Cats are famous for being low maintenance pets. But even our feline friends need regular support and love from us. Just like any other pet, cats are also vulnerable to a variety of diseases. Being a cat parent, it is essential for us to know about these ailments as they are known to be ‘Silent Killers.’
1. Diabetes
Also known as ‘Diabetes Mellitus,’ it is mostly found in cats who are overweight and obese. It is a life threatening disease and the treatment is on the higher end. Intensive care and support is required along with a 360° change in lifestyle.
Symptoms
- Overweight body or sudden weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Weakness and lethargy
- Larger clumps in the litter box
- Excessive drinking of water and urination
- Vomiting
- Bad breath
- Walking abnormally
2. Chronic Kidney Disease
Also known as “Chronic Kidney Injury” or “Chronic Renal Failure” is one of the leading silent killers amongst cats. It simply means that 75% of their kidneys have stopped functioning. Special care and attention is required in terms of food, lifestyle and medication.
Symptoms
- Excessive drinking and urinating
- Larger clumps in the litter box
- Weight loss and lethargy
- Bad breath (due to toxin accumulation in the body)
- Hiding (they will start isolating by hiding themselves)
3. Cancer
Gastrointestinal cancer or simply said, stomach cancer is a recurring type in cats. Just like diabetes, cancer is also equally life threatening. To avoid cancer, cat parents have to follow one mantra i.e. early detection.
Symptoms
- Any lump that changes shape or size
- Any sore that does not heal
- Change in bowel or bladder habits
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Difficulty urinating or defecating
- Unexplained bleeding or discharge from the body
- Loss of appetite
- Chronic weight loss
4. Hyperthyroidism
As the name itself suggests, it is a disease related to the thyroid gland. Thyroid is an endocrine gland which produces hormones known as ‘Thyroid Hormones.’ When the glands start secreting these hormones in excess, it leads to Hyperthyroidism. Proper consultation coupled with medication and diet will yield a positive result.
Symptoms
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Weight loss
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Hypertension
5. FLUTD
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease is another most common ailment in cats. It is a broad term for a variety of conditions associated with their urinary tract.
Symptoms
- Pain while passing urine
- Urinary incontinence
- Straining to urinate
- Dribbling of the urine
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent licking of the genitals
- Strong urine odor
- Less water intake
- Consumption of wrong food items
- Diabetes Mellitus
These are the major diseases which can be the cause of death of your loved feline. Therefore, it is crucial for cat parents to keep a close eye on the physical activities of their cats. Since most of the symptoms are the same, it might cause confusion. It is better to let your vet do the diagnosis of the problem. Do visit our website www.wiggles.in or call us on +91 8431620000 for any kind of consultation regarding your pets!
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