This is a collaborative post
Pet ownership isn’t just a pleasure: it’s also a responsibility. You need to make sure you know how to care for your cat, and to recognise the danger signs. If your cat keeps throwing up, is that a serious problem to take to the vet, or one you can rely on solving itself?
Today we’re taking a look at some of the most common health problems your cat can encounter, and what they look like.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Many cat health problems first show up digestion issues. Vomiting and diarrhea can be how cats clear their bodies of toxins, or things that they’ve eaten and regretted. It’s not pleasant for you to clear up, but in most cases it’s not something you need to worry about.
If it goes on for longer, your cat does run the risk of dehydration and extreme hunger, as they can’t hold down food. You might want to provide them with a blander (but nourishing) diet of cooked chicken and rice to help settle their stomach.
If you’re having worries about your cat’s ability to keep food down, then it’s well worth making an appointment at the vet.
Parasites
One of the most common pet parasites are fleas. While they can easily be controlled with medication, powders or other treatments the results of an out of control infestation are so unpleasant for your cat (and for you!), it’s worth being vigilant. A flea infestation can cause irritated skin and scratching which can escalate to hair loss, and the fleas can even cause aneamia!
Less common but even more serious is a tapeworm infestation. These parasites live in your cat’s intestine, and can grow to up to two feet long! Some tapeworm infestations cause diarrhea and weight loss, as they steal nutrients from your cat’s meals, but others can last for months or years and show no signs. It is sometimes possible to find worms in your cat’s faeces or around their anus, so if you do spot small white worms, book a trip to the vet without delay!
Eye Problems
There are a large number of different eye and vision issues that can affect cats. Injuries from fights can threaten the eye, as can viruses like conjunctivitis and ageing related conditions like cataracts and glaucoma.
Watch for discharge around the eye, excessive blinking or grooming, or redness and whiteness on the eyelid – these are all signs that something could be seriously wrong. Many of these conditions can be treated or managed, but you should make sure you know what’s wrong and get advice or medication from your vet without delay.
