BASIC CAT CARE TIPS FOR NEW CAT OWNER

Have you recently added a feline friend to your family? Congratulations! We know you’ll be thrilled to have your new cat in your home. If you are considering adopting a cat, please visit your local shelter. We encourage you to browse our directory of adoptable cats in your area, or use our shelter finder to start your search.

Read on for useful tips for new cat parents, and for those looking to brush up on their pet care skills.

FEEDING

We recommend purchasing high-quality, brand-name kitten or cat food. Your veterinarian will be able to assess your new cat or kitten and determine the best diet. Factors such as age, activity level and health make a difference in what and how much a cat should eat.

• Cats require taurine, an essential amino acid, for heart and eye health. The food you choose should be balanced for the life stage of your cat or kitten. Properly balanced foods will contain taurine.
• You will need to provide fresh, clean water at all times, and wash and refill your cat’s water bowls daily.
• Treats should be no more than 5-10% of the diet.
• Many people feed baby food to a cat or kitten who is refusing food or not feeling well Please read labels carefully: If the baby food contains onion or garlic powder, your pet could be poisoned.
• Take your pet to your veterinarian if signs of anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting or lethargy continue for more than two days.

GROOMING

Most cats stay relatively clean and rarely need a bath, but you should brush or comb your cat regularly. Frequent brushing helps keep your cat's coat clean, reduces the amount of shedding and cuts down on the incidence of hairballs.

HANDLING

To pick up your cat, place one hand behind the front legs and another under the hindquarters. Lift gently. Never pick up a cat by the scruff of the neck or by the front legs.

HOUSING

Your pet should have her own clean, dry place in your home to sleep and rest. Line your cat's bed with a soft, warm blanket or towel. Be sure to wash the bedding often. Please keep your cat indoors. Outdoor cats do not live as long as indoor cats. Outdoor cats are at risk of trauma from cars, or from fights with other cats, raccoons and free-roaming dogs. Coyotes are known to eat cats. Outdoor cats are more likely to become infested with fleas or ticks, as well as contract infectious diseases.

IDENTIFICATION

If allowed outdoors, your cat must wear a safety collar and an ID tag. A safety collar with an elastic panel will allow your cat to break loose if the collar gets caught on something. And for both indoor and outdoor cats, an ID tag or an implanted microchip can help ensure that your cat is returned if he or she becomes lost.

LITTER BOX

All indoor cats need a litter box, which should be placed in a quiet, accessible location. In a multi-level home, one box per floor is recommended. Avoid moving the box unless absolutely necessary, but if you must do so, move the box just a few inches per day. Keep in mind that cats won't use a messy, smelly litter box, so scoop solid wastes out of the box at least once a day. Dump everything, wash with a mild detergent and refill at least once a week; you can do this less frequently if using clumping litter. Don't use ammonia, deodorants or scents, especially lemon, when cleaning the litter box. If your cat will not use a litterbox, please consult with your veterinarian. Sometimes refusal to use a litter box is based on a medical condition that required treatment.

SCRATCHING

Cats need to scratch! When a cat scratches, the old outer nail sheath is pulled off and the sharp, smooth claws underneath are exposed. Cutting your cat’s nails every two to three weeks will keep them relatively blunt and less likely to harm the arms of both humans and furniture. Provide your cat with a sturdy scratching post, at least three feet high. The post should also be stable enough that it won't wobble during use, and should be covered with rough material such as sisal, burlap or tree bark. Many cats also like scratching pads.

HEALTH

Your cat should see the veterinarian at least once a year for an examination and annual shots, and immediately if she is sick or injured.

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5 MOST DANGEROUS CAT DISEASES

According to the Humane Society of the United States, there are more than 70 million feral and stray cats roaming the streets. Because stray cats often carry dangerous diseases, the best thing that you can do to protect your domesticated cat against serious illness is to keep it indoors. By staying inside, your cat is less likely to fight with other animals and risk the chance of spreading diseases through wounds. You’ll also reduce their exposure to infection-spreading parasites, including fleas and ticks, and prevent the kidney failure that can come as a result of ingesting poisonous substances such as antifreeze.

