Common Everyday Cat Illnesses (Part 2)

Five more common cat conditions: (1) Panleukopenia (feline distemper) — a fierce, contagious viral disease hitting gut and airways; fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration; high death rate in under-8-week kittens, so vaccinate and rush to a vet at the first sign (lice, mites, fleas can spread it). (2) Cancer — rarer than in dogs but cats hide pain; watch for lumps, non-healing skin infections, weight loss, vomiting, odd urination. (3) Kidney disease — common in seniors; low appetite, weight drop, vomiting, lethargy; needs dialysis or transplant when severe. (4) Fractures — from falls; sudden limping or hiding. (5) Poisoning — from human food or toxic plants; repeated vomiting/diarrhea, blood in stool/urine; vets give fluids and anti-emetics. Don't rely on self-healing—use a trusted clinic.

Common Everyday Cat Illnesses

Five common cat issues: (1) Upper respiratory infection—cough, sneeze, runny nose (yellow discharge is a red flag), from cold or poor nutrition; prevent with warmth and good food. (2) Fleas—scratching and black specks after a bath; treat with a vet-recommended flea product. (3) Heartworm—intermittent vomiting, cough, wheezing, lethargy; prevent with monthly prevention and by controlling mosquitoes (the intermediate host) and clean water. (4) Periodontal disease—bad breath, drooling, only soft food; prevent with regular brushing/cleaning. (5) Obesity—oval loaf shape, jiggling belly, hard-to-feel ribs; leads to diabetes, lower-urinary disease, arthritis, hepatic lipidosis; feed measured meals and exercise.