Behaviors That Could Indicate Your Cat is Ill

While your cat may not have the means to communicate with you through language, they have ways of letting you know what they want and need through their behavior. This behavior can also let you know when they are injured or ill. To keep your cat healthy, check out the behaviors below that your cat may be doing to tell you it’s time for a visit with Dr. Stewart or Dr. Hammond.

A DECREASE IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

If your feline is usually active and jumps a lot, but you find them limiting their mobility or reducing their overall physical activity, it may be a sign that your cat is suffering from joint problems or other injuries.

CHANGES TO THEIR GROOMING ROUTINE

If your cat stops grooming or begins to allow their coat to become unkempt, they may be suffering from thyroid issues or other illness. Increased grooming and hair loss can always be cause for concern and the result of some skin problems, such as fleas, allergies, and infections.

AN INCREASED AMOUNT OF VOMITING OR HAIRBALLS

An increased number of hairballs can be a sign of possible hair loss or other conditions. If you notice that your cats hairballs are not completely fur, they may be vomiting with hair mixed into it. Increased vomiting can be caused by ailments, such as heart worms.

CHANGE IN EATING HABITS

Both increases and decreases in your pets normal eating and drinking can be signs of ill health. Changes in food habits can be caused by diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, thyroid complications, dental problems, kidney issues, and even cancer. While a change in eating could simply be a dislike for new food, it is still important to check with Guildcrest Cat Hospital.

BATHROOM PROBLEMS

Changes in your cat’s waste can be an indicator of possible underlying conditions. If your cat has diarrhea, is going to the bathroom more frequently, or if you notice a change in the color of your pet’s waste a trip to the vet may be in order. Changes in urination or straining can be a sign of kidney complication. Urinary tract infections and frequent or bloody stool can be a sign of intestinal problems.

SUDDEN CHANGES IN THEIR TYPICAL BEHAVIOR

You should always take note of any sudden change in your cat’s behavior even if you see it as a positive change, such as an older cat becoming more active. While some changes can be the result of better diet and exercise, cat’s behaviors are pretty consistent so any change should be investigated. Changes in activity level, becoming fearful or shy, seeming overly aggressive, or not participating in affection they normally would could all be ways they are telling you that something is off. As their owner, you know your cat best. If something seems off, even if it is their meow or simply becoming aloof, notify us of these changes in behavior as they can be signs of illness.

If your cat is exhibiting some of the behaviors above or is doing anything out of the ordinary, a quick checkup at the vet can put your mind at ease. Contact us today to get your feline friend on the road to recovery.