We love our cats and want nothing more than to keep them happy and healthy. Knowing what can happen to our cats will help us keep them safe and is important as a pet parent. Below we’ve provided a list of the most common illnesses cats experience.
#1 – Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Also known as FLUTD, this disease actually covers a variety of issues and isn’t just one single ailment. Bladder stones, urethral blockages and urinary tract infections are all encompassed in FLUTD, and your cat may experience one or more of these issues during his or her lifetime. Symptoms include straining to urinate, frequent urination, blood in the urine and urinating outside of the litterbox.
#2 – Upper Respiratory Infections
Just like people, cats get upper respiratory infections that cause runny noses, congestion and difficulty breathing. If you notice your cat is coughing, sneezing, panting and has nasal discharge, it’s important to take him to the veterinarian. These infections can start out as a minor nuisance, but can quickly develop into a more dangerous problem.
#3 – Cancer
It seems that cancer is a common problem for all living things lately and unfortunately our cats are not immune. Lymphosarcoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, is the most common type of cancer in cats. Lymphosarcoma is associated with FeLV, or feline leukemia virus, and typically shows up in the chest or abdomen. Symptoms include swelling, sores, lethargy, weight loss and difficulty breathing.
#4 – Kidney Disease
Another common ailment in our beloved felines is kidney disease. While age is the most common factor in the development of kidney disease, there are other factors such as toxins, kidney stones, infections and high blood pressure. Weight loss, loss of appetite and lethargy are all signs of kidney disease. Treatment can keep the disease at bay; however, some cats may need transplant.
#5 – Dental Disease
Our cats teeth are important, yet we often neglect to take care of them. It might seem strange brushing your cat’s teeth and it’s likely why so many of our feline friends suffer from dental disease. Excessive drooling, loss of appetite, red and swollen gums, loose teeth and ulcers on the mouth and tongue are all signs that something is wrong with your cat’s dental health. It’s important to take your cat to the veterinarian if you think they may be struggling with dental disease.