Common Cat Diseases to Watch Out For and How to Prevent Them
Cats are among the most beloved pets thanks to their charm and affectionate nature. But like humans, cats are also prone to various illnesses. If left unchecked, some cat diseases can progress rapidly and become life threatening. Knowing the most common cat diseases and ways to prevent them is essential to keeping your feline healthy and by your side for many years.
Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (Cat Flu)
- Cause: Viruses such as Feline Herpesvirus and Feline Calicivirus
- Symptoms: Frequent sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, fever, loss of appetite
- Prevention: Ensure cats receive core vaccines, maintain good hygiene, and avoid exposure to infected cats
Rabies in Cats
- Cause: Rabies virus, transmissible to humans
- Symptoms: Unusual aggression, excessive drooling, paralysis, eventual death
- Prevention: Annual rabies vaccination is the most effective protection
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
- Cause: Feline Leukemia Virus, transmitted via saliva, blood, or shared items
- Symptoms: Anemia, weight loss, weakened immunity, frequent infections
- Prevention: Regular testing, vaccinating against FeLV, and isolating infected cats from healthy ones
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- Cause: Common in senior cats due to kidney degeneration
- Symptoms: Excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, vomiting, poor appetite
- Prevention: Annual health checkups, feeding appropriate diets especially kidney friendly formulas for at risk cats
Dental and Gum Disease
- Cause: Plaque and bacterial buildup in the mouth
- Symptoms: Bad breath, red or swollen gums, drooling, difficulty eating
- Prevention: Regular tooth brushing, dental chews, and professional dental checkups
Tips for Maintaining Cat Health
- Keep vaccinations up to date as advised by veterinarians
- Schedule annual checkups especially for cats over seven years old
- Provide a balanced high quality diet
- Maintain a clean environment including litter boxes and bedding
- Watch for warning signs such as appetite loss, weight changes, or abnormal shedding
Cat diseases are common and can seriously affect your pet’s well being if overlooked. Prevention through vaccines, regular vet visits, and proper nutrition is the key to ensuring long lasting health.
For complete veterinary services including health checkups and vaccinations, visit PETClub Hospital, where professional veterinarians and modern equipment are ready to provide the best care for your feline friend.
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References
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Common Cat Diseases.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Feline Upper Respiratory Infection.
- PetMD. Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats.
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Cat Care Guidelines.
