Common Cat Health Problems Every Owner Should Know

Common cat health problems include digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea), urinary tract issues (FLUTD), respiratory infections, dental disease, skin conditions (fleas, allergies), and parasites. Recognizing early signs and seeking prompt veterinary care are crucial for your cat’s well-being and a long, healthy life. Preventative care, including proper diet, hydration, and regular vet check-ups, is your best defense.

As a cat owner, you want nothing more than for your furry friend to be happy and healthy. But just like people, cats can face various health challenges. It’s completely normal for concerns to pop up, from a sudden cough to a change in appetite. Many common cat health problems are manageable, especially when caught early. Knowing what to look for can make a huge difference in your cat’s quality of life and help you act quickly if something seems off. You’re in the right place to learn about the most frequent feline ailments, their signs, and how you can help your beloved pet. Let’s explore these common issues together, giving you the confidence to keep your cat purring happily.

Understanding Common Cat Health Issues

Cats are masters at hiding pain and illness, a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. This makes it especially important for owners to be observant and recognize subtle changes in behavior, appetite, litter box habits, or physical appearance. Early detection is often key to successful treatment and preventing minor issues from becoming major emergencies.

Many factors can contribute to a cat’s health problems, including age, genetics, diet, environment, and exposure to other animals. While some conditions are chronic and require ongoing management, many common ailments can be resolved with timely veterinary intervention and proper home care. Understanding these common problems empowers you to be a proactive and responsible pet parent.

Digestive System Woes: Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Hairballs

Digestive issues are perhaps the most frequently reported problems in cats. Occasional vomiting or a loose stool might not be cause for alarm, but persistent or severe symptoms warrant a vet visit.

Vomiting

• Symptoms: Retching, expulsion of stomach contents (food, bile, hairballs).
• Common Causes: Eating too fast, dietary indiscretion (eating something they shouldn’t), hairballs, food allergies, parasites, pancreatitis, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism.
• What to Do: If it’s just a hairball or isolated incident, monitor your cat. Withhold food for a few hours (but ensure access to water) and then offer a small amount of bland food (e.g., boiled chicken).
• When to See the Vet: If vomiting is frequent, contains blood, is accompanied by lethargy, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, or if your cat seems in pain.

Diarrhea

• Symptoms: Loose, watery, or unformed stools; increased frequency of defecation; sometimes blood or mucus in stool.
• Common Causes: Dietary changes, food allergies/intolerances, parasites (worms, giardia), bacterial infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), stress, certain medications.
• What to Do: Ensure your cat stays hydrated. A bland diet might help settle their stomach.
• When to See the Vet: If diarrhea is severe, prolonged (more than 24-48 hours), bloody, or accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or fever.

Hairballs

• Symptoms: Retching, gagging, coughing, vomiting cylindrical wads of fur.
• Common Causes: Cats groom themselves meticulously, swallowing loose fur. This fur normally passes through the digestive tract, but sometimes it accumulates in the stomach.
• What to Do: Regular brushing, especially for long-haired cats, can significantly reduce the amount of swallowed fur. Consider a hairball control diet or a hairball remedy paste.
• Prevention Product Idea: Cat Hairball Remedy Gel – These gels often contain lubricants to help hair pass more easily.
• When to See the Vet: If hairballs are frequent and severe, or if your cat is straining to pass them, becomes constipated, or loses appetite.

Urinary Tract Troubles: FLUTD, UTIs, and Kidney Disease

Urinary issues are common and can be very serious in cats, especially males, due to their narrower urethras which are more prone to blockages. Prompt attention is vital.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

FLUTD is a general term for a group of conditions that can affect a cat’s bladder and urethra. The most common form is Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC), which is inflammation of the bladder with no known cause, often linked to stress.

• Symptoms: Frequent attempts to urinate (pollakiuria), straining to urinate (stranguria), urinating outside the litter box (periuria), blood in urine (hematuria), crying during urination, licking genitals excessively.
• Common Causes: Stress, diet, obesity, insufficient water intake, bladder stones, bacterial infections (less common in cats than dogs), urethral plugs (especially in males).
• What to Do: Increase water intake (wet food, water fountains), reduce stress, ensure clean litter boxes.
• When to See the Vet: IMMEDIATELY if your cat is straining and producing no urine, as this could indicate a life-threatening urethral blockage, particularly in male cats. Any sign of urinary discomfort warrants a vet visit.

Kidney Disease (Chronic Kidney Disease – CKD)

CKD is a progressive and irreversible condition common in older cats where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products from the blood.