Outdoor cats and those that live in multi-cat homes have the highest risk of disease. However, indoor cats and “only cats” can get sick, too. Most cat illnesses are easily preventable, but once your cat contracts an illness, it can be very difficult to treat. It’s also important to keep in mind that even minor ailments can suggest major health problems. But some cat diseases are more dangerous than others. Read on to learn about some of the most serious ones.

1. Feline Leukemia Virus

Feline leukemia is a disease that spreads through urine, nose discharge and saliva. Cats can catch the disease through bites, sharing food, water bowls and litter boxes, and from grooming eachother. Mother cats can pass the disease along to their kittens, and kittens are more likely to contract the disease than adult cats.

Some cats will immediately become ill upon contracting the virus. In other cats, symptoms of the disease will not manifest for several weeks or even years. Feline leukemia can result in a number of conditions, but ultimately will attack the immune system and lead to bone marrow failure. Any illness can be a sign of feline leukemia.

Although there is no cure for feline leukemia, the disease is easily preventable. Keeping cats indoors, restricting exposure to other cats, maintaining a clean living environment and ensuring your cat is vaccinated can all help prevent feline leukemia.

2. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus(FIV)

FIV is primarily spread through bite wounds, and outdoor cats and territorial tomcats are most susceptible to infection. Casual contact through sharing food and water bowls doesn’t significantly the increase risk of contracting FIV. A mother cat may rarely pass the virus along to her kittens.

Once the virus enters the bloodstream, it can remain dormant until it progresses into an active disease. FIV is terminal, and because it targets the immune system, cats that have the disease run an increased risk of common infections. To prevent FIV, keep your cat indoors and have them neutered to prevent fighting. There is currently no effective vaccine against FIV.

3: Kidney Disease/Renal Failure

Renal failure is one of the leading causes of death in older cats. Causes for renal failure include age, genetics and environmental factors such as ingesting poisonous substances. Renal failure in cats can take two forms: acute or chronic. Acute renal failure is associated with a sudden stop of kidney function, while chronic renal failure results from a progressive deterioration of kidney function.

A number of symptoms can show up as a result of renal failure, including excessive urination, increased thirst, nausea or vomiting, dehydration, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, halitosis (bad breath) and lethargy. If your cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, your veterinarian can test for renal failure. Blood tests can be checked for elevations in the kidney function values. Unfortunately, these tests will only be elevated once there has been at least a 75% loss of function. A urinalysis tests to check for loss of protein and to see if the cat’s urine is diluted can detect disease at earlier stages.

Although there is no cure for feline renal failure, it can be managed through adjustments to your cat’s diet, medication and hydration therapy. Well managed patients may be able to survive for long periods of time.

4. Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)

Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious viral disease, primarily seen in kittens born from unvaccinated mothers. Kittens almost always die, even if given treatment, after contracting the disease. It can spread through bodily fluids, feces and fleas, and is usually transmitted by contaminated food and water bowls, litter trays and clothing.

Feline distemper affects the intestinal tract and attacks the immune systems. Cats suffering from the disease are likely to experience diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, malnutrition,anemia and usually death within a few days. A veterinarian can diagnose feline panleukopenia through blood tests.

Treatment of feline panleukopenia is rarely successful. In order to prevent feline panleukemia, you should vaccinate your cat.

5. Feline Rabies

Cats are reported rabid more often than any other domesticated animal in the United States. Because of their curious nature and instinctual hunting skills, they come into contact with carriers of the disease more than other pets. Rabies is one of the most dangerous diseases because it doesn’t infect just cats, it can be passed along to humans, too. Rabies usually spreads to cats through bites from or ingestion of wild animals. With indoor cats, this can occur with bats or rodents that have gotten into your home. This debilitating and degenerative disease attacks the nervous system.

The normal incubation period is 10 days, but rabies can be deceptively slow-moving. The disease can incubate in a cat’s system for weeks, or even years in rare cases. Symptoms include poor coordination, yowling, drooling, fever, and any strange behavior.

