Cats, like any other animal, suffer from different health problems like parasitic infestations, digestive problems, dental issues, obesity, etc. Specific illnesses are also associated commonly with particular breeds- like e.g. pure breeds have more chance of suffering from coat disorders, while crossbred cats are more susceptible to hyperthyroidism and abscesses.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)
FELINE LOWER URINARY TRACT DISEASES (FLUTD) – wikimedia.org
One of the most common problems cats face is the feline lower urinary tract disease, which is actually a group of feline diseases with multiple causes. Female and male cats, both can get FLUTD, but it is most likely to happen to cats who are obese or unfit or who have been fed mostly dry food. Studies indicate multiple causes for FLUTD such as stress, multi-cat household, and sudden changes in lifestyle. Treatment depends on the type of cat you have as a pet. Symptoms of FLUTD include- bloody urine, straining to urinate, crying while urinating, urinating in unusual places, licking around the urinary area, lack of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, depression. If your cat cannot urinate it is a sign of an emergency, call your vet immediately in such cases. While increasing your cat’s water intake, increase in wet food and usage of the litter box can do good, some symptoms cannot be treated at home.
Fleas infestation
Fleas are a very common cat health problem. These parasites feed on your pet’s blood. Flea symptoms include hair loss, constant scratching, hot spots, bald patches (where the cat has licked excessively), etc. You may also be able to see fleas or flea eggs or flea excretions on your pet’s fur.
Treatment for fur fleas includes applying flea control products designed to kill fleas and prevent egg development. Make sure that you strictly use flea-control products that are intended for cats- not for dogs- this is because cats are sensitive to insecticides- using wrong products on cats can have fatal consequences. Treatments can include oral medication, powders, topical medication, and foams.
Dental Disease
Gum disease or periodontal issues in cats is a common problem and happens when plaque (a bacteria) grows on the surface of the teeth. If the plaque is not removed from the cat’s teeth- then it will turn to tartar- a hard yellow or brown deposit on the teeth. Tartar is very difficult to remove from the teeth and it can get under the cat’s gum and cause serious infection. If this infection gets out of control it can cause your cat to lose teeth. To prevent gum disease make sure to give your cat a mix of dry and canned food.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Eating foodstuffs that don’t agree with them or eating to quickly can cause vomiting and diarrhea. If your cat is constantly suffering, though, it can be a sign of a larger problem. An isolated episode is not a cause for concern, if it lasts more than a day or is accompanied by bloody/black stool then you must take your cat to a vet immediately. Home treatment can include an increase in fluids to prevent dehydration, not feeding your cat for 12-14 hours, followed up with bland food like cooked rice, boiled potatoes, boneless chicken, etc. Your vet may recommend you anti-vomiting medicines.
Eye Problems
Eye problems are a common health problem for cats. This includes corneal ulcer, conjunctivitis, cataracts, viruses, glaucoma, inflammation, and retinal diseases. A few symptoms include watery-eyes, cloudiness, red/white eyelid linings, excessive gunk on the corners of the eye, tear-stained fur, squinting, pawing at eye (implies eye irritation), or a visible third eyelid.
There’s not much you can do to treat an eye problem at home. You should take your cat to the vet. Remember- eye problems should be considered an emergency so make an appointment immediately.
Conclusion
Annual vet checks and keeping good habits in your pets is a good way to ward off health issues- but sometimes it can be inevitable and treatment is required. You can seek the best cat medicine or cat food online on reliable e-commerce pet stores like Animeal to give your cat the best life it can have.