• Symptoms: Increased thirst (polydipsia) and urination (polyuria), weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, poor coat quality, bad breath (uremic halitosis).
• Common Causes: Age, genetics, previous kidney injuries, certain diseases.
• What to Do: Manage symptoms with veterinary guidance. This often involves special prescription diets, fluid therapy, and medications to control nausea or phosphorus levels.
• Prevention Product Idea: Cat Water Fountain – Encourages increased water intake, which is vital for kidney and urinary health.
• When to See the Vet: If you notice any combination of these symptoms, especially in an older cat. Regular senior check-ups with blood and urine tests can detect CKD early.

Respiratory Infections: The Cat Cold

Just like humans, cats can catch colds, often referred to as Feline Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs). These are highly contagious, especially in multi-cat households or shelters.

• Symptoms: Sneezing, runny nose (clear or colored discharge), watery or crusty eyes, conjunctivitis (red, swollen eyes), coughing, lethargy, fever, decreased appetite.
• Common Causes: Viruses (Feline Herpesvirus, Feline Calicivirus) are most common, but bacteria (Bordetella, Chlamydophila) can also play a role.
• What to Do: Keep your cat warm and comfortable. Wipe away discharge from eyes and nose. Encourage eating by offering strong-smelling, palatable wet food. Use a humidifier to ease congestion.
• When to See the Vet: If symptoms worsen, persist for more than a few days, your cat stops eating, develops difficulty breathing, or seems severely lethargic. Kittens and senior cats are at higher risk for complications.

Skin and Coat Concerns

Skin issues can range from annoying itching to more serious infections, often indicating underlying problems.

Fleas

• Symptoms: Excessive scratching, biting, licking; flea dirt (small black specks that turn reddish-brown when wet) on the fur; actual fleas visible. Some cats develop flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), leading to severe itching, scabs, and hair loss.
• Common Causes: Exposure to fleas from other animals or the environment.
• What to Do: Use vet-approved flea prevention products (topicals, oral medications). Treat all pets in the household and thoroughly clean your home (vacuuming, washing bedding).
• When to See the Vet: If infestations are severe, or if your cat is experiencing extreme discomfort, skin infections, or tapeworms (fleas are intermediate hosts for tapeworms).

Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)

Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm. It’s contagious to other pets and humans.

• Symptoms: Circular patches of hair loss, scaly skin, redness, broken hairs, sometimes itchy. Lesions can appear anywhere on the body.
• Common Causes: Contact with infected animals, contaminated objects (bedding, grooming tools), or soil.
• What to Do: Isolate the infected cat. Thoroughly clean and disinfect the environment.
• When to See the Vet: For diagnosis and treatment, which may involve antifungal medications (oral and/or topical) and environmental decontamination.

Allergies

Cats can suffer from environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites), food allergies, or flea allergies.

• Symptoms: Intense itching, excessive grooming, skin redness, scabs, hair loss, ear infections, sometimes digestive upset (with food allergies).
• Common Causes: Exposure to allergens.
• What to Do: Identify and remove the allergen if possible.
• When to See the Vet: For diagnosis and management. Treatment can involve antihistamines, steroids, special diets, or immunotherapy.

Dental Disease: More Than Bad Breath

Dental problems are incredibly common in cats, with many showing signs by age three. They can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even systemic health issues.

• Symptoms: Bad breath (halitosis), red or swollen gums (gingivitis), difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, visible tartar on teeth, missing teeth, bleeding gums.
• Common Causes: Plaque and tartar buildup, leading to gingivitis and periodontitis (inflammation and infection of the tissues supporting the teeth). Resorptive lesions (painful erosions of the tooth structure) are also common.
• What to Do: Daily brushing with pet-specific toothpaste and brush is the gold standard. Dental treats and water additives can help but are not a substitute for brushing.
• Prevention Product Idea: Cat Dental Care Kit – Often includes a toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste designed for cats.
• When to See the Vet: For regular dental check-ups. Your vet can recommend professional dental cleanings under anesthesia to remove tartar and address any painful issues.

Weight Management: Obesity and Malnutrition

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for a cat’s overall well-being. Both obesity and being underweight can indicate underlying health problems.

Obesity

• Symptoms: Visible fat deposits, difficulty feeling ribs, no discernible waist, lethargy, difficulty grooming, joint pain.
• Common Causes: Overfeeding, lack of exercise, high-calorie diets, certain medical conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism, though rare in cats).
• Health Risks: Diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, liver disease, urinary issues, reduced lifespan.
• What to Do: Work with your vet to create a controlled weight loss plan involving a specific diet (often prescription weight-loss food) and increased activity (playtime, puzzle feeders).
• When to See the Vet: If your cat is overweight, or if you’re concerned about their weight.

