We can often suspect that our cat is not in good health, and instead of taking it to the vet immediately, we wait a couple of days for the illness to pass or for those symptoms to disappear. symptoms that make us think you are sickHowever, this waiting can be dangerous.
There are certain symptoms that we cannot ignore, as they may indicate serious illnesses that require immediate medical attention. Below, we show you a complete guide on the main signs of illness in cats, how to identify them and what to do.
Main symptoms that indicate that a cat is sick
Cats are excellent at hiding the symptoms of their illnesses. In the wild, felines try to hide any signs of weakness to avoid attracting predators. This behavior is still present in our domestic cats, so it is essential to pay close attention to their behavior and physical appearance. Here are the main symptoms that indicate that your cat may be sick and needs veterinary attention.
- Red, watery eyes: One of the most obvious symptoms of illness. Red eyes in cats usually indicate infection or eye problems such as conjunctivitis, eyelid infections, or more serious diseases such as glaucomaAlso, if we observe ocular secretions (mucus), it is a clear sign that something is not right.
- Cough: Although coughing may be a normal reaction to expel foreign bodies, it can be a symptom of respiratory diseases such as bronchitis or pneumonia. If it persists, it is necessary to consult a veterinarian.
- Bloody diarrhea: The presence of Blood in the stool, especially if they are dark or black in color, can be indicative of serious problems such as intestinal ulcers or even cancer. This situation requires immediate medical attention.
- Repeated vomiting: While occasional vomiting may not mean anything serious, recurrent or repeated vomiting can be a sign of gastrointestinal problems, kidney failure, or poisoning. If vomiting occurs more than once a day or is accompanied by lethargy, a visit to the veterinarian is in order.
In addition to these main symptoms, there are other signs you should be aware of:
- Fever: It can usually be detected by touching the cat's nose (if it is very hot or dry). If you think your cat has a fever, your vet can confirm the diagnosis by taking the temperature.
- Lethargy and apathy: A cat that sleeps more than usual or seems inactive may be suffering from an illness. Sometimes excessive tiredness is caused by fever or pain.
- Loss of appetiteWhile cats have days when they might eat less, a continued loss of appetite is a clear sign that something is not right.
Red eyes and inflammation
A healthy cat's eyes should be bright and clear, free of discharge and redness. If you notice that your cat has red or swollen eyes, it may be suffering from an eye infection.In most cases, it is caused by bacterial, viral or foreign body infections. However, it can be a symptom of more serious diseases such as glaucoma, which requires immediate veterinary treatment.
Some of the most common symptoms Eye problems in cats include:
- Redness and/or inflammation of the eyes.
- Purulent or mucous secretions.
- Pain or tenderness around the eyes.
- Excessive blinking or squinting.
- Corneal opacity.
Glaucoma is a serious condition that affects the pressure inside the eye and, if not treated in time, can lead to blindness. If you notice persistent redness, it is crucial to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage.
Coughing in cats: When should we worry?
Coughing in cats is generally a defense mechanism that allows them to expel foreign bodies from the respiratory tract. However, When the cough is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, lack of appetite or lethargy, it could be associated with serious respiratory system problems. such as bronchitis, pneumonia or even feline asthma.
It is important to observe if the cough is accompanied by:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing.
- Extreme fatigue when performing normal activities.
If your cat is showing these signs along with a cough, it should not be ignored. Some respiratory illnesses can quickly worsen and put your pet's life at risk.
Bloody Diarrhea: An Alarming Sign
Occasional diarrhea is not always a sign of serious illness. However, When diarrhea is accompanied by blood, this symptom suggests a serious problem in the gastrointestinal tract. Bloody stools may appear dark or black in color, suggesting that the bleeding is coming from the intestine or stomach.
Some common causes of bloody diarrhea in cats they are:
- Intestinal parasites.
- Stomach ulcers.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases.
- Bacterial or viral infections.
When these symptoms appear, It is essential to go to the vet immediatelyAn accurate diagnosis through blood, stool or endoscopy tests will determine the cause and establish appropriate treatment.
Feeding and behavioral problems in sick cats
Another common indicator of illness in cats is a change in eating behavior and behavior. Cats are animals with very set routines. If you notice your cat experiencing significant changes in appetite or displaying strange behaviors, this may be a sign of illness.
- Loss of appetite:If your cat suddenly stops eating or has a noticeably decreased appetite, you should be concerned about a possible internal condition. Diseases such as hepatic lipidosis, known as fatty liver, can be fatal if a cat goes several days without eating.
- Behavior changes: A cat that seems more aggressive, irritable, or hiding more than usual may be experiencing pain or discomfort.
- Sleeping more than usual:Although cats sleep for many hours, a significant increase in the time they spend sleeping could be a sign that something is not right.
It is crucial to observe these changes and consult a veterinarian if these symptoms appear.
Vomiting and hairballs
It is common for cats to vomit from time to time, especially when they are trying to get rid of hairballs. However, Persistent vomiting or vomit that contains blood or bile may be a symptom of more serious problems. such as kidney disease, pancreatitis or ingestion of toxic substances.
It is important to differentiate between sporadic vomiting due to hairballs and worrying vomiting:
- Vomiting hairballs: Generally, this is nothing to worry about. It is a normal process in cats that groom themselves frequently.
- Repeated vomiting: If it occurs several times a day or frequently, it should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
It is always a good idea to collect samples in case the veterinarian wants to analyze the contents of the vomit to reach a more accurate diagnosis.
How to act in the face of these symptoms?
If any of these symptoms appear, the most important thing is to act quickly. You should not wait for the cat to get better on its own, as this rarely happens without some medical intervention.Serious problems can become significantly worse in just a few days.
Your priority should be to go to the vet to perform the necessary tests., such as blood tests, X-rays or ultrasounds depending on the signs the animal presents. In many cases, an early diagnosis can make the difference between a treatable disease and an irreversible condition.
Detecting early symptoms that indicate illness in cats can make the difference between a quick recovery and a more serious illness. It is always better to prevent or treat early.