Warning Signs
Cats are masters at hiding illness. By the time symptoms show, the disease may be advanced. Watch for these red flags:
If you see any of these, contact a vet immediately — do not wait.
Common Diseases
Affects: 1 in 3 cats over age 10
Symptoms: Increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, poor coat, vomiting
Cause: Age-related deterioration of kidney function
Treatment: Prescription kidney diet, increased water intake, phosphorus binders, fluid therapy
Prevention: Fresh water always available, wet food, regular bloodwork after age 7
Affects: 1 in 230 cats
Symptoms: Excessive thirst and urination, weight loss despite eating, lethargy, weak back legs
Cause: Obesity, genetics, pancreatitis, certain medications
Treatment: Insulin injections, prescription low-carb diet, weight management
Prevention: Maintain healthy weight, avoid free-feeding, high-protein diet
Affects: 1 in 10 cats over age 10
Symptoms: Weight loss with increased appetite, hyperactivity, vomiting, night yowling, matted coat
Cause: Overactive thyroid gland
Treatment: Daily medication, radioactive iodine therapy, prescription diet, surgery
Prevention: Annual bloodwork after age 8
Affects: 3% of cats, more common in males
Symptoms: Straining to urinate, crying in litter box, blood in urine, urinating outside box, only drops coming out
Cause: Crystals, stones, stress, dry food diet, dehydration
Treatment: Prescription urinary diet, increased water, stress reduction
EMERGENCY: Complete blockage is fatal within 24-48 hours — rush to vet!
Affects: 2-5% of cats worldwide
Symptoms: Often none for years; then recurring infections, weight loss, poor coat
Cause: Bite wounds from infected cats (usually outdoor males)
Treatment: No cure — manage symptoms, keep indoors, treat infections aggressively
Prevention: Keep cats indoors, FIV vaccine available
Affects: 2-3% of cats, higher in outdoor populations
Symptoms: Weight loss, poor appetite, pale gums, fever, recurring infections, cancer
Cause: Close contact with infected cats (saliva, grooming, shared bowls)
Treatment: No cure — supportive care only
Prevention: FeLV vaccine, keep indoors, test before introducing new cats
Affects: 70% of cats over age 3
Symptoms: Bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, red gums, tartar buildup
Cause: Plaque and tartar buildup leading to gum infection
Treatment: Professional cleaning, extractions if needed, antibiotics
Prevention: Brush teeth daily, dental treats, annual vet cleaning
Affects: 1 in 5 cats will develop cancer
Common types: Lymphoma (most common), squamous cell carcinoma, mammary tumors
Symptoms: Lumps, unexplained weight loss, non-healing wounds, difficulty eating/swallowing
Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, palliative care
Prevention: Spay early (reduces mammary cancer), limit sun exposure, no smoking near cats
Common Parasites
| Parasite | Signs | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Fleas | Scratching, hair loss, black specks in fur | Monthly topical or oral prevention |
| Ticks | Visible bugs, weakness, fever | Manual removal + prevention |
| Ear Mites | Head shaking, dark ear debris, scratching ears | Vet-prescribed ear drops |
| Roundworms | Pot-belly, visible worms in stool, vomiting | Deworming medication |
| Tapeworms | Rice-like segments near tail | Deworming + flea control |
| Giardia | Diarrhea, weight loss, poor coat | Prescription antiparasitic |
| Toxoplasmosis | Often none; fever, lethargy, eye problems | Antibiotics; dangerous for pregnant women |
Prevention is Key
Top 10 Ways to Keep Your Cat Healthy:
- Keep cats indoors — prevents fights, cars, disease
- Annual veterinary checkups (twice yearly after age 10)
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
- Monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Feed high-quality, species-appropriate food
- Fresh water available at all times
- Maintain healthy weight (feel ribs, not see them)
- Brush teeth regularly
- Provide enrichment (toys, scratching posts, cat trees)
- Spay or neuter your cat
Vaccination Schedule
| Vaccine | Kitten Schedule | Adult Booster |
|---|---|---|
| FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) | 8, 12, 16 weeks | Every 1-3 years |
| Rabies | 12-16 weeks | Every 1-3 years (legally required) |
| FeLV (Feline Leukemia) | 8, 12 weeks | Every 1-3 years (for outdoor cats) |
| FIV | Optional | For high-risk outdoor cats only |
| Bordetella | Optional | For cats in boarding facilities |
Note:
All cats boarding at Cat Paradise must be current on Rabies and FVRCP vaccinations. We require proof of vaccination at check-in.
When to Rush to the Vet
Minutes Matter
In emergencies, do not wait for a regular appointment. Call ahead and go to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Indoor cats can still be exposed through windows (from other cats outside), shoes, clothing, and insect vectors. They still need core vaccines and regular vet care.
Most cat diseases are species-specific, but some are zoonotic (can spread to humans): ringworm, toxoplasmosis, cat scratch disease, and rabies. Wash your hands after handling cats, especially before eating.
Once a year for healthy adult cats. Twice a year for cats over age 10 or with chronic conditions. Immediately if you notice warning signs.
This is instinct — sick cats in the wild isolate to avoid predators. Hiding is a symptom itself and should be taken seriously if it's new or prolonged.
Highly recommended. Emergency care can cost $2,000-$5,000+. Insurance plans start around $15-30/month and cover accidents, illness, and sometimes wellness care.
Worried About Your Cat's Health?
Our veterinary team can help with diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care plans.
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