There is no treatment or cure for feline rabies. Vaccines are highly effective in prevention, and all pets should receive them regularly. Keeping your cat indoors will reduce the risk of exposure to infected wildlife.

 

ZOONOTIC DISEASE: WHAT CAN I CATCH FROM MY CAT?

Although most feline infectious diseases only affect cats, some of these diseases can be transmitted from cats to people. Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to people are called zoonotic diseases. While not comprehensive, this article highlights the most common zoonotic diseases that may be carried by cats and simple precautions you can take to reduce your risk of contracting these diseases. For more information about specific risks, diagnosis, and treatment of zoonotic diseases, contact your physician/health professional.

WHAT'S THE RISK?

The likelihood of an average person contracting a zoonotic disease from a cat is low, but individuals with immature or weakened immune systems are more susceptible to these diseases. This includes infants, individuals with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the elderly, and people undergoing cancer chemotherapy or receiving other drugs that may suppress their immune systems.

COMMON FELINE ZOONOTIC DISEASES

Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by a bacterium called Bartonella henselae, which may be carried in the saliva of infected cats and in the bodies of cat fleas. As the name implies, this bacterial infection is usually transmitted from cat to human via scratches, although it can also be transmitted via bite wounds and when a cat licks the open wounds of a person. Among cats, this bacterium is most commonly transmitted by the bites of infected cat fleas, and it may also be found in the feces of these fleas, which can serve as sources of infection if exposed to an open wound in either a cat or a human.

People with CSD usually develop swelling and possibly a blister at the site of the bite or scratch. Lymph nodes in the region of the wound may swell and become painful, and affected individuals may experience fever, headache, sore muscles and joints, fatigue, and poor appetite. Healthy adults generally recover with no lasting effects, but it may take several months for the disease to go away completely. People with compromised immune systems may suffer more severe consequences, including infections of the eyes, brain, and heart. Severe cases of CSD may require antibiotic therapy to resolve.

Approximately 40 percent of cats are infected with Bartonella henselae, but most show no signs of disease. Antibiotics do not reliably cure infection in these cats and are not currently recommended. For humans, avoiding scratches and bites (for example, by not allowing children to play roughly with cats), washing hands after playing with cats, controlling fleas, and keeping cats indoors all reduce the risk of CSD. Because most cases of CSD result from contact with kittens under one year of age, immunocompromised people should avoid such contact.

Pasteurella multocida is a bacterium found in the mouths of between 70 and 90 percent of cats, and it has been found in between 50 and 80 percent of cat bites in humans that become serious enough to seek medical attention. Cat bites infected with this organism may develop pain, swelling, and redness at the wound site within 24 to 48 hours. Pasteurella-infected cat bite wounds are successfully treated with antibiotic therapy in the vast majority of cases, but more serious complications, such as the spread of bacteria through the blood stream and infection of heart valves, may occur in rare cases.

Salmonella poisoning, also called salmonellosis, is caused by a group of bacteria called Salmonella, and can lead to diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain beginning one to three days after infection. People usually contract salmonellosis by eating contaminated food, such as undercooked chicken or eggs, but it is possible to contract the disease from infected cats, which can carry Salmonella bacteria and pass them in their stool. Although salmonellosis usually resolves on its own, some individuals require medical attention to address severe diarrhea or the effects of the infection on organs other than the digestive tract.

Salmonella is more commonly found in cats that feed on raw meat or wild birds and animals, so owners can reduce the risk of salmonellosis in themselves and their cats by keeping cats indoors and feeding them cooked or commercially processed food. Wearing gloves when cleaning litterboxes or gardening (in case outdoor cats have defecated in the soil) and washing hands thoroughly after these activities is also recommended.

Parasitic Infections

Fleas are the most common external parasite of cats, and their bites can cause itching and inflammation in humans and cats alike. Fleas may also serve as vectors for CSD and other zoonotic diseases. Flea-infested cats may become infected with tapeworms from fleas ingested while grooming. While not common, people can also become infected with tapeworms by inadvertently ingesting fleas.

