Our feline friends are certainly full of quirks, and can be quite opinionated. Fluffy may be very clear about letting you know when she wants food or attention, or is feeling annoyed. However, your cute pet may not be quite so forthcoming when she is sick. In fact, cats often instinctively mask any signs of illness. This can make it hard for people to tell that their pets aren’t feeling well. Below, an Aurora, CO vet lists some common signs of sickness in kitties.
Poor Grooming
Kitties take their beauty regimens very seriously. Fluffy will normally spend hours each day carefully grooming herself. If your cat doesn’t feel well, however, she may skip her usual routine. Before long, that pretty fur will start looking dull, matted, or greasy.
Hiding
While Fluffy does sometimes like to curl up for naps in out-of-the-way spots, she should emerge by suppertime. If your furball doesn’t want to leave her hiding spot, she could be sick.
Lack of Appetite
A lack of appetite is another red flag. Note: this is not to be confused with fussiness. Some cats are picky eaters. However, if your feline friend simply doesn’t like what you offered her, she should demand something different.
Vomiting
It isn’t unusual for cats to produce hairballs now and then. However, excessive or violent vomiting is definitely not normal. Contact your vet if Fluffy is throwing up.
Litterbox Issues
Most kitties are very good about doing their business in their own private bathrooms. If your cat has diarrhea, or starts avoiding her litterbox, she could be sick. And if you ever see Fluffy straining to relieve herself, contact your vet immediately: this can be a sign of a serious medical emergency.
Other Symptoms
These are just a few common signs of illness in cats. There are many more, including pale gums, trembling, lethargy, and increased or decreased thirst. You also want to watch for any changes in your kitty’s behavior or vocalizations. For instance, if your furball is usually cuddly, but starts acting grumpy and aloof, she could be sick. Cats often don’t show signs of illness until they’re quite ill, so don’t wait: call your vet as soon as you notice that something is wrong.
If your kitty has any of these symptoms, please contact us, your Aurora, CO animal hospital, immediately. We are here to help!
