Cats are very good at
hiding signs of illness. They are prey animals as well as predators in the wild
and have evolved the ability to hide disease, even when it is serious. This can
make identification of illness extremely challenging for the cat owner. It is
very important to consult your veterinarian if your cat shows any of these
subtle signs.
1.
Inappropriate elimination
A cat that
urinates or defecates outside of the litter box is telling you that something
is wrong. Urination outside of the box can indicate multiple issues, including
diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, lower urinary tract disease (infection, bladder
stones, and stress related bladder inflammation), hyperthyroidism, or cancer.
Defecation outside of the box can indicate problems with the gastrointestinal
tract such as inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, constipation, or cancer. Getting into and out of the box may also
become painful for a cat with arthritis or musculoskeletal issues.
2.
Changes in vocalization
The change
in the pitch and sound of a cat’s meow may indicate that there is a problem in
the area of the larynx or that a systemic illness is occurring. Cats that
vocalize or howl more frequently than usual may be suffering from hypertension
or hyperthyroidism. Stress or pain can
also increase vocalization in cats.
3.
Bad Breath
Admittedly,
cats may not always have the freshest breath, but a sudden change in odor may
indicate significant dental disease, oral cancer, or even an underlying
systemic illness, such as kidney disease.
4.
Changes in Activity
A decrease
in activity or change in daily routine can be a general indicator of illness.
5.
Changes in food or water consumption
Decreased or
increased water and/or food consumption may be an indicator of various
illnesses. Increased water consumption
may be a result of kidney disease or diabetes mellitus. Increased food consumption may indicate
gastrointestinal disease or hyperthyroidism.
Decreased food and water consumption may occur secondary to many
illnesses, all of which are serious.
6.
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Sudden
unexplained weight loss may be caused by hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal
disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, or a whole host of illnesses. Weight gain
and obesity can puts cats at risk for diabetes mellitus and arthritis issues.
7.
Changes in Social Interactions
Cats are
typically social and enjoy interacting with people and other pets. Changes in interactions with others in the
household may indicate pain, stress, or illness.
8.
Signs of stress
Stressed
cats may hide more, eat less food, interact less with others in the household,
inappropriately urinate of defecate, and appear outwardly agitated. Ruling out physical ailments that could
result in stress is very important.
9.
Changes in grooming behavior
A decrease
in typical grooming behaviors is a sign of some sort of underlying health
issue. It may indicate pain, anxiety, decreased energy or be secondary to
obesity. Over grooming can indicate a skin issue or psychological disorder.
10. Changes
in sleeping habits
Cats
normally sleep during a large portion of the day. When they seem to be sleeping
more than normal, it could be a sign of an underlying disease process. If they are sleeping much less than usual, it
may indicate hyperthyroidism, pain, or stressors within the household.
All of the
above subtle signs of illness in felines may not be easy to pick up, especially
if the changes are gradual. Veterinary wellness exams once to twice yearly are
especially important for this reason. They can prevent many diseases and
illnesses from reaching an advanced stage and keep our kitties happy and
healthy.
