4 Signs Your Cat May Need to go to the Vet - #Cat2VetDay

Today, August 22, is Take Your Cat to the Vet Day. The CATalyst Council, American Association of Feline Practitioners, The International Cat Association the Cat Fanciers' Association and Royal Canin are joining forces to show support for cat health and wellness by urging more attention to preventive veterinary care for cats. 

It’s a fact that cats receive less routine veterinary care than dogs. In a 2013 Bayer AAFP study, researchers found that 52 percent of cats in the U.S. had not been taken to the vet in the past year for necessary checkups. They also found that only half as many cats receive annual exams as dogs. And according to the U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) in 2012, 36.1 million households owned cats at that time, with the estimated number of pet cats being 74.1 million.This same sourcebook also points out that only 55% of cat owners took their cats to the vet, vs. 81% of dog owners. And Banfield reports that in their more than 900 veterinary hospitals, only one cat is seen by a veterinarian for every five dogs, despite many studies reporting that there are nearly eight million more pet cats than dogs in the U.S. 

These statistics are disturbing. That’s why the CATalyst Council and their partners are supporting Take Your Cat to the Vet day; to increase awareness of the importance of routine veterinary care and to encourage cat owners to make appointments for their feline family members to be seen by a veterinarian.  

Why aren’t cat owners taking their cats to the vet? According to Jane Brunt, DVM, Executive Director of the CATalyst Council and Founder of the American Animal Hospital Association-accredited Cat Hospital At Towson (the first feline-exclusive veterinary hospital in Maryland), there are three common obstacles: cost, the stress of actually getting to the vet, and the belief that cats don’t need veterinary care as much as dogs. I can relate to some of these points, and I’m sure many reading this article can as well. 

“It’s not that cats are inherently healthier than dogs,” says Dr.Brunt. “It’s that they are stoic about their symptoms, making it nearly impossible for even the most observant pet owner to recognize signs of potential problems.” I’ve spoken to many cat owners over the years who are unsure what type of symptoms would necessitate a vet visit. In order to educate cat owners to be more aware of the signs of illness in their furry companions, I’ve put together a list of four signs your cat may need to go to the vet. (Disclaimer: I advocate for routine veterinary care. However, something could occur between regular checkups that every cat owner should be aware of.) 

4 Signs Your Cat May Need To Go To The Vet

Your Cat’s Eating/Drinking Habits Have Changed

Many people may think it’s not such an urgent matter if their cat stops eating. They’ll eat when they’re hungry, right? Not so true. When a cat loses their appetite and stops eating it can lead to a serious, life-threatening illness known as hepatic lipidosis (also known as fatty liver disease). Loss of appetite can be a sign of a medical condition that warrants immediate attention. Similarly, if your cat increases their water intake or stops drinking altogether this could be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes or hypothyroidism. 

Your Cat is Coughing/Sneezing or has Difficulty Breathing

Cats are prone to colds just like we humans are. If your cat has a runny nose, frequently sneezes or coughs or has crust-rimmed eyes, it could be a cold -- or something much more serious. It’s a good idea to get your cat checked by a vet. Lola has chronic sinusitis and often has a runny nose and sneezes. I must be diligent to watch her appetite and activity level so I can gauge when a vet visit may be necessary. I’ve also worked closely with my vet to learn what is “normal” for her and when I should be alarmed. If at any time your cat is panting, making loud noises, coughing, wheezing, or generally struggling when trying to breathe, you should take them to your vet or the emergency vet immediately. This could lead to a life threatening emergency and it’ better to be safe. 

Your Cat is Vomiting or has Diarrhea 

Most cats vomit from time to time. Lexy struggles with hairballs and it’s not unusual for her to vomit once a week. Lola very rarely vomits but will do so when she has eaten too quickly. Likewise, a cat may have a loose stool from time to time. However, if either of these persist, your cat needs to be seen by a vet. Any presence of blood in the stool or vomit could be a serious sign.

I'm feeling good! I don't have to go to the vet! 

Your Cat’s Vocalizations Have Changed

Some cats are naturally chattier than others. Lola, for example, talks to me all the time and I have come to learn the differences in her meows. Lexy is not as vocal as Lola is, but by paying attention to her I know the differences in her meows as well. Most importantly, I know the “I’m not feeling well meow” which will alert me to check out their situation. It’s important to know your cat! If your cat is typically on the quite side and they suddenly start to meow more frequently they may be telling you they are in pain or discomfort. And if your talkative cat suddenly becomes quiet, this could also be cause for concern.  This could be a subtle sign that some cat owners may miss, but it’s a good one to be aware of. 

I'm not amused by this at all. 

Other signs to be aware of include changes in litter box/toileting habits, excessive sleeping, disorientation or difficulty walking, hair loss, limping, and overgrooming. This is not an exhaustive list, therefore, it is important to be aware of your cat’s habits and their medical history. If at any time you are unsure if your cat needs medical attention, call your veterinarian immediately for advice! If they are unavailable please contact your emergency vet. 

“Cats require more than love”, says Dr. Brunt.”They need our attention and care to keep them healthy and happy.”  How do you know when your cat isn’t feeling well? 

Dawn


Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian and the contents of this article are not meant to replace veterinary adivice. As stated above, if at any time you feel your cat requires medical care please contact your vet immediately.