Prevent is better than cure.
Maybe you heard this word somewhere. Same goes to your pet cat health.
If you want to keep them healthy, you must always alert to their
behaviours. Maybe it will give you some sign about what is their body
going on. Wether it healthy or not. This is some subtle sign that your cat may be sick.
Changes in interactions:
A previously clingy cat acting uncharacteristically aloof, or an independent
cat transforming into “Velcro kitty” are examples.
Changes in activity: A
decrease or increase in activity, and change in the cat’s daily routine are red
flags — of arthritis, for example, which is far more common in cats than
previously thought. So a cat who jumps on furniture less often is a potential
sign.
Changes in chewing or eating habits: Contrary to popular belief, most cats are not finicky eaters. Look for
changes, an increase or decrease, in a cat’s food intake. Eating less can
signify several disorders, including dental
problems. Increased appetite may mean diabetes or hyperthyroidism.
Changes in water intake:
Drinking more or less can indicate a cat health problem, such as diabetes or kidney
disease.
Unexpected weight loss or weight gain: Weight doesn’t always go up or down with a change in appetite. Cats
with diabetes or hyperthyroidism, for example, may lose weight even if they eat
more.
Bad breath: If those
pearly whites don’t smell sweet as a daisy, something may be rotten in the
mouth, or perhaps kidney disease or a digestive disorder.
Changes in grooming habits: Fastidious groomers letting themselves go — even just a bit — is a
sure sign of potential illness. Over-grooming may be related to stress, pain or
allergies.
Changes in sleeping habits: From catnapping more to awaking in the middle of the night, the
explanation may be pain and/or illness, perhaps associated with aging.
Changes in vocalization:
Wallflowers that begin to offer sermons or cat howling overnight may be doing
so as a result of a medical condition. Possible explanations include
hyperthyroidism, hypertension (high blood pressure) or anxiety.
Signs of stress: Cats
dislike changes more than anything. Changes in your family’s schedule, new pets
coming or going, or even rearranging the furniture can cause stress. A cat that
isn’t feeling well may be anxious as a result. Geriatric cats may be especially
prone to stress. Anxious cats might exhibit behavioral changes (such as missing
the litter box). Anxiety requires the same professional attention as diabetes
or a heart condition.
Twice-annual exams for preventative care make sense,
particularly since cats age far faster than people. If you your cat or your
cats have not seen the veterinarian in six months, I suggest you make an
appointment, even if your cats seem healthy. It’s the best investment you can
make.