Common Cat Illnesses: Warning Signs & When to See a Vet

Cats are known for their independent nature, often hiding signs of illness until a condition worsens. However, early detection and timely veterinary care can significantly impact their health and longevity. As a responsible cat owner, understanding common cat illnesses and knowing when to seek professional help can prevent complications and improve your cat’s quality of life.

This guide explores the most common cat illnesses, their symptoms, causes, and when to take your cat to the vet for proper treatment.

Problem: Recognising When a Cat Needs Medical Attention

Many cat owners struggle to identify when their feline companion is unwell. Unlike dogs, cats are masters at masking discomfort—a survival instinct inherited from their wild ancestors. Unfortunately, this means that by the time a cat shows visible signs of illness, the condition may have already progressed.

🚨 Key Takeaway: Understanding subtle signs of illness and acting quickly can save your cat’s life.

Solution: Understanding Common Cat Illnesses & Seeking Timely Vet Care

1️⃣ Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)

URIs, often called "cat colds," are highly contagious viral or bacterial infections affecting the respiratory system.

Symptoms:

✅ Sneezing

✅ Runny nose and watery eyes

✅ Nasal congestion

✅ Coughing

✅ Loss of appetite

✅ Fever and lethargy

Causes:

🔹 Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV) are the most common causes.

🔹 Stress or crowded environments (e.g., shelters, catteries).

When to See the Vet:

🔸 If symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days.

🔸 If your cat has difficulty breathing or stops eating.

🔸 If discharge from the eyes or nose turns thick and yellow/green.

📌 Prevention Tip: Regular vaccinations (FVRCP) help reduce the severity of URIs.

2️⃣ Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) & Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

Urinary problems are serious and can quickly become life-threatening, especially in male cats.

Symptoms:

✅ Frequent urination

✅ Straining or crying in the litter box

✅ Blood in urine

✅ Licking the genital area excessively

✅ Urinating outside the litter box

Causes:

🔹 Bacterial infections

🔹 Bladder stones

🔹 Stress-induced FLUTD

🔹 Urinary blockages (especially in male cats)

When to See the Vet:

🚨 Immediately if your cat strains to urinate or passes no urine—this could indicate a life-threatening blockage.

🔸 If there’s blood in the urine or persistent symptoms despite home treatments.

📌 Prevention Tip: Provide fresh water daily and feed wet food to support urinary health.

3️⃣ Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, and Worms)

External and internal parasites can cause serious health issues if left untreated.

Symptoms:

✅ Fleas: Excessive scratching, hair loss, flea dirt (black specks in fur).

✅ Ticks: Visible parasites on the skin, localized swelling.

✅ Worms: Bloated belly, vomiting, diarrhea, visible worms in stool.

Causes:

🔹 Contact with infested animals or environments.

🔹 Ingesting flea larvae or contaminated food.

When to See the Vet:

🔸 If flea treatments don’t work, or your cat has anemia (pale gums, weakness).

🔸 If your cat vomits worms or has a persistent bloated belly.

📌 Prevention Tip: Use vet-approved flea and worm preventatives monthly.

4️⃣ Dental Disease

Dental problems in cats can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even organ infections.

Symptoms:

✅ Bad breath

✅ Drooling

✅ Red, inflamed gums (gingivitis)

✅ Difficulty chewing or dropping food

✅ Tooth loss

Causes:

🔹 Plaque and tartar buildup

🔹 Gingivitis or periodontal disease

🔹 Abscesses and tooth decay

When to See the Vet:

🔸 If your cat stops eating or cries out in pain when chewing.

🔸 If gums appear red, swollen, or bleeding.

🔸 If there’s pus, excessive drooling, or tooth loss.

📌 Prevention Tip: Brush your cat’s teeth regularly and offer dental treats or vet-approved chews.

5️⃣ Obesity-Related Issues

Overweight cats are at higher risk for diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.

Symptoms:

✅ Excess weight gain

✅ Difficulty jumping or moving

✅ Lethargy

✅ Increased risk of diabetes

Causes:

🔹 Overfeeding

🔹 Lack of exercise

🔹 High-carb diets

When to See the Vet:

🔸 If your cat is significantly overweight or struggles to move.

🔸 If they develop diabetes symptoms (increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss despite eating well).

📌 Prevention Tip: Feed a balanced, portion-controlled diet and encourage playtime daily.

6️⃣ Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in older cats and requires early intervention.

Symptoms:

✅ Increased thirst and frequent urination

✅ Weight loss and muscle wasting

✅ Vomiting and diarrhea

✅ Bad breath (ammonia smell)

Causes:

🔹 Aging

🔹 Genetics (some breeds, like Persians, are prone)

🔹 Dehydration and poor diet

When to See the Vet:

🔸 If your cat drinks excessively and urinates more than usual.

🔸 If they have weight loss and persistent vomiting.

📌 Prevention Tip: Provide wet food and fresh water to support kidney health.

7️⃣ Diabetes

Diabetes in cats is often linked to obesity and can lead to serious complications if untreated.

Symptoms:

✅ Increased thirst and urination

✅ Unexplained weight loss despite a healthy appetite

✅ Lethargy and weakness

Causes:

🔹 Obesity

🔹 Poor diet (high-carb foods)

🔹 Genetics

When to See the Vet:

🚨 Immediately if your cat shows signs of diabetes, as it requires lifelong management with insulin and diet changes.

📌 Prevention Tip: Maintain a healthy weight and avoid high-carb foods.

Conclusion: When to Visit the Vet

Cats may try to hide their illnesses, but early intervention is key. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, don’t wait—schedule a vet visit.

✅ Regular check-ups (at least once a year) help catch illnesses before they become serious.

✅ Monitor changes in behavior, appetite, or litter box habits—these can signal underlying issues.

✅ Prevention is better than cure—keep up with vaccinations, flea treatments, and a balanced diet.

🐾 Your cat’s health is in your hands—stay informed, be observant, and act quickly when needed! 🐾