Understanding when your cat is unwell or in pain can be tricky because cats are notorious for being experts at hiding discomfort. It’s part of their survival instinct!
As pet owners, it’s deeply upsetting when a cat starts showing clear signs of distress, as this often means the issue has already progressed.
Key Indicators That Your Kitty Is Unwell
There are several key indicators to watch for that might suggest your feline friend isn’t feeling their best. Knowing what to look for can help you catch problems early and keep your kitty as happy and healthy as possible.
There are several key indicators to watch for that may suggest your cat is not feeling well or is in pain
Behavioural Signs
- Lethargy: If your cat is unusually tired, less playful, or hiding more than usual.
- Behavioural Shifts: Uncharacteristic aggression, withdrawal, or increased vocalisation.
- Excessive Grooming or Lack of Grooming: Over-grooming or neglecting grooming can suggest stress, pain, or health concerns.
Appetite and Weight Changes
- Changes in Appetite: A sudden loss of appetite or excessive eating can be a sign of an underlying issue.
- Weight Loss or Weight Gain: Either extreme can be a red flag for conditions like thyroid issues, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders.
Digestive and Litter Box Habits
- Changes in Litter Box Habits: Any changes in urination or defecation habits, such as straining, accidents outside the litter box, or unusually frequent trips.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea: Occasional hairballs are normal, but frequent vomiting or diarrhoea isn’t.
Physical Signs of Pain or Discomfort
- Visible Pain: If your cat is limping, vocalising when touched, or having difficulty moving, they may be in pain.
- Changes in Coat Condition: A dull, dry, or patchy coat could indicate nutritional deficiencies, a skin condition, or other health issues.
Getting Professional Assistance
Since cats are masters of disguise, regular vet visits become even more important. Our team can often spot things your cat might be trying to hide and take a proactive approach to help nip any issues in the bud. Prevention is always the best medicine!
As a Gold Standard Accredited Cat Friendly Clinic, we specialise in feline care and keeping your kitty comfortable and stress-free during visits.
The Happy Paws Vet Clinic team in Coombabah are here to help. Get in touch to book a health check up for your kitty-cat.
