Feline 9-1-1: Identifying Signs That Your Cat Is Sick

Cat owners are typically highly attuned to the needs and desires of their pet cats. After all, when they’re looking and feeling their absolute best, it’s obvious to all. When they aren’t in tip-top shape, however, they might try to hide symptoms (and they’re pretty successful at this, at least for a time). When you have the ability to know when your cat is sick, you can intervene immediately. Since time is of the essence in most feline ailments, a quick assessment and action could save a cat’s life.
Self-Preservation is Key
One of the first signs that your cat is sick is a sudden, uncharacteristic shift toward hiding or reclusiveness. This is an inherited trait from their wild ancestors. If they appear weak, they’ll be an easy target for predators. Of course, today’s domesticated felines don’t have to worry so much about that, but they are motivated to elude the notice of their owners.
Sure, they could just be in a bad mood or enduring an “oof day,” but if a sudden dependence on the dark back corner of an undisturbed closet is their new hang out, it’s a good idea to have them examined.
Bad Hair Day
Likewise, any changes in your cat’s appearance should be noted. They are fastidious self-groomers, and enjoy looking and feeling their best. A greasy, unkempt coat should signal that they need help, and fast. You might also see matted fur, a dull-looking appearance to the coat, increased dandruff, or clumps of loose fur.
Take a look at their body language, as well. Any hunched over behaviors signal pain or discomfort. The position of their head (if it’s tilted), ears, or tail can clue you into what’s going on.
The Opposite of Reclusive
Sometimes, cats will talk more when they’re feeling unwell. In this case, a sharp increase of vocalization can trigger more questions about their health. A normally chatty cat may tend to swing toward silence when ill.
Increased meowing or crying out can be linked to gastrointestinal distress, neurological issues, and other issues that need medical intervention.
Kitchen Habits
If your cat becomes suddenly thirsty, and cannot quench their thirst even after repeated visits to the water bowl, they could be sick. Diabetes or thyroid issues can cause excessive thirst, most commonly in older cats. On the other hand, few or no visits to the water bowl can spell trouble if a cat becomes dehydrated. Always monitor how much they eat and drink every day, and what they deposit in their litter box for more clues.
Other problems, like refusal to eat, vomiting, or diarrhea need to be addressed right away. Common issues, including cancer, periodontal disease, liver disease, infection, and GI obstruction require an early diagnosis to achieve an effective treatment.
When Your Cat Is Sick
Cat Care of Vinings is committed to providing compassionate feline care. The more we know about what’s happening inside a cat’s numerous body systems, we can determine the best course of action. If you ever have any doubts about whether or not your cat is sick, it’s better to investigate than wait.
Please call us at (404) 792-0700 with additional questions or concerns. We’re always here for your cat!
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I have had cats my whole life and have used many veterinarians over the years. Cat Care of Vinings provides the best care I have ever received for my 'kids' - cats
The quality of treatment and unbelievable care with which my kitten was treated are priceless to me especially as kitten moves into her later years. I wouldn’t take her anywhere else.
…more information than the previous…places… Also,…we did not feel like they were pressuring us into paying for expensive procedures that may or may not work… [They] actually showed care and concern for our kitty…
…We must say that Dr. Jennifer Palmer…is the BEST. Her medical experience, bedside manner, candor, and quest for knowledge…is immeasurable. She goes beyond the call of duty to ‘reach-out’ for answers and health options you may not be aware of.
Knowledgeable, caring vets and a very supportive team. Highly recommended based on my personal experiences…
Where do I begin? There are so many positives about Cat Care of Vinings…this entire practice is on a whole other level… The environment is relaxing and the staff are comforting and supportive.
I am extremely fortunate to have taken her to Cat Care of Vinings… They take time to listen…answer questions, offer guidance…compassion, and give frequent and welcome updates.
At Cat Care of Vinings, every person…demonstrated care. Everything was well explained… I received phone calls updating me on his progress and asking how he was after I took him home. They are compassionate and knowledgeable about cats and that is what really matters.
The veterinarians and staff here are very professional, caring and thorough (they check for things other vet clinics don’t). They genuinely love their clients (i.e. cats)…
CCV is a warm, quiet environment that helps my nervous cat feel more comfortable… The vet techs and office staff are skilled, helpful and friendly. A+
I was shocked at how little we knew even after more than a decade of cat ownership and regular vet visits. I really can't say enough about how thrilled we are with Dr. Palmer and Cat Care of Vinings. We just feel so fortunate to have you in our lives and are most grateful. Thank you all for all that you do! :-)
Cat Care is exactly what it says. The whole office is geared toward all felines… There are cat trees, and cat friendly furniture throughout. But is what is more important is the feline expertise…
This veterinary clinic changed my cat's entire life…[he had] severe dental problems… I was reluctant to…do the procedures… I cannot stress how happy I am… Everyone treats the cats with love and care, and they treat the people with respect and offer great advice.
The staff are always welcoming and hospitable. Doctors will go out of their way to make sure your cat is taken care of and comfortable. They always return your calls and even call to check up on your cat after an appointment.
Dr. Michael Friedlander is experienced, capable, kind, and caring with my cat and with me. Her staff is also excellent. Besides the excellent care for my cat, Michael also educated me on what I need to do to take care of my cat, such as vaccinations and heart worm prevention. This is a top notch feline veterinary hospital with a top notch staff!
The Vets have taken time to know and understand both my kitties. All clinic staff are caring, knowledgeable, and generally first rate.
These people love your pet almost as much as you do… This seems less like a business and more like a labor of love. [They]…always keep you in the loop of what is happening…and put both you and your pet at ease…providing first rate care for you cat.