Malnutrition/Underweight

• Symptoms: Ribs, spine, and hip bones easily visible or felt, muscle wasting, lethargy, poor coat quality.
• Common Causes: Insufficient food intake, poor quality diet, underlying medical conditions (e.g., hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, IBD, cancer, dental pain, parasites).
• What to Do: Ensure your cat has access to a high-quality, nutritionally complete diet.
• When to See the Vet: If your cat is losing weight without a change in diet or activity, or if they appear underweight. This is often a sign of a serious underlying illness.

Parasites: Internal and External Threats

Parasites can cause a range of health issues, from mild irritation to life-threatening conditions. Regular preventative measures are essential.

External Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Mites)

• Fleas: Covered above under Skin and Coat Concerns.
• Ticks: Small, blood-sucking arachnids that attach to the skin. Can transmit diseases like Lyme disease (though less common in cats than dogs) and cause anemia in severe infestations.
• Mites: Microscopic parasites causing conditions like ear mites (intense ear itching, dark discharge) or sarcoptic mange (intense body itching, hair loss).
• What to Do: Use vet-approved preventative products. Check your cat regularly for ticks and remove them carefully.
• When to See the Vet: For diagnosis and treatment of infestations, or if you suspect a tick-borne illness.

Internal Parasites (Worms)

• Common Types: Roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms. Heartworms are also a threat, especially in warm climates.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, pot-bellied appearance (especially in kittens), poor coat, coughing (with heartworm or severe lungworm). Segments of tapeworms may be visible around the anus or in stool.
• Common Causes: Ingestion of infected feces, prey animals (rodents), fleas (for tapeworms), or mosquito bites (for heartworm).
• What to Do: Regular deworming as recommended by your vet, especially for kittens. Year-round heartworm prevention is crucial in endemic areas.
• When to See the Vet: For diagnosis (fecal tests) and appropriate deworming medication.

Chronic Conditions and Age-Related Issues

As cats age, they become more susceptible to chronic diseases, which require ongoing management.

Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

• Symptoms: Reluctance to jump, reduced activity, difficulty using the litter box, stiffness, limping, irritability when handled.
• Common Causes: Age-related wear and tear on joints, previous injuries, obesity.
• What to Do: Provide comfortable, easily accessible resting places. Consider ramps or steps for high spots. Weight management is crucial.
• When to See the Vet: For diagnosis (X-rays) and pain management, which may include anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, or physical therapy.

Hyperthyroidism

A common endocrine disorder in older cats, caused by an overactive thyroid gland.

• Symptoms: Weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, increased thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, poor coat, rapid heart rate.
• What to Do: Diagnosis is confirmed with a blood test.
• When to See the Vet: For diagnosis and treatment options, which include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, surgery, or a prescription diet.

Diabetes Mellitus

Cats with diabetes cannot produce enough insulin or cannot properly use the insulin they produce, leading to high blood sugar levels.

• Symptoms: Increased thirst and urination, increased appetite (initially), weight loss, lethargy, poor coat, walking on hocks (plantigrade stance).
• Common Causes: Obesity, genetics, certain medications.
• What to Do: Requires veterinary diagnosis and management, often involving insulin injections, dietary changes, and regular monitoring.
• When to See the Vet: If you notice these symptoms.

Here’s a quick reference table for common symptoms and potential issues:

Symptom	Potential Common Issues	When to See a Vet Immediately
Straining to urinate, no urine produced	Urethral blockage (FLUTD)	YES – Emergency!
Frequent vomiting or diarrhea	Dietary upset, parasites, IBD, kidney disease	If severe, bloody, or prolonged (>24-48 hrs)
Difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing	Respiratory infection, heart disease, asthma	YES – Emergency!
Sudden lameness or inability to move	Injury, arthritis, blood clot	YES – Emergency!
Sudden loss of appetite or refusal to eat	Any illness, dental pain, foreign body	If persists for >24 hours or accompanied by other severe signs
Increased thirst and urination	Kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism	Yes, for diagnosis
Lethargy, hiding, changes in behavior	Pain, fever, any illness	If severe or persistent
Excessive scratching, licking, hair loss	Fleas, allergies, ringworm, mites	Yes, for diagnosis and treatment

When to See the Vet: Warning Signs Not to Ignore

While many minor issues can be managed at home, it’s crucial to know when a trip to the vet is necessary. Always err on the side of caution. Here are some critical warning signs:

• Difficulty breathing: Open-mouth breathing, labored breathing, wheezing, coughing, blue-tinged gums.
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea: Especially if accompanied by blood, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
• Straining to urinate or defecate: Especially if no urine is produced (a male cat emergency!).
• Sudden lameness or inability to move.
• Severe pain: Crying, hiding, aggression, hunched posture.
• Collapse or unconsciousness.
• Seizures.
• Ingestion of toxins: Any suspected poisoning (e.g., lilies, antifreeze, human medications).
• Loss of appetite or thirst for more than 24 hours.
• Significant changes in behavior: Sudden aggression, extreme lethargy, disorientation.
• Unexplained weight loss or gain.
• Swelling or lumps: Especially if rapidly growing or painful.
• Fever: If your cat feels unusually hot or is lethargic with warm ears/nose.

