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7 Signs Your Cat Might Be Unwell

7 Signs Your Cat Might Be Unwell

Cats are creatures of mystery. In the wild, a cat showing signs of illness was singled out as prey. To defend themselves, cats learned to hide their illnesses very well. Even now, when there is no threat from predators, domesticated cats will continue to hide any signs they are unwell. It is up to the eagle-eyed cat owner to find any trace of illness and take the cat to the vet.

But what are you meant to look out for? Here are 7 signs to keep an eye out for that will let you know that something is wrong with your cat.

1. Weight Loss/Weight gain

Any drastic change in your cat’s weight could be an indication that they are unwell. This can also be picked up through any changes in appetite. If your cat skips the occasional meal, that’s normal. Cats are often capable of providing themselves with a snack throughout the day. However, if your cat has stopped eating altogether or is eating far more than they usually would, you need to be investigated further.

 If your cat puts on a lot of weight in a very short time, there could be a chance she is pregnant. An ultrasound will be able to confirm whether this is the case. This means you then need to consider nutritional changes to support her to grow healthy kittens. This also means learning about from your vet/nurse what to expect when your cat is expecting and getting them to provide advice on how to handle a litter of kittens.

Many cats also gain weight due to being fed carbohydrate dense dry or wet food diets. They have ZERO nutritional need for this and transitioning them to a raw food diet for cats often sees their weight better regulated.

2. Vomiting and Diarrhoea

Persistent vomiting is not normal behaviour for cats. The occasional hairball is to be expected, but if your cat can’t keep its food down and is vomiting for a few hours, you need to take it to the vet. If this vomiting is accompanied by diarrhoea, it is a big red flag that your cat is unwell. If left untreated, hours of vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and intestinal inflammation, so you need to act as soon as you suspect something is wrong. For acute cases we recommend having our Digestive Reset on hand and SB (probiotic) which can help alleviate many low-risk issues. Offering bone broth is also very useful to keep them hydrated.

3.  Changes in physical appearance

    Skin irritation. This is also likely to be painful or itchy, so don’t touch your cat’s skin if it looks inflamed. Overgrooming will help you recognise skin irritation, as your cat will lick and tend to the one spot for a prolonged time. There are lots of natural topical options that can be explored and have your vet perform cytology to diagnose the type of skin problems means you can select more targeted natural options as part of their treatment plan.

    Hair loss. This is often a sign of allergies, external parasites, or skin conditions. Hair loss may be accompanied by skin irritation too.

    Discharge from nose and eyes. This could be symptomatic of respiratory illness or an illness contagious to other cats.

    Swelling. This should be taken very seriously, as it could be an injury turning into an abscess or it may be a tumour.

    Ear discharge. Some cats can be prone to ear infections or ear mites. Ear issues need to be addressed immediately to prevent damage to the eardrum. Having topical ear cleaning options such as our probiotic spray and feeding fresh food can help minimize these issues progressing.

    Limping or difficulty jumping. This could be symptomatic of a range of injuries. We offer lots of natural pain and joint/mobility options in our nutraceutical range alongside rehabilitation support once you’ve had a diagnosis and work-up from your vet. 

4. Personality changes

Cats have very distinct personalities. If your cat is acting out of the ordinary, it may be a sign they are unwell.

Personality changes you need to look out for are as follows:

    Increased vocalisation. Sometimes cats meow more because they’re bored. Other times they are trying to tell you they are stressed or in pain. If vocalisation continues for longer than usual, consider taking your cat to the vet.

    Disorientation. If your cat seems confused, dizzy, or unbalanced, you need to take them to the vet immediately.

    Aggression or fear. If your cat is typically comfortable around humans and suddenly seems afraid or they have suddenly turned very aggressive, you need to bring this up with your vet.

5. Change in thirst

Most of the time, you won’t notice your cat drinking. However, if you’ve realised they’ve made one too many trips to the water bowl that afternoon and they’ve urinated more than usual, it could be a sign of a kidney or urinary tract issue.

6. Changes in breathing

Wheezing, difficulty breathing, or rapid breathing are all signs that your cat needs medical attention. If the issue is severe, take your cat directly to a Veterinary clinic for x-ray and treatment. If your cat is coughing, it may be a hairball. Keep an eye on them, but should they have difficulty breathing or blue gums, take them straight to the Veterinary clinic.

7. Bad breath

Cat breath isn’t minty fresh at the best of times. However, if it smells particularly rank (like rotting eggs), there’s a good chance they need a dental health plan. Keep an eye on your cat’s dental hygiene and make sure you are brushing their teeth regularly. Dental toys, dental treats, and a dental diet can help support tooth and gum health for your cat. Remember cats are carnivores so they should eat bones.