illness warning signs

Certain situations may be considered urgent for your cat. You should NOT wait for an appointment at your vet when your cat is experiencing an emergency. Keep information about after-hours veterinarians handy in case you need to rush to one. If you see the signs of an emergency, do not delay. Go to the closest open veterinarian immediately. The following situations are considered urgent:

• Trauma (examples include falling from a height or being hit by a car)
• Difficulty breathing
• Gums that are blue, white, or very pale
• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse, unconsciousness, or unresponsiveness
• Seizure
• Dizziness, imbalance, or circling
• Inability to walk
• Moderate to profuse bleeding
• Exposure to a poisonous substance
• Severe pain (showing signs like crying out loudly and excessively or acting aggressive when touched)
• Body temperature over 104 or under 99 (normal is usually 100.5-102.5)

If you notice anything else your cat does that worries you, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You can call your vet or the emergency vet if you need help deciding if something is an emergency. 

Could your cat be sick? It may be difficult to know if subtle changes in your cat indicate a health problem. Cats are experts at hiding illness. In the wild, this instinct can protect them from predators or other cats that might be a threat. Today’s house cat has the same tendency to avoid vulnerability, even if the only potential threat is a housemate. Even cats in single-pet homes tend to have the instinct to self-protect.

There is another reason why cats and many other animals are less likely to show pain or illness; They simply do not have an emotional relationship with their discomfort. Animals tend to accept the pain or illness as the new normal and move on. It may not be until they are extremely ill that their sickness becomes obvious to humans. Thus, you as their caregiver must be very keen at detecting subtle changes early.

By the time you actually notice something is wrong with your cat, it might have been going on for a longer amount of time than you think. Note subtle changes in behavior and watch for more. Observe your cat’s demeanor and body language. Does something seem off? Learn what is normal for cats and know what is normal for your cat. Never ignore obvious signs of illness. When in doubt, contact your vet for advice. 

Vomiting

Vomiting is not normal in cats. Some people think it’s ok for a cat to vomit every few days, but it’s not. Things like rare vomiting or the occasional hairball are not concerns. However, anything more than this warrants a trip to the veterinarian.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea may indicate dietary indiscretion, intestinal parasites, and a variety of other problems. Left untreated, diarrhea can lead to dehydration and further intestinal inflammation. It’s also very uncomfortable for your cat. Schedule a vet appointment and, if possible, bring a stool sample.

Loss of Appetite

This can be normal for cats but it still should not be ignored. If your cat skips the occasional meal but otherwise eats normally, watch closely for trends. If your cat stops eating entirely or is only eating tiny amounts, you need to get your veterinarian involved. Lack of eating for even a couple of days can lead to a serious problem called fatty liver or hepatic lipidosis. 

Increased Appetite

Increased appetite may also be a concern, especially if it comes on suddenly in an older cat. Hypothyroidism may be the explanation, but your vet will need to run tests to be sure. Increased appetite should not be ignored, even in younger cats. If nothing else, it can lead to overeating and obesity.

Weight Changes

Weight changes in cats are always concerning, whether it’s gain or loss. Either might be a sign of an underlying health problem. Weight loss is more urgent in the short term whereas weight gain is usually more harmful over time. If you are not sure about your cat’s weight, make a vet appointment for a check-up or at least a weight check.

Lethargy

Lethargy is a sign of a problem, even if it’s subtle. Contact your vet if your cat seems to be lying around a lot, sleeping more than usual, or just generally has a low energy level. There is probably something going on with your cat’s health.

Increased Thirst

It can mean many things in cats. Most often it means there is a problem like kidney disease or diabetes mellitus. Many owners never even see their cats drink water. So, if you start noticing your cat near the water dish more than before, it means something. 

Changes in Urination

These are always important to address. They often indicate a urinary tract issue or kidney problem. If you notice a change in frequency or quantity of urine, inappropriate urination, or blood in the urine, schedule a vet appointment. If your cat is straining to urinate and nothing is coming out, this might be an emergency, particularly in male cats. The Facts of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease. Bring your cat to a vet immediately. 

Changes in Breathing

Changes in breathing like wheezing, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, and raspy breathing should never be ignored. If your cat is not breathing normally, it may be best to go to an emergency clinic. If the signs are very mild, see your regular veterinarian as soon as possible.

****WARNING****

If your cat is not breathing normally, it may be best to go to an emergency clinic. If the signs are very mild, see your regular veterinarian as soon as possible. 

Discharge from Eyes or Nose

Discharge from eyes or nose indicates a possible upper respiratory infection. This can make your cat feel ill and stop eating. It may be contagious to other cats in your home. Your vet may recommend medications to help your cat recover faster.

Ear Debris or Discharge

Ear debris or discharge might mean your cat has an ear infection or even parasites like ear mites. Waiting to address this may cause the eardrum to become affected. Plus, it is very uncomfortable for your cat.

Skin Irritation or Hair Loss

Skin irritation or hair loss may be a sign of allergies, external parasites, or another skin condition. It’s also likely painful or itchy. Don’t let your cat suffer needlessly. Your vet may be able to offer treatment options.

Increased Vocalization

Increased vocalization may mean your cat is sick, in pain, stressed, or just bored. It’s important to rule out a health issue first before you explore the behavioral side of this issue.

Overgrooming

Overgrooming may be behavioral, but it could also mean your cat has a skin issue or is in pain. If you notice overgrooming, start with a vet visit to try to get to the root of the problem.

Personality Changes

Personality changes may be normal when they happen over time, especially as your cat ages. However, if your normally friendly cat is showing aggression, or your happy, confident cat is suddenly acting afraid, there is a need to further explore with your vet. If your cat seems confused or disoriented, then its an even more urgent situation.

Limping and Trouble Jumping

Limping and trouble jumping up are signs of an injury or a condition like arthritis. Don’t assume your cat is not in pain because he is eating and acting normal otherwise. See your vet so the injury or condition can be treated appropriately.

Swelling

Swelling in any area of the body should not be ignored. It may be a wound that has turned into an abscess. It could even be a tumor. Watch the swollen area closely. If it is painful, hot to the touch, or does not get better in a day or two, see your vet.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is a sign of dental problems. Mild halitosis may not be urgent, but it means your cat’s teeth should be checked soon. Severe bad breath should be addressed sooner. Also, watch for excessive drooling and bleeding from the mouth. If your cat has an oral infection, it exposes the whole body to the bacteria in the mouth. This could lead to problems with the heart and other organs.

The best way to keep your cat healthy and to reduce the risk of serious illness is preventative care (i.e., annual exams, healthy diet, and a happy, stress-free home).

Source: The Spruce Pets

18 Signs That Your Cat is Sick (updated 6/6/23)

By Jenna Stregowski, RVT