Cats have a reputation for being independent and self-sufficient creatures, but like all pets, they can get sick. As a cat owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs that your pet might be unwell and what options you have to keep them happy and healthy. If you become aware of any of the following signs in your cat, take notice.

1. Change in Appetite

If your cat suddenly stops eating or begins eating more than usual, it can be a sign that something is wrong. Possible reasons may be dental issues, digestive issues, or even something more serious like cancer. For example, dental issues can make it painful for a cat to eat hard food, causing them to lose their appetite. On the other hand, if your cat is eating much more than normal, it could be a sign of endocrine dysfunction. Or in some cases, like gastrointestinal problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, there can be both over-eating and under-eating at different stages of illness.

2. Change in Behavior

Abnormal hiding is a tell-tail sign your cat isn’t feeling well. Changes in activity levels, i.e. if your cat becomes more lethargic or less active than usual, is another sign that something is off. Cats who are feeling pain or discomfort may sleep more, move less, and be less interested in play or interaction with their owners. Additionally, if your cat becomes more vocal or start displaying aggression, it could be an indication of an underlying health problem. Cats will exhibit these changes in behavior to express their discomfort and/or pain.

3. Change in Grooming

Cats are fastidious groomers, so if you notice your cat has stopped grooming itself or has a matted coat, it could indicate they’re feeling ill. Cats who are sick may not have the energy or motivation to groom themselves, leading to a dirty and matted coat.

4. Change in Litter Box Habits

If your cat starts to urinate or defecate outside of the litter box, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or another health issue. Cats with urinary tract infections may associate the litter box with pain, leading to an avoidance of the box. Additionally, if a cat has a gastrointestinal issue, it may cause them to have diarrhea or constipation, which can also lead to an aversion to the litter box.

5. Change in Appearance

If you notice any lumps, bumps, or changes in your cat’s coat, such as hair loss, it could be a sign of a serious health problem. This can indicate a more serious condition such as cancer, and it’s a good idea to have your cat examined by your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Contact Your Veterinarian

It is important to note that these signs can be caused by many different things and in some cases, it may be something minor. Introducing a new pet into the home or a change of environment may cause your cat’s behavior to change temporarily. However, if you notice a change in appetite, behavior, grooming, habits, or appearance, it’s better to be on the safe side and consult with your veterinarian about your cat’s health.

Cats, like all animals, can be prone to certain diseases. If you’re a cat parent, it’s important to be aware of the most common diseases in cats and learn how to spot and prevent them. When ill, your feline companion may exhibit signs of stress, such as changes in weight, behavior, and appearance. By understanding some of the common health issues that can affect cats, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your cat stays healthy.

Upper respiratory infections

Cats are prone to upper respiratory infections, which are caused by viruses, such as feline herpesvirus and calicivirus and can sometimes have secondary bacterial infections. These infections can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and eye discharge. Upper respiratory infections are highly contagious, so it’s important to keep your cat isolated from other pets and animals if they are showing symptoms. Veterinarians can best identify and recommend treatments that can help.

Dental disease

Just like humans, cats can also suffer from dental disease. This can lead to tooth decay and loss, bad breath, and even heart and kidney problems. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help prevent dental disease and keep your cat’s pearly whites healthy.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that typically affects older cats. It is caused by an overactive thyroid gland which causes the body’s metabolism to speed up, resulting in weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and radioactive iodine therapy.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a common disease in felines, and is characterized by a deficiency in insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Symptoms of diabetes may present as increased thirst, increased urination, and weight loss. In most cases, this disease can be managed by insulin injections and dietary management.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

This disease is caused by a virus and can be transmitted through close contact with other cats. Symptoms are wide and vairied, and can include changes in blood counts and increased susceptibility to other infections and certain types of cancer. Testing can be done easily by your veterinarian who can also recommend preventive measures (i.e. vaccination).

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

FIV is caused by a virus that attacks a cat’s immune system. This virus can be transmitted through bites and scratches. Lethargy, weight loss, and susceptibility to infection can all be symptoms of FIV. There is no cure, but early detection and management can help prolong your cat’s life.

Prevention

It’s important to note that regular check-ups and vaccinations can help prevent many of these diseases. If your cat is showing any of the above symptoms or showing other signs that they are unwell, it’s a good idea to have them checked out by your veterinarian, who can administer proper diagnosis and treatment.

Join us for a pet-friendly day at our new location at Phillips Creek!

