Even though your cat keeps herself immaculately clean, there are some common diseases that find ways to infect your kitty. A number of viruses and bacteria keep lurking to multiply and as soon as they find the host, their activity surges in leaps and bounds. This is why it is important to know what problems your kitty can face so you can be prepared for them in advance. Or at least, know when to take actions.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)
This disease usually attacks cats that are either unfit, overweight or are on a dry diet. Some kind of infection, blockage of the track, bladder stones or cancer can be the possible causes of this disease in which the cat feels stressed out to pass urine or is not able to empty its bladder completely. In case, you see your cat strained while peeing or eliminates bloody/cloudy urine, feels lethargic and uncomfortable, you must get the kitty checked up by the vet.
Fleas
Fleas are quite a common problem in cats. These parasites bite and suck blood, leave their saliva on the skin which causes constant itching, hair loss and discomfort. When the infestation is prolonged, it can even lead to anemia leading to a life-threatening condition. The infestation can, however, be treated with topical treatments or oral tablets.
Intestinal Worms
Intestinal worms suck nutrition from the body and leave the host weak and undernourished even when it is fed proper food. These worms cause blockage of the intestines and lead to stomach upsets. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and weakness are the signs to watch out for worm infection.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Have you come across a cat that sneezes a lot and has a pus-like booger in the corners of the eyes? Watch out, that poor cat must be suffering from Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. It is a viral and bacterial infection that spreads through contact with the saliva or eye/nose discharge of the infected cat. Symptoms generally include – coughing, sneezing, fever, poor appetite, and lethargy.
Eye Infection
Cataracts, Glaucoma, conjunctivitis, viruses, inflammation and corneal ulcers are some serious eye diseases that can lead to partial or complete blindness in cats if not addressed quickly. A cat with any of the aforementioned disease would show symptoms like – squinting, discharge in the corner of the eyes, water in the eyes and frequent pawing near the eye area. Do not overlook the symptoms if your cat shows any of the above signals as it is a matter of your cat’s eye sight. Immediate treatment with antibiotics can prevent further complications and complete blindness.