Cats are much harder to diagnose when they’re sick compared to dogs, and most of the time, cat owners don't notice the signs.
1. Observe where your cat likes to stay.
You should be more attentive if they are constantly hiding in a corner. As natural hunters, when they feel unwell, they tend to hide in a safe spot.
2. Gently press your cat's belly.
This is a basic way to check their intestines. Normally, a cat's belly should feel soft. If your cat’s stool has decreased when cleaning the litter box, they might have swallowed a foreign object, or it could indicate mild intestinal blockage. To prevent this, keep small items like rubber bands and yarn out of reach, and a small amount of lactulose can also help with bowel movements.
3. Regularly check your cat's teeth.
Look for signs of tartar or missing teeth. Cats have about 26 baby teeth, which are replaced by 30 permanent teeth from 4 to 6 months of age. The best way to prevent tartar buildup is by minimizing snacks and treats. Dry food helps clean teeth, but too many treats can lead to tartar formation.
4. Directly check your cat's gums, paw pads, and nose for colour.
This is a straightforward way to check for anemia. Normally, these areas should have a healthy pink colour. If your cat is anemic, these areas will appear pale, which is easy to spot. Nutritional anemia can be managed with a portion of high-quality cat food. However, for more severe cases like heart-related anemia, toxic anemia, or hemolytic anemia, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.
5. Observe your cat's eating habits.
Appetite is a crucial indicator of health. Kittens should consume 20-25g of food per kg of body weight, while adult cats should consume 15-20g per kg. If your cat's intake is significantly lower than this and they have an abnormal temperature, it could be a sign of illness, and they should see a vet. Overeating can also be problematic, as it may indicate poor-quality food that doesn’t meet their nutritional needs.
6. Check your cat’s stool.
If your cat's stool has a particularly strong odor or they are frequently passing gas, this may suggest an imbalance in gut bacteria. You can add probiotics to their diet or opt for functional cat food to help. Cats such as Ragdolls, Devons, and Sphynxes, which tend to have more sensitive stomachs, may benefit from specialized diets.
7. Monitor the size of urine clumps.
If the urine clumps are smaller than usual or your cat is urinating too frequently, it’s a cause for concern. This is particularly important for male cats, as they are more prone to urinary tract issues. Early detection is crucial to prevent more serious problems like urinary stones.
8. Observe any discharge.
Check for increased discharge from the eyes or nose, frequent sneezing, and lethargy. If these symptoms appear, it’s best to schedule a respiratory check-up. Also, inspect the inside of your cat’s front paws, as cats use them to clean their face. Keeping this area clean can also prevent respiratory issues. Lactoferrin in food is a great way to boost your cat’s immune system.
9. Check your cat’s fur.
Healthy cats have shiny, thick fur. If your cat’s fur is thinning and feels dry, it may be a sign of malnutrition. Adding fish-based food can help improve their coat.
10. Watch for bad breath and excessive tear stains.
Both are signs that your cat’s lysozyme levels are low, which indicates a suboptimal health state.
Lastly, regularly inspect the area between your cat’s claws and paws.
This area should normally be clean, but if it turns black, it could indicate a Malassezia yeast infection, often linked to poor litter quality. Frequent trimming of the fur around the paws can also contribute to this issue. While trimming excess fur can help prevent slipping, it’s best to trim only the excess rather than shaving all the fur off, as it helps protect the paws.
Here are 10 helpful methods to check your cat's health at home. We hope this information is helpful. If your cat shows severe symptoms or if you have any significant concerns, please consult a veterinarian promptly.
*This article is an original creation by FUN PET STORE. If you wish to repost or share it, please ensure that the source is properly credited.*
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