Scabies, or infection by the mange mite Sarcoptes scabiei, is another zoonotic external parasite of the skin of cats. While not as common as flea infestations, these mites can be passed from infected cats to people, where they burrow into the skin and cause itchy, raised lesions. Treatment in people usually involves the use of topical ointments to decrease itching, diligent treatment of infective pets, and careful cleaning of clothes and bedding.

Certain feline intestinal parasites, including roundworms (Toxocara) and hookworms (Ancylostoma), can also cause disease in people. Children are particularly at risk due to their higher likelihood of contact with soil that has been contaminated by cat feces. Although most people infected with feline intestinal parasites do not show signs of illness, some people may get sick.

Visceral larva migrans, a potentially serious disease that can affect various organs, results from consumption of Toxocara eggs (for instance, when soiled fingers are placed in the mouth). Toxocara larvae may then migrate to abdominal organs, including the liver, or to the central nervous system. Symptoms of visceral larva migrans may include fever, fatigue, coughing, wheezing, and abdominal pain. Ocular larva migrans is the term used for a condition in which Toxocara larvae migrate to the eye, causing visual disturbances, abnormal eye movements, or eye pain and discomfort.

Cutaneous larva migrans, an itchy skin disease, is caused by contact with soil contaminated with Ancylostoma larvae. These larvae may penetrate and migrate under the skin, with resultant inflammation, itching and pain, and raised, red linear lesions in the skin that follow the larva’s migration. Proper hygiene, including washing hands before meals, cleaning soil from vegetables, and reducing exposure to cat feces can prevent infection. Anti-parasite medications for kittens and annual fecal exams for adult cats can reduce environmental contamination and the risk of human infection.

Fungal Infections

Ringworm (or dermatophytosis) is not caused by a worm at all. Rather, it is a skin infection caused by a group of fungi. Infected cats most often come from environments housing large numbers of animals. In cats, ringworm usually appears as a dry, gray, scaly patch on the skin. In humans, ringworm often appears as a round, red, itchy lesion with a ring of scale around the edge. Lesions may be found in a variety of places, including the scalp, the feet (where’s its referred to as “athlete’s foot”), the groin, or the beard. Ringworm is transmitted by contact with an infected animal’s skin or fur, either directly or from a contaminated environment. Infected cats continuously drop fungal spores from their skin and fur. These spores, which remain capable of causing infection for many months, are difficult to eradicate from a household. Children are particularly at risk of infection. Treatment involves the use of either topical antifungal ointments or oral antifungal medication, depending upon the severity and location of lesions. To reduce environmental contamination, confine infected cats to one room until they are free of infection, then thoroughly clean and disinfect the household.

Protozoal Infections

Protozoans are single-celled organisms. The three most common protozoal diseases in cats and humans are cryptosporidiosis, giardiasis, and toxoplasmosis.

Cryptosporidiosis can cause diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps, and dehydration in both cats and people. Either direct or indirect contact with the feces of cats infected with Cryptosporidium organisms can lead to transmission of this disease. As with most other zoonotic diseases, immunocompromised individuals are at the greatest risk of infection. To prevent the spread of infection, schedule annual fecal examinations for your cats, and medicate infected cats as directed by your veterinarian. Other preventive measures include wearing gloves while handling feces-contaminated material and washing hands afterwards.

Giardiasis is caused by infection with the microscopic parasite Giardia. Many animal species (including the cat), are susceptible to infection with Giardia, which is passed in the feces and usually spread to other animals and humans via contaminated water sources, surfaces, or in uncooked food items. The symptoms of Giardia infection include diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal cramps, nausea, and dehydration. A number of prescription drugs are available to treat this condition, and most people that are infected make an uneventful recovery. It is important to realize that the majority of cases of giardiasis in people do not occur as a result of infection by cats, but rather by ingesting water or food contaminated by farm animals or wildlife.

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasitic protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. People with weakened immune systems and infants whose mothers are infected during pregnancy can develop severe illness from this parasite. Most people infected with Toxoplasma, however, show no overt signs of disease.

