Every cat parent wants to know about common health problems in cats so that serious issues that may arise in the future can be prevented. Because cats naturally try to hide their illnesses, it becomes difficult to detect disease in them.
In this guide, we will discuss common illnesses in cats, such as loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. We will also cover preventive measures after understanding these diseases.
Most Common Cat Health Problems You Should Know About
Vomiting in Cats
Vomiting in cats is a sign of illness and often occurs due to hairballs, changes in diet, or an underlying hidden disease. During episodes of vomiting, symptoms such as weight loss and lethargy may appear.
If grooming is not done, the cat ingests dead hair while cleaning itself, which then causes vomiting. For this reason, add grass or plants such as wheatgrass to your cat’s routine.
Diarrhoea in Cats
Diarrhoea in cats often occurs due to infection, food allergies, or parasites. It commonly appears as loose stools or blood in the stool. In this condition, dehydration can occur, so it is wise to provide a mix of wet and dry food.
For prevention, maintain cleanliness, introduce new diets gradually, and provide fresh water. Avoid feeding too much at one time; instead, serve small portions 3 to 4 times a day.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a painful condition in cats. Stress during urination, bloody urine, and frequent use of the litter box often occur due to crystals or infection.
This problem is more commonly found in overweight or stressed cats. For prevention, increase water intake by using a water fountain, as it helps reduce urinary issues and lowers stress, supporting better overall health.
Fleas and External Parasites
Fleas or external parasites are serious health issues that cause itching, hair loss, and skin infections. This disease spreads from one animal to another when animals bite each other.
These parasites thrive in warm environments, and the risk of infection increases more rapidly in outdoor cats. To diagnose this infection in your cat, look for restlessness or excessive scratching.
Eye Problems in Cats
Eye problems in cats, such as conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers, appear in the form of redness or squinting. These are often caused by infections, injuries, or allergies. If ignored, they can lead to vision loss and many serious eye issues.
Watch your cat closely for early signs such as frequent eye rubbing, discharge, and redness of the eyes. In such cases, you should ensure proper vaccination and keep the environment clean and free from dust.
Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease spreads through mosquitoes. Its symptoms include coughing, vomiting, or sudden collapse. Unlike dogs, cats often do not show clear or obvious signs. For prevention, monthly veterinary preventive medication is essential, and extra care should be taken during warm seasons.
Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)
Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) is a very common disease in cats. It affects their immune system, which can lead to anaemia, cancer, or other infections. This disease is transmitted through saliva or close contact with other cats.
Infected cats gradually show signs of lethargy and loss of appetite. Therefore, to prevent it, new cats are tested, and vaccination is advised for other pets.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly viral disease posing significant cat health problems, with initial symptoms like behavioural changes progressing to aggression or paralysis.
It’s transmitted via bites from infected animals, making outdoor cat risks particularly high. Facts from health organisations show it’s almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but fully preventable with vaccinations.
Early detection is rare due to cats masking signs of sickness, so mandatory jabs every one to three years, depending on local laws, are essential to avoid this threat and ensure community safety.
Ringworm
Ringworm in cats causes circular bald patches and itchy skin. It spreads through spores in the environment and increases in risk in moist conditions. Its symptoms include scaling and crusting of the skin.
Treatment includes antifungal medications along with proper hygiene. For faster recovery, it is better to isolate the affected cat so that the disease does not spread to others.
Ringworm In Cats
Ringworm in cats is a contagious fungal skin infection that causes hair loss, scaly patches, and irritation. Early treatment helps prevent spreading and speeds recovery.
High-rise syndrome refers to injuries caused by falling from windows, balconies, or any height, and it is very common in urban cats. Cats have a righting reflex, but even then, after a fall from a height, problems such as broken bones, shock, or lung damage can occur.
After a fall, cats should be carefully observed—external injuries can often be noticed easily, but internal injuries require immediate consultation with a veterinarian.
Signs Your Cat May Be Unwell
If your cat is sick, she may eat less or lose her appetite. Lack of appetite can be a sign of illness.
Hiding in different places, such as under a table or chair or inside furniture, can also be a sign of stress or illness.
Sudden weight loss or weight gain is also considered a symptom of some illnesses.
Observe every sign carefully, and if you notice the same behaviour for 24 hours, consult a veterinarian.
Preventive Care for a Healthy Cat
Annual Wellness Exams
Annual veterinary check-ups help detect hidden diseases in cats and can prevent serious illnesses before they develop. During these check-ups, the vet carefully examines the cat’s blood circulation, behaviour, weight, and diet. If any changes are needed, the owner is properly guided on what to do.
Nutrition and Weight Management
To maintain good health and a proper weight, it is very important to take care of a cat’s diet. By using protein-rich food, weight loss or becoming overweight can be prevented.
For this purpose, food should be served at different times according to the cat’s weight—for example, adult cats can be fed three times a day, while kittens should be fed three to four times a day, because cats prefer eating in small portions rather than all at once.
In this way, their weight can be maintained. Overweight cats can face problems such as diabetes and joint issues.
Parasite Prevention
Parasite prevention guards against fleas, worms, and ticks, key to avoiding sick cat symptoms like itching or diarrhoea. Monthly treatments are vital, especially for outdoor cats, reducing transmission and supporting the immune system in cats.
Dental Care at Home
By using cat-safe toothpaste at home for dental care, you can prevent the build-up of plaque, which can later become a common cause of health problems in cats. Regular brushing helps protect against gum disease.
Final Thoughts on Cat Health
Understanding common health diseases in cats, paying attention to them, and knowing their treatments helps improve the quality of life of your pet. These diseases are common in cats, but by recognising their symptoms early, you can be prepared to deal with them calmly and without panic.
Remember, consulting resources like the RSPCA cat health adviceor the PDSA pet care guide provides extra support for managing long-term feline conditions and ensuring joyful companionship.
FAQs
What is the most common health issue in cats?
Digestive problems and dental disease are the most common cat health issues, often showing subtle signs like vomiting or appetite changes.
How to treat a sick cat?
Take your cat to the vet promptly, follow prescribed treatment, provide supportive care, and monitor behaviour, appetite, and litter box habits.
What diseases can cats carry?
Cats can carry viruses, parasites, bacterial, and fungal infections, including FIV, FeLV, ringworm, worms, and upper respiratory diseases.
Can cats spread diseases to humans?
Yes, cats can spread zoonotic diseases like ringworm and cat scratch disease, but proper hygiene and preventive care greatly reduce risks.
Alvina is a dedicated cat owner and feline care enthusiast with hands-on experience caring for multiple cats. She shares practical, research-backed guidance on cat training, nutrition, and behaviour through KittyCornerBlog, helping cat parents make informed, responsible care decisions.
