Common Cat Illnesses: What You Should Know
You must be ready if you own cats or are considering adding one of these fluffy felines to your family. For their required care, there are numerous significant aspects to think about and things to keep in mind. Knowing the diseases kids may contract is among the most crucial information.
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The most widespread illnesses affecting cats are described in this AnimalWised article. Keep in mind that the easiest method to avoid any of these illnesses is to go to veterinary checkups when necessary
the most typical cat fatalities illnesses
Cats can develop a variety of illnesses, some of which are more serious than others, just like any other living thing. In the case of cats, it turns out that the vast majority of these illnesses are brought on by various viruses. Thankfully, many immunizations can be avoided with appropriate prophylaxis.
The following are the most prevalent major ailments that affect cats:
Feline leukemia:
Leukemia is a cancerous virus that affects cats and is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids. It is caused by an oncovirus. For instance, when cats fight, there is typically a bleeding wound, so when they groom and lick one another, they are exposed to other cats’ saliva.
Similar to this, if a cat uses a shared litterbox, they could come in contact with other cats’ pee and waste. A mother who is infected and breastfeeds her child risks spreading the virus through her milk. Small cats and young kittens are typically affected by this illness. Large cat populations, such as breeding sites and street colonies, frequently experience it. Due to the ease of transmission and the amount of the harm it causes, which includes death, it is one of the most deadly infections. The diseased cat develops tumors in several organs, which might cause anorexia, weight loss, anemia, depression, and enlarged ganglia, among other symptoms.
The feline disease panleucopenia felina is brought on by a parvovirus that is connected to the canine parvovirus in some way. It is also known as infectious gastroenteritis, enteritis, and feline distemper. Contact with the bodily fluids of an infected cat spreads the infection. Fever, followed by hypothermia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, dehydration, and anorexia are some of its most typical symptoms. Blood tests reveal a large drop in leukocytes and/or white blood cells. Young cats and kittens are more seriously impacted by this viral illness. Depending on the severity of the illness and the condition of the sick cat, the mainstays of the treatment include intravenous hydration and antibiotics. Because this illness is fatal, we must immediately separate any victims from healthy cats.
A frequent respiratory illness in cats called feline pneumonitis is brought on by germs that spread through bodily fluids and secretions. Antibiotics, eye washing, rest, a high-carb diet, and serum fluid therapy are all used as treatments. Keep your cat’s vaccinations current and steer clear of potentially infectious cats to avoid issues. To avoid complications and guarantee the welfare of your feline pet, it is imperative to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
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Lentivirus is the virus that causes feline immunodeficiency, which is a condition. This illness is also referred to as feline AIDS. Since it is spread through bites, transmission typically occurs during fights and throughout the reproductive period. Adult cats who are not sterilized are severely impacted. A significant immune system loss and opportunistic secondary diseases are the indications that will lead us to suspect this disease. Usually, it is one of these subsequent illnesses that leads to the cat’s demise. Although we are trying to produce a viable vaccination, there are cats that become resistant to this illness from frequently coming into contact with sick ones.
This condition is known as infectious peritonitis. A coronavirus, which typically affects young cats and occasionally older individuals, is the disease’s culprit.
Rabies:
This virus-based illness, which affects humans as well as other mammalian species, is quite common around the world and is considered a zoonosis. It is transmitted from one person to another through the saliva contaminated by the bite of an infected animal. Since accurate immunization is available and required in many nations, it is fortunately eradicated or at least managed in many parts of the world.
more typical health issues with domestic cats
We discussed the most severe main illnesses in the previous section, but we also want to discuss additional health issues and ailments that are widespread and crucial for cat owners to be aware of:
Allergies.
Like it happens to humans, cats can develop allergies that have many different causes. For more information on a hypoallergenic diet for cats with food allergies, go to this AnimalWised article.
Conjunctivitis.
Cats’ fragile eyes make them susceptible to conjunctivitis. Read more on AnimalWised about conjunctivitis.
illness of the gums.
It is typical for senior cats to have this condition in their mouths, and if it is not treated in a timely manner, it can be fatal.
Otitis.
Otitis is one of the most often treated medical conditions in cats as well as being quite common in dogs.
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Overweight and obesity.
These days, household cats frequently struggle with obesity. Learn more about preventing feline obesity.
Colds.
Cats are also prone to the common cold, even if it is just brought on by a draft of air. If you suspect that your cat has a cold, you might check the home cures for the condition in this article.
Poisoning. Cat poisoning is more widespread than you might realize and poses a major threat to your cat’s health. Learn everything there is to know about cat poisoning, including signs and first aid.
Regular prevention of cat diseases is crucial for preventing them. Visit your veterinarian regularly and follow the vaccination schedule to prevent common diseases. Maintain internal and external deworming using appropriate products for cats. Avoid using products not specifically designed for cats, as they may intoxicate them accidentally. Additionally, avoid contacting unfamiliar cats, especially if their appearance makes you sceptical about their health status.