Cats can acquire Toxoplasma by eating infected rodents, birds, or anything contaminated with feces from another infected animal. An infected cat can shed the parasite in its feces for up to two weeks. Once shed in the feces, the parasite must mature for one to five days before it becomes capable of causing infection. However, it can persist in the environment for many months and continue to contaminate soil, water, gardens, sandboxes, or any place where an infected cat has defecated. Although pregnant women or immunosuppressed individuals are often advised to remove cats from the household to reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis, direct contact with cats is very unlikely to spread infection with this organism.

Cats can transmit Toxoplasma to people through their feces, but humans most commonly become infected by eating undercooked or raw meat, or by inadvertently consuming contaminated soil on unwashed or undercooked vegetables. The symptoms of toxoplasmosis include flu-like muscle aches and fever, and headache. In rare cases, more advanced symptoms such as confusion, seizures, vomiting, or diarrhea may be observed.

Basic hygiene can prevent the spread of Toxoplasma from cats to humans. Wear gloves when handling potentially contaminated material (for example, when gardening or scooping the litterbox), and be sure to wash your hands afterwards. Cover children’s sandboxes when not in use to prevent wandering cats from defecating in them.

Pregnant women or immunosuppressed individuals are safest when other household members clean the litter box.

Viral Infections

Rabies is a viral disease that is spread through the bite of an infected animal. Although most viruses infect only their natural host species, rabies is an important exception. Cats are highly susceptible to rabies, which attacks the central nervous system, causing a variety of signs. Rabies is almost always fatal. In people, rabies infections usually occur when an infected animal bites a person. In order to protect human health, rabies vaccination of cats is required by law in many areas. Even if your cat is kept indoors, it is important to keep rabies vaccines current because cats occasionally escape outdoors, and because rabid animals such as bats and raccoons occasionally enter houses. To further reduce your risk of rabies, avoid contact with wildlife and stray animals and see a doctor immediately if you have been bitten by an animal.

 

24 COMMON CAT DISEASES & HEALTH PROBLEMS - SYMPTOM GUIDE

Since cats are fiercely independent and sometimes mysterious little creatures, it can be difficult for pet parents to tell the difference between a minor issue and a serious health problem. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the signs and symptoms of the most common cat health problems, including FIV, FeLV, diabetes and more.

Read on for a closer look at common cat diseases, including symptoms and treatment outlooks. Remember: If your cat is exhibiting any alarming symptoms, contact your veterinarian. This article is purely for edification purposes and is not meant to help diagnose disease.

1. KIDNEY DISEASE

Kidneys filter out waste and regulate blood and water levels. If there is a breakdown or deterioration in the kidneys, cats can develop acute renal failure or chronic kidney disease. Acute renal failure typically develops quickly and can be reversed if it’s diagnosed in time. Chronic kidney disease cannot be cured, but early diagnosis and proper care can ensure that the feline lives a high-quality life.

Kittens can be born with kidney disease, and as cats get older, the kidneys can begin to fail. Infections, trauma, blockages and ingesting poison can also cause kidney issues. If left untreated, kidney disease can lead to other health problems.

A medical diagnosis that includes bloodwork and urinalysis is required to diagnose kidney disease. Some common signs that something may be wrong include:

• Frequent urination

• Weight loss

• Drinking a lot of water

• A dry coat

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Bloody or cloudy urine

2. DENTAL DISEASE,

The Cornell Feline Health Center reports that between 50% and 90% of cats over the age of four suffer from some type of dental disease. The most common feline dental diseases are gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth resorption — all of which can have varying degrees of severity. However, most cases of dental disease can either be prevented or treated with the proper care.

In some cases, a gum or tooth disease can cause severe pain and discomfort, which can affect a cat’s quality of life. Some cats may stop eating because of pain, which can lead to malnutrition and other health concerns.

Here’s a look at the three most common feline dental diseases:

Gingivitis: This is a condition that causes painful inflammation of the gums, usually as a result of plaque buildup.

