Cats are popular pets, loved for their independent yet affectionate nature. Despite their hardy demeanor and self-sufficiency, they are susceptible to various health issues, some of which are unexpected.
You can avoid the unexpected nature of these illnesses by learning more about what your cat may come across. As such, this article explores those health issues, shedding light on their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Periodontal Disease
Despite the unexpected nature, dental diseases are quite common among cats. Periodontal disease is the most prevalent dental issue in cats due to plaque buildup.
Symptoms of periodontal disease can include bad breath, weight loss, drooling, and loss of appetite. Regular dental cleanups and a good quality, dental-friendly diet is necessary to prevent these issues.
Obesity
Obesity in cats is the direct result of being overfed or lacking exercise. That is why most food packets come with a serving suggestion. While this illness is one you will recognize by sight, it is still a silent and serious health issue in cats.
It can also lead to a host of other, more common, health problems. These include:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
Preventive measures include maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring your cat gets plenty of exercise.
Food Intolerance
Food intolerance in cats can manifest in various symptoms that often revolve around gastrointestinal issues. As such, chronic diarrhea and vomiting are two of the most common signs that your cat may have a food intolerance. These episodes might happen shortly after mealtimes and could involve partially digested or undigested food.
Other signs include weight loss due to nutrient malabsorption, lethargy, or decreased activity levels due to feeling unwell, but you can learn more about these issues at US Pet Food Intolerance. In some cases, cats may exhibit skin problems like rashes, itching, redness, and inflammation if they’re intolerant to certain foods. This is because some food intolerances can trigger an immune response, leading to skin manifestations.
Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid gland causes hyperthyroidism and is quite common in humans. Sadly, the illness is largely overlooked in cats.
The symptoms of this unusual condition in cats can include weight loss despite an increased appetite, hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased thirst. Radioactive iodine therapy, medication, or surgery are possible treatment options.
Kidney Disease
Another illness that is mainly associated with humans, kidney disease is one of the most unexpected health issues found in cats. Though it is primarily a disease of older cats, younger cats can also be affected. Make sure you look for the appropriate symptoms, as kidney diseases are much more manageable if diagnosed early.
The symptoms, such as weight loss, reduced appetite, increased thirst, and frequent urination, are often mistaken for aging. Regular veterinary checkups are essential for early detection, and treatments involve dietary changes and medication to manage symptoms.
Conclusion
Even though cats are adept at hiding signs of illness due to their independent nature, understanding and detecting these unexpected health issues can improve their quality of life. Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise can go a long way toward preventing these issues and ensuring a long, healthy life for your feline friend.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.