9 Subtle Signs That Your Cat Is Sick

It was just the other day that I read an interesting article that the number of cats in US far outnumbers the number of dogs; however cats receive far less frequent veterinary care. Cats display subtle signs of illness and it is best to schedule at least 2 annual examinations for the cat as a preventive measure.

Watch out for the 9 subtle signs that your cat is sick:

1) A cat’s stinky breath could indicate kidney problem, digestive disorder or serious dental disease, while a sweet or fruity smelling breath could indicate diabetes. Make sure to consult your vet, if your cat’s pearly whites emit bad or unusual odors.

 
2) An increase or decrease in the eating and drinking habits of a cat could indicate something is wrong. Cats may eat and drink more due to conditions like diabetes, hyperthyroidism and inflammatory bowel disease. A decrease in eating and drinking could indicate kidney disease, dental problems or cancer. So it important to note these subtle changes.

3) The change in the activity or nature of a cat could be a powerful indicator of sickness. A decrease in activity could indicate arthritis. Also watch out when a previously clingy cat acts aloof or an independent cat that suddenly turns clingy; it could be a subtle sign of sickness.

4) Watch out for change in appearance and grooming habits of your cat. An unkempt appearance or increased shedding could indicate allergies or hyperthyroidism. Over grooming could indicate stress, allergies and pain.

5) Cats dislike changes and could show various behavioral changes with changes rearranging the furniture, change in family schedule or when a new pet comes and goes. Old cats are more prone to stress and may show signs as missing the litter box. Anxiety also requires professional attention like heart disease and diabetes.

6) Watch out for changes in vocalization like a cat howling overnight; it could be the result of hypertension, hyperthyroidism or anxiety.

7) Watch out for subtle changes in the frequency, color, smell and volume in the poop and pee; an increase in urination could indicate diabetes, while a cat suddenly straining and crying in the litter box or pooping or peeing outside could indicate lower urinary tract infection. Inform your vet immediately.

8) Any unexpected increase or decrease in weight without change in appetite could indicate sickness of your cat; cats with hyperthyroidism and diabetes may lose weight even though they eat more.

9) A change in the sleeping habits like catnapping to suddenly awakening in the night could indicate pain or illness, most probably associated with old age.  

To conclude cats are very subtle creatures, with the most subtle changes indicating that a cat is sick; a smart master is one that notes these changes and consults a vet. 

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