Symptoms: Redness, swelling, discomfort or bleeding gums

Periodontitis: Gingivitis that is left untreated can result in periodontitis. This occurs when there is damage to the soft tissue of the gums or the bone that supports the teeth.

Symptoms: Similar to gingivitis, as well as an inability to eat, halitosis and drooling.

Tooth Resorption: This occurs when the inside structure of a tooth breaks down. Tooth resorption has unknown causes and is the most common reason for tooth loss in cats.

Symptoms: Pain, drooling, turning head to the side while eating or an inability to eat.

3. DIABETES

According to the ASPCA, cats can suffer from diabetes if they are unable to produce insulin or have an inadequate response to insulin. While diabetes in cats is a serious concern, it can be managed — some cats even go into remission with the proper care.

Feline diabetes can be caused by genetics, pancreatic disease or obesity. Symptoms of diabetes in cats include:

Weight loss

Increased thirst and/or urination

Lethargy

Dehydration

Change in appetite

Sweet-smelling breath

4. FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (FIV)

As the name indicates, FIV is a disease that compromises a cat’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to additional infections or illnesses. Since FIV is most commonly passed from cat to cat through bite wounds, outdoor male cats who get into fights are most likely to develop the virus.

FIV is diagnosed through bloodwork. There’s no cure for FIV, but infected cats can live normal lives if the condition is managed properly. FIV often goes undetected and affected cats may not experience symptoms until years after infection. Symptoms may progress as the cat ages and can include:

Gingivitis

Loss of appetite

Poor coat condition

Fever

Chronic or recurring infections

5. FELINE LEUKEMIA VIRUS (FELV)

FeLV is a cancer-causing retrovirus that is spread through cats’ saliva, blood, feces or urine. Alley Cat Allies reports that most cats get FeLV from their infected mothers at birth or through contact with other cats, such as through mutual grooming. FeLV can weaken the immune system and cause severe anemia, making the cat vulnerable to other diseases.

Symptoms on FeLV include:

Seizures or neurological disorders

Various eye conditions

Persistent diarrhea

Persistent fever

Skin, urinary or respiratory infections

Weight loss

Loss of appetite

FeLV can cause leukemia, lymphoma and infertility. Although there is no cure for FeLV, cats can live long healthy lives with the proper treatment.

6. CANCER

Lymphoma is the most common type of cancer affecting cats, but many different forms of the disease can occur. While a tumor often appears indicating cancer, it is not the only symptom, nor are all tumors cancerous. Many cases of feline cancer can go unnoticed, making routine veterinary exams paramount to early detection to improve treatment outcomes.

Symptoms of feline lymphoma include:

Weight loss

Anorexia

Diarrhea

Vomiting

Cats who are positive for FIV or FeLV have an increased risk of developing cancer. Other factors like diet and exposure to secondhand smoke are also risk factors. Genetics may play a role too, as Siamese cats are more likely to develop cancer than other breeds.

7. OBESITY

Generally, a cat weighing 20% more than their ideal weight is considered obese. Feline obesity shortens a cat’s lifespan and makes them more susceptible to diseases and health conditions including:

Diabetes

Joint problems

Cancer

Heart disease

If you are concerned that your cat may be obese, contact your veterinarian. They will determine an ideal weight goal based on your cat’s overall health and recommend a new diet plan to help them shed some pounds.

8. PANCREATITIS

For cats and humans alike, the pancreas performs vital functions in the digestive process. Pancreatitis develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed, and in cats it is also usually accompanied by inflammation in the liver and intestines.

The cause of pancreatitis in cats is unknown, but some felines with diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease may be at a higher risk. Symptoms of pancreatitis include:

Vomiting

Fever

Abdominal pain

Decreased appetite

Diarrhea

9. HYPERTHYROIDISM

Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease that affects middle-aged and older cats. It is most commonly caused by benign growths on the thyroid gland that increase its size and function, leading to an increase in the concentration of thyroid gland hormones.

