Do you know how to tell when you cat needs to go to the vet? The earlier you detect a health problem the better; your cat will get better faster and it can save you lots of money on expensive vet bills. Brent Lotz, a certified veterinary assistant, says to keep an eye out for these signs that may mean your cat has a health problem. And if you see any of these symptoms in your cat, it’s time to book an appointment with your cat’s vet ASAP:
1. Change in Appetite
If your kitty is not wanting to eat, or always seems hungry, this can be a sign of several diseases that a vet should look into. Also, if you cat is trying to eat but it seems painful, this could be a sign of a tooth problem.
2. Sudden Weight Change
A sudden or drastic weight change, either gain or loss, can mean something is wrong with your cat’s health. Knowing what a “good weight” is on your cat is the key to recognizing this sign.
3. Lethargy
While cats are known for being lazy, there is a difference between a cat napping, and a cat not feeling well enough to move. If he/she no longer runs when they hear you getting their food ready, or if their normal “Zoomy time” has been replaced with curling up on the couch, something may be wrong. Many feline diseases and illnesses have lethargy as a telltale symptom, so a trip to the vet is a good idea if you spot an overly tired cat.
4. Vomiting & Diarrhea
Both of these are a clear sign that something is wrong. If there is blood in either the vomit or diarrhea, do not hesitate and contact your vet immediately.
5. Coat Quality
You cat should have a nice, soft clean coat. If you notice your cat’s coat is flaky, dry, greasy, falling out or your cat is not grooming properly, they may have developed a disease or an allergy. Though it may be as simple as switching foods, it’s a good idea to go to the vet to make sure nothing more serious is happening.
6. Not using Litterbox
If your kitty always uses their litter box and then suddenly stops, they may have a problem. It could be any number of issues, including a urinary infection or incontinence.
7. Obsessive Licking
If your cat is obsessively licking herself, than that could be a sign of several skin diseases, allergies or parasites, including fleas. If you notice your cat is licking excessively (some will even make bald patches) then there is definitely an issue at hand.
8. Mood Swings
Is your friendly cat suddenly taking swipes at you when you try petting them or picking them up? Resisting their owner’s advances for affection is often a sign that your cat is in pain. A cat with a sudden change in temperament and behavior is often a trigger of a health issue.
9. Bad Breath
For this sign, you have to know what your cat’s breath normally smells like. Obviously, because, your cat’s breath isn’t going to be “minty fresh” like a human’s, but their should never be a foul smelling odor coming off of it. Bad breath can definitely mean something is wrong in your kitty’s mouth. Whether your poor cat may be suffering from an abscess, tooth decay or an infection, bad breath is the first sign of any of these conditions.
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