Common Health Problems in Cats

Most cat breeds are gradually being bred to be free from genetic problems that were once found as a result of breeding program. But, it does not stop a feline from contacting the most common health problems. By knowing the basics of these health problems, you may be able to spot a problem at its early stage and solve it before it becomes too serious. Here are some common health problems that are found in most of the cats:

1. Lower Urinary Tract Disease

FLUTD, or Feline lower urinary tract disease, is actually a number of conditions that can affect the cat’s bladder as well as urethra. Symptoms of this medical condition can range from straining when going to the toilet to completely avoiding the litter tray. Blood in the urine, licking of the genitals excessively, or any other similar symptoms may be a sign of this medical condition. This problem becomes fetal at the time of urethral blockage.
When it comes to treating this health problem, establishing exactly what the problem is will be the first step of vet. The treatment of disease may involve antibiotics or pain medication perhaps sometimes minor surgery if there is a urethral blockage. For effective treatment, the cat may need dietary changes.

2. Kidney Disease

In cats, kidney disease or chronic renal failure reduces their ability to process waste which can lead to a dangerous build-up of toxins in their bloodstream. This disease can come from various reasons including infection in the kidney, kidney stones, high blood pressure and even exposure to some toxins. Symptoms of this medical condition include a loss of weight, decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea.

3. Cancer

‘Lymphosarcoma’, which is a cancer of the lymph system, is the most common type of cancer seen in cats. This type of cancer can be in the intestines or in the chest. Another common type of cancer is ‘Squamous Cell Carcinoma’, which is particularly prevalent in the white cats.
Cancer symptoms can vary but include swellings, lumps, weight loss, lethargy, diarrhea, repeated skin infections and vomiting as well as difficulties in breathing or going to toilet. Depending on the type of cancer condition, its treatment can vary from chemotherapy to surgery if it is operable and radiation or immuno therapy treatment.

4. Fleas

Fleas are not strictly speaking a health problem, but their presence can cause some fatal health problems in your cats. At the very least, cats will scratch their fur, resulting in bald patches. Fleas and their eggs can also be spotted on the fur of cat. Using various flea control products is the best way to deal with the problem. If cats show any signs of a negative reaction to these products, you should get in touch with your vet.
Is your cat suffering from flea? Learn how to remove fleas from cats?

5. Infections

Common infection suffered by cats is those of the respiratory tract. This can be prevented by vaccination. Symptoms of these types of infection range from watering eyes or a runny nose to fever cough and even mouth sores. Some of these infections are viral in nature and the cat will naturally fight them off. But, it is worth checking these infections with the vet, as some of the rarer ones can be fatal if left untreated.
Another common infectious condition in felines is called ‘Panleukopenia’. It is a viral infection which is caused by the feline parvovirus. The symptoms of this infection include bloody diarrhea, fever, lethargy, dehydration and loss of appetite. There is no medication of this infection, but watching fluid intake and overall health usually allows your feline friend to recover on its own. However, in kittens under eight weeks this infection is often fatal.