Upper respiratory infection is very common among the cats and is also known as kitty cold by their owners. The symptoms are very similar to the cold of the humans, accompanied by sneezing and running nose. Even though it seems to be alike, the infections caused in the cats are very different as one species get infected by the other species. But, it can be contagious among the cats. The upper respiratory tract infection can lead to loss of appetite and can affect them from days to weeks. The cats must be made to eat, which can be encouraged by warming their foods and applying a warm, moist cloth to keep the cat's nose and eyes free from any kind of discharge. If the loss of appetite persists and if the discharge becomes yellowish green in color and thicker, they have to be taken to the veterinarian immediately as it will be a serious problem.
Feline Chlamydia is a kind of bacteria which affects the cats, usually infesting the eye, causing conjunctivitis. The symptoms of feline Chlamydia are anorexia, cough, breathing problem, pneumonia, fever, sneezing, running nose, watery eyes etc. It is best treated with the help of antibiotics. This is also one of the common cat diseases.
Panleukopenia is a cat disease that makes the cat's white blood cell count to drop drastically. As white blood cells are very important for the cat's immunity, this condition makes the cats susceptible to many deadly infections. This virus is transmitted through body secretions, mainly via feces and can be carried by water or shoes.
Feline leukemia virus can cause many cat diseases. One among them is leukemia otherwise known as the cancer of the white blood cells. There is no known treatment for this disease and might lead to death after months or years after the incidence of this disease. It is usually transmitted during cat fights. Other reasons for transmission may be through foods shared among them, through water bowls, from mother to the kittens in the womb etc.
Parasites are organisms which feed on other living being for their own survival. Cats are affected by parasites, which feed on their blood. External parasites such as ear mites, fleas etc can be seen on the skin or fur of the cats and in their ears. Internal parasites detection may be bit difficult, but can be known through sighting small rice like debris lingering to the cat's anus or in the cat's bedding. Some of the internal parasites are ring worms, hook worms, tape worms etc.
Coccidia is a microscopic parasite which lives in the lining cells of the intestines. The symptom associated with this parasite is diarrhea which if left untreated, can lead to dehydration and even death. Ear mites usually take up residence in the cat's ear canals causing severe itching.
Bad breath
Don't panic if your cat has a bad breath. Check first if he had fish or other food with strong odours. If not, consult your veterinary as bad breath may the the sign of a tooth decay, urinary problems or the presence of round worms.
Abundant saliva
This sign of cat disease may be the cause of poisoning or viral infection such as pneumonia. However it may simply be due to a foreign object lodged in the cat's mouth. In that case take the object out before the cat swallows it.
Decolorated gums
This might indicate aneamia, the presence of parisites or other affection. If this symptom follows an accident it may be due to internal bleeding.
Running nose
This sign of cat disease is, most of the time, caused by pneumonia.
Sneezing
Your cat caught a cold or something is stuck in his nose !!
Red and burning eyes
Sometimes, this sign of cat disease indicates respiratory problems. It can also be caused by dust.
Running eyes
This is always due to a cold.
Eyes turning opaque
This sign of cat disease indicates a major ocular problem. Consult your veterinary immediately .
Your cat is constantly scratching his ears
Parasites may be present. If the ear contains brownish and smelling crusts there might be an ulceration. If the ear is warm and aching this is probably due to an hematom that will require minor surgery.
Frequent coughing
This sign of cat disease is the result of a pneumonia.
Quick and heavy respiration
This is the symptom of pneumonia or heart problems.
Your cat does not eat anymore
This is a classic cat disease symptom resulting from a variety of health problems. However, bear in mind that a cat in healthy condition can skip 2 to 3 meals. Be concerned only if he skips more.
Your cat is losing weight quickly
This is a sign of probable aneamia or viral infection.
Your cat is weak and apathetic
Again this may be due to aneamia or the presence of parasites. This sign of cat disease may also result from heart problems.
Your cat does not drink water anymore
If your cat peaks over the water bowl but does'nt drink anything he may have typhus or a kidney infection.
He drinks too much !
You would not suspect this is a sign of cat disease. Unfortunately, this may the symptom of a variety of sicknesses : diabetes, liver problem, or uterus infection.
Vomitting
If your cat vomits frequently it may not mean he is sick. But if he vomits a yellow liquid, often times the typhus is the culprit. You also have to watch intoxications and kidney or liver infections. In any event, consult your veterinary immediately.
Urinary difficulties
This may be a serious cat disease symptom. The presence of blood in the urine, particularly with the male cat, requires a quick action you should rush to the veterinary.
Constipation
Here we have several possibilities but it is likely that your cat is not physically active and that his nutrition is not well balanced. Cut on the dehydrated food for a while. You may also use a light laxative. If this is not working, constipation may be caused by tiny hair balls .... or a tumour.
Diarrhea
A real diarrhoea is totally liquid. Your cat may have been excited or his nutrition is unbalanced. Add rice or pasta to his meals for a day or two. If you find traces of blood in the diarrhoea, this sign of cat disease may result from a tumour or it may indicate the presence of parasites.
High fever
A body temperature exceeding 38.8 celsius is a sign that something is working wrong. Don't guess, check with your veterinary.
Drastic change in behavior
This is a sign of cat disease that is difficult to gauge. If your animal becomes aggressive he may have contracted the rage. You may also detect this problem if his mewing is low and rough.
Both David Hensley & Marc Deschamps are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
David Hensley has sinced written about articles on various topics from Software, Text Messaging and Supplements. David Hensley contributes several informative articles regularly to and. David Hensley's top article generates over 33100 views. to your Favourites.
Marc Deschamps has sinced written about articles on various topics from Health, Food And Drink and Pets. Marc Deschamps is the editor of Kitten Cat Magazine, a free online publication, where people can share their passion for cats and learn more about this extraordinary animal. Other articles on cat diseases can be found at. Marc Deschamps's top article generates over 22200 views. to your Favourites.