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Cat Health Common Problems
No matter what breed of cat and no matter
how well you look after your cat, like us humans, they will suffer from
common cat health problems during the course of their life. As a cat
owner, you will need to be aware of the most common problems, some of
which can be avoided with the right awareness and by taking basic
precautions.
The most common cat health problems are colds, bite wounds, digestive problems, urinary problems and diarrhea, and
eye problems.
Cats are sensitive to many respiratory viruses and infections such
as the common cold and like humans they can usually rely on their own
immune system to deal with it. However, if your cat is off its food and
appears listless and in some distress then you should consult your vet
for appropriate medication.
Cats, particularly Tom cats do fight a lot. Often with other cats
and sometimes with dogs and more dangerously with the dreaded fox. This
can lead to various wounds which will need treatment from a vet to
avoid infections setting in. Eyes are particularly vulnerable.
Fleas are also a common cat health problem, especially if your cat
is outside a lot. Tapeworm and other parasites are common problems cat
health problems too and often cause symptoms such as vomiting and
diarrhea. Your vet will have medication to deal with these issues.
Another common cat health problem, mainly associated with Tom cats
that have not been neutered, is urinary tract infection. If your cat
stops using the litter box, or the urine is particularly strong
smelling then these are clear signs and your vet should be consulted
without delay.
Although not normally a cat health problem on its own, hairballs or
fur balls are very common and can lead to problems under certain
circumstances. Cats naturally swallow fur from their constant grooming
and although it will normally pass through the cats digestive system,
there are times when it gathers into a fur ball and may become lodged
in the digestive tract or intestine with serious consequences if not
treated quickly. Symptoms are not eating properly, constipation and
listlessness. Often a cat will cough up a fur ball if it gets caught in
the throat. You can help prevent hairballs or fur balls occurring if
you brush your cat regularly.
Feline leukemia used to be a very common cat health problem and was
often fatal. These days, however, with modern vaccines available the
disease can be prevented. Always have you cat vaccinated if there is a
risk of infection because this is a highly contagious disease.
The main message here is to monitor you cat's health, visit the vet
regularly for check ups and take advice from your vet on suitable
vaccinations.
Tags: Cat Health and Care Cat Health Cat Health Common Problems viruses infections cat health problem |