Signs of hyperthyroidism in cats include:

Excessive amounts of energy

Increased appetite

Weight loss

Restlessness

A veterinarian will order lab tests to diagnose hyperthyroidism. The right treatment can reduce functioning thyroid hormone levels and help cats live a healthy, normal life.

10. BROKEN BONES

As with humans, cats can break bones when too much stress or pressure is applied. If a cat sustains a broken bone, they should receive veterinary attention right away for proper diagnosis and treatment to minimize long-term effects.

11. HIGH-RISE SYNDROME

Cats are known for their ability to land on all fours from great heights, but if they fall, they may still suffer serious injuries. This is known as high-rise syndrome, and can result in broken limbs, fractured teeth and other serious injuries.

12. SNEEZING

An occasional sneeze may be nothing more than just plain adorable. However, if sneezing is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms (lethargy, loss of appetite, nasal discharge) it may be a sign of a respiratory infection. For more details, see our article: Why Do Cats Sneeze?

13. DIARRHEA

Diarrhea can be uncomfortable for the cat and could possibly be a sign of a serious issue. While the occasional loose stool does not necessarily warrant concern, persistent diarrhea should be investigated by a veterinarian.

14. VOMITING

Cats are notorious for developing hairballs and eating too fast, two things that can cause an upset stomach and vomiting. There can be other, more serious reasons for vomiting, which we explore in this article: 10 Reasons Why Cats Vomit.

15. FLEAS

Cat fleas are the most abundant type of flea species on the planet and they are incredibly hard to eliminate. Since these fleas can carry diseases that are harmful to both cats and humans, prevention is key. Keep fleas away by regularly cleaning where your cat hangs out and using veterinarian-recommended prevention products.

16. TAPEWORMS

These intestinal parasites affect both cats and dogs, and are most often carried through fleas. Tapeworms are typically ingested by the pet while they are grooming, and may be noticeable in the cat’s feces. It’s rare for tapeworms to cause severe issues, but if they enter the stomach, the cat may vomit them up.

17. EYE PROBLEMS

Cats can be affected by eye problems such as cataracts, conjunctivitis, uveitis, glaucoma or progressive retinal atrophy. Fortunately, many of these can be successfully treated if discovered early, which again emphasizes the importance of routine veterinarian check-ups.

18. HEARTWORMS

Heartworms are more common in dogs, but these parasites can also choose feline hosts. While a blood test is required for an accurate diagnosis, common signs of the presence of heartworms include respiratory distress such as coughing or labored breathing.

19. RABIES

In the U.S., cats are the most common domesticated animals affected by rabies. If bitten by a rabid animal, a cat will show behavioral changes in addition to neuromuscular effects. It is of paramount importance to keep your cat’s rabies vaccines up to date. If possible, you should also keep your cats indoors to prevent them from being bitten.

20. RINGWORM

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect nearly every type of domesticated animal and humans. It develops through direct contact with the fungus and can cause itching, pain, redness and dryness. Fortunately, ringworm can be treated with a combination of topical and oral medications.

21. EAR MITES

Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in a cat’s ear canal. Abnormal itching or grooming of the ears can be a sign of the presence of ear mites. Treatment almost always involves thorough cleaning of the ear and possible symptom management through medication.

22. CONSTIPATION

Constipation can cause cats to strain while attempting to defecate, leading to abdominal pain. Some constipated cats might only pass small amounts of diarrhea-like feces that may contain blood due to the straining. A cat showing signs of constipation as well as lethargy, reduced appetite, distention or vomiting should receive veterinarian attention.

23. FOOD ALLERGIES

If a cat has food allergies, they may exhibit a skin irritation that results in a rash and/or itching, and diarrhea, constipation and vomiting can also occur. Beef, fish, chicken and dairy products are the most common causes of cat food allergies. It’s not uncommon for dietary changes to cause minor digestive irregularities in cats, which is why a slow transition to new food is strongly recommended.