If you observe any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. For after-hours emergencies, know the location and contact information of your nearest emergency veterinary clinic.

Preventative Care: Your Best Defense

The best way to manage cat health problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. A proactive approach to your cat’s health involves several key components:

1. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Annual wellness exams (or twice yearly for senior cats) are vital. Your vet can catch problems early, administer necessary vaccinations, and provide preventative care. Learn more about Cat Vaccination Schedule and Cost: Protecting Your Feline Friend.
2. Balanced Nutrition: Feed a high-quality, complete, and balanced cat food appropriate for your cat’s age and activity level. Avoid overfeeding.
3. Fresh Water: Always provide fresh, clean water. Consider a water fountain to encourage drinking, especially for cats prone to urinary issues.
4. Parasite Control: Use vet-recommended year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Regular deworming for intestinal parasites is also important.
5. Dental Hygiene: Daily tooth brushing is ideal. If that’s not possible, discuss other dental care options with your vet.
6. Enrichment and Exercise: Provide toys, scratching posts, climbing opportunities, and regular playtime to keep your cat physically active and mentally stimulated. This helps prevent obesity and stress-related issues.
7. Litter Box Management: Keep litter boxes clean (scoop daily, change litter regularly) and provide enough boxes (one per cat plus one extra). This reduces stress and encourages proper urination/defecation habits.
8. Stress Reduction: Cats are sensitive to stress. Provide safe spaces, consistent routines, and minimize sudden changes when possible.
9. Observation: Be observant of your cat’s normal habits. Any change in appetite, thirst, litter box use, activity level, or behavior can be an early sign of illness.

By implementing these preventative measures, you significantly reduce the risk of your cat developing many common health problems, ensuring a happier, healthier, and longer life together.

For more authoritative information on cat health, you can consult resources like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the Cornell Feline Health Center.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions cat owners have about their feline friends’ health:

Q1: How often should my cat see the vet?
A1: Generally, healthy adult cats should have a wellness check-up once a year. Senior cats (typically over 7-10 years old) or those with chronic conditions may benefit from twice-yearly visits for closer monitoring.

Q2: What are the most common signs that my cat is sick?
A2: Common signs include changes in appetite or thirst, lethargy, hiding, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in litter box habits (straining, urinating outside the box), unusual vocalizations, or changes in grooming and coat quality. Any persistent change from their normal behavior should be noted.

Q3: Can cats get colds like humans?
A3: Yes, cats can get upper respiratory infections (URIs) often referred to as “cat colds.” They are usually caused by viruses like Feline Herpesvirus or Calicivirus and present with symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. They are not contagious to humans.

Q4: Why is my cat suddenly urinating outside the litter box?
A4: Urinating outside the litter box (periuria) is a common sign of a medical issue, most often a urinary tract problem like FLUTD or a UTI. It can also be caused by stress, dissatisfaction with the litter box (type of litter, cleanliness, location), or arthritis making it difficult to get into the box. Always rule out a medical cause with your vet first.

Q5: How can I tell if my cat is in pain?
A5: Cats often hide pain. Subtle signs include changes in posture (hunched), reluctance to move or jump, hiding, decreased appetite, aggression when touched, excessive licking of a specific area, changes in grooming habits, or unusual vocalizations (growling, hissing, low moans).

Q6: Is it normal for my cat to vomit hairballs frequently?
A6: Occasional hairballs (once every few weeks) can be normal, especially for long-haired cats. However, frequent hairballs (e.g., multiple times a week), or if they cause your cat to strain, gag excessively, or stop eating, could indicate a problem and warrant a vet visit. Regular brushing and hairball control diets/supplements can help.

Q7: What’s the best way to prevent fleas on my cat?
A7: The most effective way to prevent fleas is through regular use of vet-prescribed or recommended flea prevention products, which come in topical, oral, or collar forms. Treating all pets in the household and keeping your home clean also helps. Over-the-counter products can sometimes be less effective or even harmful.