Signs Your Cat Needs to Go to the Vet

Our feline friends are very mysterious little furballs. We may never sort out why Fluffy can’t resist jumping into boxes, or why she is so obsessed with catnip. However, we do know that kitties can be very secretive. This can be cute, but it can also backfire, as it can be hard to tell if Fluffy is sick. Here, a Huntersville, NC vet lists some warning signs to look for.

Hiding

Some cats are naturally shy. You also probably don’t need to worry if your kitty hides under the bed when your brother brings his dog over. However, Fluffy should emerge when it’s time for her next meal. If your kitty just doesn’t want to leave her hiding spot, she could be sick.

Poor Grooming

Cats are very clean, which is one of the many reasons they make such great pets. If Fluffy isn’t feeling well, she may not keep up with her usual beauty regimen. Before long, you’ll notice her coat starting to look greasy or frizzy.

Change Of Appetite/Thirst

Cats can be finicky, but if your pet just doesn’t like what you offered her, she should meow to demand something different. If Fluffy isn’t interested in food whatsoever, there may be something more going on.

Uncharacteristic Behavior

Note that we said uncharacteristic rather than unusual. If our patients came in every time they did something odd, our waiting room would be overflowing with kitties 24/7! What you want to watch for are things that are outside of Fluffy’s typical behavior. Some examples of this include a shy cat suddenly demanding attention; a loud, friendly cat withdrawing; and a normally quiet cat that is loudly yowling.

Respiratory Issues

Respiratory issues can make cats very sick, very fast, and can even be deadly! Coughing, wheezing, gasping, and shortness of breath are all signs that something is wrong.

Vomiting/Diarrhea

Hairballs are not uncommon in cats. However, if Fluffy is throwing up excessively or violently and/or dry heaving, contact your vet right away.

Litterbox Woes

Changing the litterbox may not be much fun, but it can be useful. Keep an eye out for changes in the color, smell, odor, or texture of your kitty’s waste.

If you notice any of these warning signs, or any other unusual behavario, contact us, your Huntersville, NC animal clinic. We’re here to help!