Cats are independent creatures that enjoy their alone time, so deciphering between your cat’s normal behavior and a health issue might be challenging. Understanding the signs and symptoms of a cat illness is essential so you can act quickly before the condition worsens. Bacteria cause diseases that affect cats from dental plaque build-up to more severe ailments like cancers.
You can take many steps to reduce the onset of diseases, like grooming and daily hygiene check-ups. Use products like pet grooming wipes or cat hot spot anti-itch spray as a preventative treatment. They remove dirt that carries bacteria, causing acne, hot spots, and various cat illnesses. Read on to learn more about the nine common cat diseases that may afflict your cat.
What Are The Most Common Cat Diseases?
The most common diseases in cats include but are not limited to:
- Diabetes
- Dental Disease
- Ringworms
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FELV)
- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
- Upper Respiratory Infections
- Cancer
- Kidney Disease
- Heartworms
1. Diabetes
Diabetes happens when cats do not produce insulin which breaks down sugar. As a result, glucose (sugar) levels increase, leading to high blood sugar. In cats, high blood sugar causes discomfort and abnormal behavior. Look out for these signs of hyperglycemia in cats:
- Depression
- Thirst
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
Causes of hyperglycemia in cats include stress-inducing situations, medication, and a high glucose diet. If left untreated, diabetes can cause long-term health issues for your feline. The best way to manage diabetes is through a specific diet and speaking to your veterinarian about treatment options.
2. Cat Dental Disease
Based on research from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, most cats four years or older live with some form of dental disease or tooth decay. You can take measures to prevent dental degradation, which can lead to tooth loss or painful mouth infections. The most common dental disorders cats suffer from include:
- Gingivitis: inflamed, swollen, and painful gums from plaque build-up.
- Periodontitis: an irreversible condition that comes from untreated gingivitis. This leads to tissue breakdown and, eventually, tooth loss.
- Tooth resorption: when the tooth structure breaks down from the inside out, degrading and leading to tooth loss. The cause of tooth resorption is currently unknown.
