home.
Urinary Tract Infections
If you notice your cat avoiding the litter box or experiencing discolored urine, visit the vet as soon as possible. This could indicate a urinary tract infection or urinary tract stone. If the urinary tract becomes blocked, your cat could die
Hyperthyroidism
Cats who are over the age of 8 often succumb to hyperthyroidism, which can cause weigh loss, stomach discomfort, an increased appetite and increased desire for water. This can be treated medically or through the surgical removal of the thyroid.
These are just a few of the common diseases that can affect cats. If you notice your cat isn’t acting like her normal self, talk to your veterinarian. Often doing a little bit now can keep a simple illness from becoming something dangerous or deadly.
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