Medical Conditions in Cats

Proper veterinary care is important for many common cat health conditions.

Medical conditions in cats are classified as either contagious or metabolic and are caused by organ failure, viruses or bacteria. Genetic predispositions and birth defects may increase a cat's chances of being afflicted with common problems. Fortunately, with proper medical care and attention at home, most cats can recover--or in the least sustain a better quality of life.

Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is an incurable condition characterized by the pancreas's inability to produce enough insulin. In more severe cases, cats need insulin injections. In all cases, a specialized diet is required. According to experts at Vetinfo, symptoms include excessive thirst and urination, increased appetite, weight loss and a dull coat. Diabetes mellitus cannot be entirely prevented, but certain cats--like obese cats--are more prone to it. Vetinfo experts recommend exercising cats, providing plenty of water and giving a quality, age-appropriate diet rich in nutrients, moderate in fats and with adequate amounts of protein and carbohydrates.

Kidney Dysfunction

Kidney dysfunction, also known as kidney disease, renal failure and kidney failure is an incurable condition that often develops in older cats, according to experts at Vetinfo. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, constipation, weight loss and lethargy. To prevent kidney failure or maintain quality of life in afflicted felines, Vetinfo recommends being careful to properly administer and dispose of medications, ensuring the cat drinks plenty of water and introducing a specialized diet.

Urinary Tract Diseases

Though urinary tract diseases can strike any feline, male neutered cats are most commonly afflicted with urinary tract infections (UTI). UTIs can spread to the kidneys or produce an obstructed urethra, a potentially septic condition in which the cat cannot urinate. Symptoms include bloody urine, frequent urination, straining in the litter box and urinating outside of the litter box. More advanced cases may also produce lethargy, increased pain and decreased water intake. Prevention includes daily litter box cleaning, ensuring the cat drinks plenty of water and specialized diets.

Upper Respiratory Infections

Feline upper respiratory infections resemble the common cold in humans and are transmitted from cat to cat. According to the website Vetinfo, symptoms include coughing, sneezing, watering eyes, runny nose and fever. Dehydration and secondary bacterial infections leading to pneumonia are risks, so Vetinfo recommends owners seek immediate medical care for infected cats if they display symptoms like lethargy, difficulty breathing or lack of water intake. Vaccines for the feline calcivirus and feline rhinotracheitis virus are available and administered as early as 9 weeks old. Isolation from sick animals, disinfecting possibly contaminated food bowls, water bowls and litter boxes, as well as maintaining a hygienic environment are also advised by Vetinfo.

Feline Distemper

Feline distemper is a potentially deadly viral infection that can be prevented with vaccines and is spread through contaminated litter boxes, food and water. According to Vetinfo, symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, refusing water and loss of appetite; medical attention should be sought immediately, as cats will need intravenous fluids and monitoring to give them the best chance at survival. Kittens are in the most danger. The best prevention, according to the same website, is vaccination.

References

• Vetinfo: Tips for Preventing Common Cat Diseases
• Vetinfo: Common Cat Illness Symptoms