24. FELINE LOWER URINARY TRACT DISEASES (FLUTD)

FLUTD refers to the conditions that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra. Symptoms include difficulty or pain when urinating, blood in the urine, increased urination and urinating outside of the litter box. FLUTD can have many causes and requires a diagnosis by a veterinarian.

 

5 WAYS TO CURE YOUR CAT’S LITTER BOX PROBLEMS

Is your cat not going in the box? If you’re feeling stressed and wondering what to do about your cat’s litter box problems – you’re not alone. Litter box aversion is a common problem with cat owners and is the number one reason that cats are surrendered to shelters.

WHAT IS LITTER BOX AVERSION?

Any time a cat chooses to use an area of your house other than their litter box to go to the restroom, it’s called litter box aversion. As a cat owner, litter box aversion can be a highly stressful issue — particularly because it most often starts out of the blue and with no apparent cause.

WHY DOES LITTER BOX AVERSION HAPPEN?

The cause of your cat’s litter box problems can be anything from medical to behavioral. Sometimes a urinary tract infection can cause your cat to lose control of their bladder, causing them to go somewhere other than their litter box.

Other times, a cold breeze near the litter box or an unpleasant smell in the area can be enough to cause your cat to not use their box.

Common medical causes of litter aversion include:

Urinary tract infections

Diabetes

Beginning renal failure

Inflammatory bowel disease

Constipation

Diarrhea or gas

If your cat begins to experience litter box aversion, consult your veterinarian immediately to evaluate whether the cause is an underlying medical issue.

Common behavioral causes of litter aversion include:

Litter box location

Dirty litter box

Transition to a new litter

Temperature around litter box

Cognitive issues (often age related)

Change in diet

Territorial issues between multiple cats

Stressful environment

Too few litter boxes

For each common behavioral trigger, there may be multiple causes influencing your cat’s decision not to use their litter box.

HOW TO CURE

CAT’S LITTER BOX PROBLEMS:

The first step to solving litter box aversion is to visit your veterinarian to diagnose any medical issues and treat them accordingly. In the case of a medical issue, one treatment may be all it takes to help your cat return to their normal litter box routine.

If medical issues have been ruled out by your veterinarian, your next step should be to try and diagnose what environmental cause may have triggered your cat’s litter box aversion.

1. CONSIDER ANY RECENT CHANGES THAT HAVE BEEN MADE TO YOUR CAT’S LIFESTYLE.

Did you change their diet or their litter? Have you moved, started a new project, or invited someone new into your home? Any changes such as these could have triggered your cat’s behavioral change.

If any of these factors have changed, reverting back to regular habits and providing your cat with increased care and attention may be enough to solve their litter box aversion.

2. TRY RELOCATING YOUR CAT’S LITTER BOX TO A CALM, QUIET, AND TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED LOCATION.

Any of these factors can cause your cat not to use their box — so avoid placing the litter box in a location prone to drafts, heavy foot traffic or noises from boilers, vents or the outdoors.

3. IF YOU HAVE MULTIPLE CATS, TRY ALLEVIATING ANY POTENTIAL TERRITORIAL ISSUES.

A common guideline for multiple cat households is to provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra. You should also place litter boxes in multiple locations so if two cats need to go at the same time, they each have their own space for privacy and comfort.

4. CHANGE YOUR LITTER BOX ROUTINE.

Cats are extremely particular about their litter boxes, so increasing the frequency of cleanings can ensure your cat never avoids their box because it’s dirty.

Consider transitioning slowly to a high-performance litter, or a litter designed to help prevent litter box aversion, such as World’s Best Cat Litter™ Picky Cat™. This formula offers the superior odor control and quick clumping you know and love, with added natural ingredients to draw your cat to their litter box.

5. OFFER YOUR CAT SOME EXTRA GUIDANCE, ATTENTION AND LOVE.

Though it may be tempting to want to scold your cat after they go to the bathroom outside of their litter box, doing so will only cause your cat more anxiety and perpetuate this behavior.

Spending extra time to bond with your cat, and to calmly show them where their litter box is and reward them with treats after going in it, will help to make them feel more comfortable and to associate their litter box with positive feelings.

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