Cats are among the most popular pets worldwide, and with good reason. They're easy to care for, easy to love, and they can be very loyal companions. But like any pet, cats can develop health problems., something none of us want.
Your cat's main distraction may be exploring its free area, which leads to it living with other kittens, thus exposing itself to various viruses and bacteria. This article will help discuss some of the common cat health problems and how to cure them.
Upper respiratory infections, also known as URIs or feline upper respiratory tract infections are a common health problem in cats. Various viruses and bacteria, including calicivirus, herpesvirus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica, causes them. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, eye, and nose discharge, and fever. URIs can be treated with antibiotics and supportive care, such as providing plenty of fluids and keeping the cat comfortable.
Dental problems in cats are fairly common. If issues are left untreated they can lead to further complications. One of the most common dental problems is periodontal disease. An infection of the tissues that support the teeth caused by the build up of plaque and tartar. This leads to inflammation and infection of the gums and underlying bone.
Other dental problems include tooth decay, abscesses in the mouth, and tooth fractures. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that produce acid, which eats away at the enamel of the teeth. Abscesses are caused by a bacterial infection that results in a pocket of pus forming. Tooth fractures can be caused by trauma to the teeth, possibly biting on a hard object.
There are several ways to prevent and treat dental problems in cats, regular teeth cleanings and check ups with a veterinarian are essential. It is also important to feed your cat a diet formulated for cats which will support dental health. Cat toys and treats will also help to keep their teeth clean. If your cat already has dental problems, your veterinarian may recommend a dental cleaning and possibly extraction of any damaged teeth. In severe cases your cat may need to be treated with antibiotics to clear the infection.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a general term which counts a number of conditions affecting the lower urinary tract in cats. These conditions can include bladder inflammation, bladder stones and urinary blockages.
Symptoms are linked to urination so could be blood in urine or frequent urination attempts. FLUTD medical conditions can be treated with medication or a special diet alongside lifestyle changes.
Gastrointestinal (GI) problems refer to any disorder or dysfunction that affects a cat's digestive system. The digestive system breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and eliminates waste. A problem in this process can lead to a range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, weight loss, and appetite changes.
There are many potential causes of this in cats, including eating something they shouldn't, infections, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis and cancer. In some cases, the cause may even be unknown.
To diagnose GI problems in cats, a veterinarian will perform a physical examination and could recommend blood tests, x-rays or ultrasounds. Treatment then depend on the specific causes of the problem. These could include medications, dietary changes, or surgery if really needed. It is important to address GI problems in cats as soon as possible as if left untreated these can lead onto more severe health issues.
FIV is a viral infection which can be transmitted through bites and another close contact with other infected cats. It works by weakening the immune system making cats more susceptible to other health problems. A vaccine can prevent FIV in advance but there is no cure once a cat has been infected. Cats with FIV may need to be isolated from other cats to prevent the spread of the virus.
FIP is a viral infection that affects the immune system and can lead to other serious health problems. It is transmitted through close contact with infected cats or already contaminated objects such as bedding or food bowls. FIP has no known cure, and treatment is supportive to help the cat feel more comfortable.
Intestinal parasites including worms and protozoa, can cause various health problems in cats. Symptom’s can include diarrhoea, vomiting, weight loss, and anemia. The parasites are transmitted through either contaminated food or water or contact with infected faeces. Regular deworming can help prevent intestinal parasites and treatment is by medications to kill the parasites.
Feline Infectious Anemia (FIA) is a condition that occurs when a cat's red blood cell count becomes dangerously low due to an infection or from other problems. Various factors, including parasites, viral infections, and cancer, can lead up to it. Symptoms will include lethargy, pale gums, and a difficulty when breathing. FIA Treatment may involve medication to help boost the red blood cell count and include supportive care to help the cat feel more comfortable.
Cancer is a common health problem in cats, with common types including lymphoma, mammary gland tumours, and skin tumours. It mainly affects older patients, and because medicine has managed to extend the life of pets, there are more and more cases of cancer in cats. One of the most common tumours is the breast, and, as in humans, early detection is essential. Various factors, including genetics, environmental exposures, and viral infections, can cause it. Treatment could include surgery.
Renal failure occurs when the kidneys cannot properly filter waste products from the blood.
Various factors, including chronic kidney disease, urinary tract blockages, and certain medications, can cause it. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy. Treatment may involve medications to manage symptoms and support kidney function, as well as a special diet to help reduce the workload on the kidneys.
Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It is most common in older cats and can be caused by a benign tumour on the thyroid gland. Symptoms include weight loss, increased appetite, increased thirst and urination, and hyperactivity. Treatment may involve medications to manage thyroid hormone levels and surgery to remove the tumour.
Panleukopenia, also known as feline parvovirus or feline distemper, is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening viral disease that affects cats. It is caused by a type of DNA virus highly resistant to environmental degradation (the feline parvovirus). The virus is commonly transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as vomit, faeces, and saliva, or contaminated objects, such as food bowls and litter boxes.
To diagnose panleukopenia, a veterinarian will normally perform a physical examination and complete a blood count or faecal examination to try to detect the virus. The initial treatment for panleukopenia is supportive care, this can include intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, medications to control vomiting and diarrhoea, plus nutrition support.
Allergies are a common medical problem in cats just as they are in humans. They occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance known as an allergen. Cats can develop allergies to various substances, including pollen, mould, dust mites, and certain foods.
The symptoms can vary but they include itchy skin, sneezing, watery eyes, breathing difficulties, swelling, and skin redness. Allergies can lead to skin infections and other health problems if left untreated.
There are several ways to treat allergies in cats. One option is to use antihistamines, which can help to reduce the symptoms of allergies by blocking the action of histamine. Corticosteroids, an anti-inflammatory medication, can also be used to reduce inflammation and swelling caused by allergies.
Arthritis is a common joint in cats. It is caused from an inflammation and degeneration of the joint tissue which leads to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. Several types of arthritis can affect cats, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and infectious arthritis.
The cause of arthritis can be due to genetics, age, injury, or obesity. As cats age, their joints may become less flexible and more prone to wear and tear, leading to the development of arthritis. Injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can also contribute to arthritis. Obesity heavily increases the risk of arthritis in cats as excess weight strains the joints when moving.
Treatment may include medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids, physical therapy, and weight management. Surgery is the last resort to repair or replace damaged joints.
By understanding some of the most common medical conditions you can help your cats live happier, healthier lives. Remember if you are ever in doubt your veterinarian is a great source of information and always there to help.
