10 Warning Signs Your Cat May Be Sick

Most cat owners will tell you that cats have a very high tolerance to pain. Many times, it is almost undetectable if a cat is in pain or hurting. As loving cat owners, it is our job to do our best to pay attention to even the slightest change in our cat.

These 10 Warning Signs Your Cat May Be Sick are important to helping you determine if your cat is sick. Keep in mind that should your cat present any of these symptoms, you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

1. Litter box changes – One of the first and easiest signs your cat may be sick is when you find him urinating or defecating outside of his cat box. While this also may signal he hates the cleanliness of his box, it more than likely means your cat has a urinary infection, etc.

2.Activity change – If you have a pretty inactive cat to begin with, you may not notice an activity change. However, if your cat is normally pretty frisky and all of a sudden you find him lethargic or not interested in usual activities, it is time to take him to the vet to get assessed.

3.Change in Appetite – If your cat all of a sudden decides to stop eating/drinking, or begins eating frantically, he may be sick. If you recently changed your cat food, perhaps consider giving it a full day to see if your cat is boycotting the change as well.

4.Obvious Odour – When you notice your cat has an odour change in the fur, mouth, poo department, etc. this definitely means something is going on with your cat.

5.Sleep Changes – Your cat has a routine, one that includes when he is normally awake and when he goes to bed. If you are finding that your normally sleepy cat is awake or that he is constantly sleeping, it is a big warning sign.

6.Vomiting/Diarrhea – Cats and hairballs usually go hand-in-hand. However, if you are finding that your cat is vomiting abnormally and/or having diarrhea, you need to be vigilant. Vomiting could also mean a poisoning, so if your cat goes outdoors it is important to seek veterinary attention quickly.

7.Change in Weight – An obvious change in weight occurs over time. It may seem sudden, but most likely your cat is dealing with a prolonged illness. Combined with other warning factors, your cat needs to visit the vet.

8.Grooming Change – Most cats spend the day bathing themselves. However, a sick cat won’t be spending time on their coat. Rather, you will notice a greasy coat and perhaps odour.

9.Dilated Eyes – Some diseases may present themselves as dilation of the eye/eyes. You will want to get your can seen sooner rather than later!

10.Quick Breathing – Respiratory issues are a severe warning sign. If your cats breathing is quick, or even shallower than usual, pay close attention.