Signs Your Cat Is Ill

Cats are known for being mysterious and, well, confusing. Most of the time, Fluffy’s quirks are cute. However, they can also be dangerous. For instance, cats have a tendency to be very secretive when they aren’t feeling well. This can make it hard for you to tell if your feline buddy is sick. You may not notice anything is even wrong until Fluffy is extremely ill! An Apple Valley, MN vet lists some warning signs to look for below. 

Changes In Appetite/Thirst

Kitties can be finicky, but there’s a difference between being picky about food and losing all interest in it. It’s a definite red flag if Fluffy isn’t eating. Increases in your furry buddy’s thirst or appetite can also be a sign of something wrong. 

Weight Gain Or Loss

Illnesses can cause noticeable changes in Fluffy’s weight. If your feline pal is gaining or losing, and you aren’t sure why, she could be ill. 

Unkempt Fur 

Usually cats are pretty good about keeping themselves clean. However, just like people, Fluffy doesn’t always feel up to her usual beauty routines when she’s sick. This can quickly take a toll on her coat. 

Unusual Vocalizations/Behavior

Our feline friends all have their own distinct vocal styles. Fluffy may communicate with you by chirping, singing, squeaking, yelling, or babbling. If she’s been meowing more, less, or even just differently than usual, she may be sick.

Vomiting 

It’s not unusual for kitties to produce the occasional hairball. However, if Fluffy is throwing up frequently, violently, dry heaving, or throwing up foam or blood, something is going on. 

Changes In Waste 

Pay attention to what you find in Fluffy’s litterbox. Changes in the color, texture, smell, or amount of her urates and feces are all warning signs. Diarrhea, for instance, is a definite red flag, as is straining to go.

Behavioral Changes

We said uncharacteristic here, rather than unusual, because if people came in every time their cats did something odd, our waiting room would literally always be overflowing with healthy but quirky kitties. You want to look for things that are not the norm for your furry little friend, such as withdrawal, grumpiness, or aggression in a normally-friendly cat.

If you notice any of these symptoms, or any other unusual behavior in your cat, contact us,  your Apple Valley, MN animal clinic, today. We’re here to help!