10 Warning Signs Your Cat Needs To Go To The Veterinarian

Signs Your Cat Needs To Go To The Veterinarian

Regular check-ups are important for your cat’s health. These regular pet examinations keep your cat caught up on vaccinations and catch early signs of disease. There are times, however, that your cat may exhibit certain symptoms, and you aren’t sure whether they require a trip to the veterinarian or a wait and see attitude at home. While it is always a good idea to error on the side of caution and take your cat to the veterinarian if you are concerned, here are ten symptoms that should never be ignored.

1. Signs Of Obvious Distress
   Cats are typically very stoic animals, so if your cat suddenly seems to be in distress, it is a cause for concern. Howling, crying, hiding, and otherwise acting in a way that is out of character for your pet should alert you that something may be seriously wrong.
2. Abnormal Litter Box Behavior
   Changes in litter box habits, particularly in male cats, can indicate a serious health problem. Urinary obstruction is a condition that prevents the cat from passing urine and can be fatal without treatment. If your cat suddenly begins urinating outside the litter box, straining and crying while producing little urine, or begins grooming the genital area excessively, contact your veterinarian immediately.
3. Repeated Vomiting
   Occasional vomiting of food or hair is normal. Repeated vomiting may indicate that something is seriously wrong. If your cat continues to eat and drink, as well as use the litter box, contact your veterinarian to discuss his symptoms. However, if your cat stops eating, drinking, and urinating, it should be considered a medical emergency.
4. Overwhelming Fatigue
   Many cats are naturally low energy, but if your cat suddenly becomes entirely sedentary, does not work up enthusiasm for things she normally enjoys, and even goes off by herself to sleep in strange areas, something could be seriously wrong.
5. Sudden Change In Appetite
   Cats can have a reputation for being finicky, but you know what is normal for your pet. If his appetite changes suddenly, with him showing either more or less interest in his food that usual, he may have an undiagnosed health issue.
6. Dragging Back Legs
   Aortic thromboembolism is a complication that can develop in cats with heart disease. In this condition, a blood clot becomes lodged in the back legs, causing paralysis and distress. It is vital to get your cat medical attention immediately.
7. A Lump Or Unusual Growth
   Lumps or bumps may be perfectly harmless, but without an examination, it is impossible to tell. Even if the new growth is benign, it can develop on an area that causes discomfort for your pet.
8. Coughing Or Other Breathing Changes
   Any changes to your cat’s respiratory system such as, sounds, from coughing, to an increase in the number of breathes, to the sound of more shallow breathing, should be taken seriously. Respiratory issues can be a symptom of tumors, parasites, respiratory disease, or exposure to toxins.
9. Discharge From the Eyes Or Nose
   Discharge from the eyes or nose, particularly when combined with shortness of breath, panting or sneezing, can be a sign of a respiratory infection. These infections can progress quickly if left untreated.
10. After Any Major Trauma or Fighting With Another Cat
    If your cat is struck by a car, tangles with another animal, or otherwise experiences trauma, a visit to the veterinarian is in order. Even if your pet seems fine, he may have internal injuries or wounds hidden beneath his fur. A quick trip to the veterinarian for a check-up can is worth the time, to reduce the risk of infection or other complications later on.

If your cat experiences any of the conditions listed above, call Town & Country Veterinarians and Pet Resort or another animal hospital for an appointment. Prompt medical condition can improve the outcome of many illnesses, not to mention help your cat feel better as quickly as possible.