Having an animal at home is cause for joy, but as in people, diseases can also cause having an animal in the home is cause for joy, but as in people, diseases can also surprise us when we least expect it. If you live with a cat, you will already know how special they are and without a doubt this post interests you, because from the Veterinary Hospital of the Sea of Castellón we are going to talk to you about the most common diseases in cats, so that you are attentive to their health.
- Rage. A virus that is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and can be transmitted between different species (also to humans), hence the importance of its vaccination, mandatory in most of Spain.
- Feline immunodeficiency virus. It is a disease that can even be fatal due to lentivirus and mainly affects non-sterilized adult cats, but they can already be born with the virus. In addition, it is transmitted by bite of an infected animal to another that is not. Suspicions: infection in the mouth or intestine, respiratory pathology, loss of a lot of weight…
- Feline leukemia virus. It is a viral alteration, which in the case of leukemia can produce some type of cancer that is transmitted between cats by contact with bodily fluids (saliva, blood or urine). We will notice drowsiness, anemia, tumors, weakness, lack of appetite… To prevent it, it is best to vaccinate our cat, as the disease can cause death.
- Perionitis (PIF). It is an infectious disease of the feline coronavirus family (it has nothing to do with human coronavirus). Although it can have highly variable symptoms, the most common is fever, anorexia, increased abdominal volume due to fluid accumulation. It has no treatment. There is vaccination, although the protection it offers is not complete, and there are many research studies underway, although there is currently no 100% legally available treatment. FIP can be deadly, especially in younger cats.
- Cystitis. Better known as a urine infection. The cat’s urinary system becomes more problematic with age, as minerals clog the urinary duct, causing pain when urinating, great thirst, absence of urination, licking in the urinary area, vomiting… You will also see that the kitten urinates outside its sandbox.
- allergies. There are many and varied, as in humans: plants, pollen, fungi, perfumes, some foods, cleaning products, tobacco smoke, flea bites and a long etcetera. How to identify an allergy? Your cat will have vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, itchy nose or eyes, hair will fall out in a specific area…
- Conjunctivitis. It can occur at any age and is an inflammation of the mucosa of the eye, which if not diagnosed and treated in time can lead to loss of vision. Above all, you will detect an excess of rheum, tearing and opacity in your cornea.
- Otitis. It is inflammation of the ear canal, it can cause pain and lead to hearing loss. It is usually due to the presence of parasites (mites, fungi or bacteria). You will recognize the discomfort of your cat that will scratch continuously.
- Gastrointestinal disorders. You will detect them through signs such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite or weakness in the animal. The most common thing is that it happens when you ingest food in poor condition or due to a bacterial infection, the presence of internal parasites or a virus. Before any suspicion, bring it to the vet urgently.
- Feline panleukopenia. It is a disease that can be fatal and the most common symptoms are fever, hypothermia, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, anorexia and dehydration. The treatment: intravenous hydration and antibiotics. There is also vaccination against this disease.
As you will see, there are many diseases that your cat can suffer from and also, you should know that felines are experts at hiding their health problems. Hence, as owners we are responsible for its care and we recommend that you observe the animal and that in the event of any suspicious change in its behavior (appetite, mood, weight changes, uncertain attitudes, different routines, inappropriate urination…) go to the veterinary hospital.
