10 Early Warning Signs That Your Cat Is Sick—And What to Do Next

As pet owners, we always want the best for our furry friends. They’re a part of our family, and it can be heartbreaking to witness them suffer. It can be difficult to determine when your cat is feeling unwell, though. Cats are experts at hiding their symptoms, and it’s up to us to pay attention and recognize the warning signs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the 10 early warning signs that your cat is sick, and what to do next.

Changes in appetite: If your cat suddenly stops eating or drinking, it can be a sign of an underlying health issue. It’s important to monitor your cat’s eating habits, as a loss of appetite can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Take your cat to the vet if they’ve gone more than a day without eating or drinking.

Vomiting or diarrhea: If your cat is vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, it can be a sign of an infection or stomach issue. It’s important to monitor how often this is happening and the consistency of their stool. If it persists for more than a day or two, take them to the vet.

Urinating outside the litter box: If your cat begins to urinate outside the litter box, it may be an indication of a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or bladder issues. Bring your cat to the vet to have them checked out.

Lethargy or lack of energy: If your cat seems to be sleeping all day or not playing with their toys like usual, it can be a sign that something is wrong. Observe their behavior and take note of any unusual changes in energy levels, as it could indicate a more serious health issue.

Bad breath or drooling: If your cat has bad breath or is drooling excessively, it can indicate dental issues such as gum disease or tooth decay. Bring your cat to the vet to have their teeth examined.

Changes in grooming habits: If your cat is grooming excessively or not grooming at all, it can indicate an underlying medical issue. Keep an eye on their grooming habits and take note of any changes.

Changes in weight: If your cat suddenly gains or loses weight, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Monitor their weight and take note of any changes in their appetite or exercise habits.

Coughing or wheezing: If your cat is coughing or wheezing, it could signify respiratory issues such as asthma or bronchitis. Take your cat to the vet to have them examined.

Unusual behaviors: If your cat is displaying unusual behaviors such as hiding, aggression, or excessive meowing, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Observe their behavior and take note of any changes.

Eye or nose discharge: If your cat has eye or nose discharge, it could be an indication of an upper respiratory infection or other health issue. Bring your cat to the vet to have them examined and treated.

As pet owners, we want our cats to live long and healthy lives. By being aware of these 10 early warning signs, we can help our cats receive the proper care they need before their symptoms worsen. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to bring your cat to the vet for a check-up. Your furry friend will thank you!