Cats have a way of hiding illness and pain such that when they are sick, you might not notice until the condition gets worse. Signs of illness in cats can be subtle, hence, there is a need to always observe your cat closely and communicate any unusual behavior/sign with your veterinarian.
Common signs of illness in cats
- Sudden mood change (withdrawal and hiding).
- Over-grooming or neglecting to groom. (Messy, matted, rough hair coat)
- Diarrhoea or Vomiting.
- Inability to urinate or pass out stool.
- Breathing abnormalities like rapid breathing, shallow breathing, or panting.
- Discharges from the eyes, nose, or ears.
- Pale or yellow Gum, eyes, or skin.
- Dehydration.
- Sudden changes in drinking, appetite or eating habits.
- Noticeable weight gain or loss.
- Wounds/Injuries, swelling, or limping.
- Bad breath.
How to know if your cat is dehydrated
Cats are easily prone to dehydration and if not corrected can be fatal. Some of the above signs like inappetence, diarrhoea, and vomiting can cause dehydration. To test for your cat’s hydration level, pull the skin around the shoulder blade and drop it, delay in returning to its position suggests dehydration and you should seek immediate veterinary care.
