Subtle signs of sickness in cats
Cats are masters at hiding illness, so it may not always be obvious if they are sick. Changes in behavior or normal routine are often the first signs of potential illness.
Listed below are the 10 Subtle Signs of Illness in Cats:
1) Inappropriate Elimination Behavior or Litter Box UseInappropriate and annoying elimination behaviors by your cat can often indicate an underlying medical condition and do not mean that your cat is trying "to get back" at you. These behaviors can include urinating or defecating outside the litter box or other problems. A cat with these behaviors may have any number of conditions, including lower urinary tract disease, kidney disease, urinary tract infection and diabetes.
2) Changes in InteractionCats are social animals and enjoy interactions with their human family and often with other pets. Changes in those interactions may signal problems such as disease, fear and anxiety. It may also signal pain, which can cause aggression.
3) Changes in ActivityA decrease or increase in activity can be a sign of a number of conditions. Discomfort from joint disease or systemic illnesses can also lead to a decrease in activity. Increased activity is often seen with hyperthyroidism. It's important to understand that the "slow-down" we observe in our senior and geriatric cats is often a sign of illness rather than aging.
4) Changes in Sleeping HabitsThe average adult cat may spend 16-18 hours per day sleeping. The key to differentiating abnormal lethargy from normal napping is knowing your cat's sleeping patterns and noting any changes, plus observing them for normal socialization during their waking hours.
5) Changes in Food and Water ConsumptionMost cats are not finicky eaters. Look for changes such as a decrease or increase in consumption and how the cat chews its food. Increased water intake can be an early indicator of thyroid problems, kidney disease, diabetes or other illness.
6) Unexplained Weight Loss or GainWeight changes often go unnoticed because of a cat's thick coat. A change in weight does not necessarily correlate with a change in appetite. If your cat goes to the food dish and then backs away from it without eating or "covers in up", they may be experiencing nausea. On the other hand, obesity has become a serious health concern in cats. Adverse sequelae to this include an increased risk of diabetes, joint disease, lower urinary tract disease and other problems.
7) Changes in GroomingCats are typically fastidious groomers. A decrease in grooming behavior can indicate a number of conditions, including fear, anxiety, oral discomfort, arthritis, obesity or other illnesses. An increase in grooming may be a sign of an itchy skin problem.
8) Signs of StressYour cat can feel stress despite having an "easy" life. Boredom and sudden changes are common causes of stress in cats. Stressed cats may demonstrate decreased grooming and social interaction, spend more time awake and scanning their environment, hide more, withdraw and exhibit signs of depression, and have an increased or decreased appetite.
9) Changes in VocalizationIncreased vocalization or howling is more common in older cats and can often be correlated with hearing loss or an underlying metabolic or cognitive issue. Many cats also have increased vocalization if they are in pain or anxious.
10) Bad BreathSince dental disease is considered a silent disease, it is important to have your cat's teeth checked by your veterinarian on at least an annual basis. One early indicator of an oral problem is bad breath. Regular home care, including tooth brushing and dental care diets can prevent plaque accumulation, tartar formation, bad breath, pain, tooth loss and the spread of oral infection to other important internal organs.
*Information was adapted from Feline Behavior Guidelines from the American Association of Feline Practitioners.