Join us for a fun-filled day at our Valentine’s Day Grand Opening event! Bring your furry friends and enjoy a variety of activities including a themed photobooth, the coolest vintage car-bar serving beer and cocktails, exciting games, and chances to win great prizes. Treat your pets to some delicious treats from the Pet Treat Truck while you mingle with our team and check out our clinic!

Date & Time:
Sat, December 17, 2022
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST

Location:
CityVet-Phillips Creek
415 Lebanon Rd
Frisco, TX 75036

This holiday season, CityVet is partnering with local rescues and shelters to extend a paw and help feed hungry pets. From now until December 18th, CityVet is accepting unopened dry or wet dog and cat food at select CityVet locations near you.

Each of our amazing Doctors of Veterinary Medicine at each location has selected a local charity or shelter that is near and dear to their hearts. Through this initiative, anyone is able to give back and foster deep relationships with the local communities that mean the most to them.

Donation boxes are open at select CityVet and RuffIt locations. Find your location below and check out one of the many local organizations our team is giving back to this holiday season.

Below is a list of CityVet locations and their chosen corresponding charities.

Join us for this holiday event and snap a photo of your pet with Santa!

Explore our clinic and meet our team! Bring your pet to take a photo with Santa to have a holiday keepsake. There will be tons of fun for your pet, including holiday treats and paw print ornaments. Indulge in our hot cocoa bar and walk away with a goodie bag!

Date & Time:
Sat, December 17, 2022
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST

Location:
CityVet-Mansfield
3311 E Broad St Suite 109
Mansfield, TX 76063

Explore our clinic and meet our team! Bring your pet to take a photo with Santa to have a holiday keepsake. There will be tons of fun for your pet, including holiday treats and presents. Indulge in our hot cocoa bar and walk away with an ornament and a goodie bag!

Date & Time:
Sat, December 17, 2022
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM CST

Location:
CityVet-Alliance
9633 N Fwy
Fort Worth, TX 76177

Join us for a PET-FRIENDLY fun day at our Highland Ranch grand opening! on Saturday, November 16th from 12pm – 3pm.

Explore our clinic and meet our team! There will be tasty fall treats, such as popcorn and cotton candy. Bring the whole family and enjoy carnival games, face painting, balloon animals, a magic show, and more! At the end of the carnival, walk away with some prizes and a goodie bag.

Date & Time:
Sat, November 12, 2022
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM MST

Location:
CityVet Highlands Ranch
9567 S University Blvd a101
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126

The loud “booms,” “pops,” and “screams” of fireworks are sure to delight people around the nation this 4th of July. While fireworks can be a literal blast for humans and their families, they can be exceptionally overwhelming and anxiety-inducing for our pets. During firework shows, the sounds and bright flashes can cause many pets to become so anxious they run away from their familiar environments. So how do you keep pets safe during fireworks? You can prepare them and your home for firework festivities this holiday.

Keep Your Pets Indoors

The sounds and sights on the 4th of July can cause your pet to bolt. In stressful situations, your pet may not respond to strangers’ calls or even calls from you, a familiar face. For this reason, it’s a good idea to keep your pets indoors when there is a risk of a firework show near you. Shut doggy doors and keep an eye on your pet in the yard, as unfamiliar booms can frighten them and cause them to try to escape.

Provide a Secure Space 

There should be a spot in your home where your pet feels safe and secure. This could be a crate, pet carrier, or even a pallet in a quiet room such as a closet. If your crate is near a window, try moving it to an interior room without any windows for the duration of the holiday. Anxiety vests may work for some pets or having them snuggle under a weighted blanket.

Give Your Pets Distractions

Before the festivities begin, take your pet on a long walk or engage them with a game of fetch. Physical activity will tire them out and lessen the likelihood of anxiety occurring during the stressful event. During a loud show, try giving your pet a new toy or chew to keep them occupied and their mind off the outside noise. You can also turn on the television or soothing music to drown out the firework sounds.

Update Their Information

In the event that your pet escapes unexpectedly, the likelihood of their return is higher when they are wearing updated tags and are microchipped. Pets should wear ID tags indoors and out, and their microchip information should be updated to their current address and owner. Talk to your vet about microchipping your pet.

Talk to Your Veterinarian

If you’re worried your pet might become overly stressed during a firework show, talk to your veterinarian about the possibility of calming medication. Pet owners commonly use medication to lessen anxiety in high-strung pets when they are in a stressful situation, such as when experiencing separation anxiety. Remember, every pet is unique and will react to medications differently. Ensure you clear it with your veterinarian before administering any kind of medication to your pet.