Common Cat Diseases, Symptoms Treatment Options
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By Mary Nielsen, Founder of FelineLiving.net
When you realize your cat is sick, it's likely his mood and behaviors that tip you off. He hides. He may hiss or spit at you. Symptoms of illness can help confirm your suspicions and prompt you to make an appointment with your vet.
When you realize your cat is sick, it's likely his mood and behaviors that tip you off. He hides. He may hiss or spit at you. Symptoms of illness can help confirm your suspicions and prompt you to make an appointment with your vet.
Avoid Chronic Kidney Disease
Providing sufficient water and the right kind of cat food can help your cat to avoid kidney disease. Antifreeze is especially dangerous. If he does get sick, talk to your vet about treatment.
By watching what your cat eats, as well as how much, you can help him to avoid developing diabetes. Monitor his weight, and if symptoms develop, get him to the vet right away. If he is diabetic, the vet will develop a treatment plan.
Protect Against Feline Leukemia Virus
The best protection against FeLV is vaccination. Don’t allow stray cats to socialize with your cat—the disease spreads through close contact. If your cat does get sick, discuss treatments with your vet.
Defend Against Feline Infectious Peritonitis
Feline coronavirus is spread in the feces and saliva of infected cats. It mutates, becoming feline infectious peritonitis. If he does get sick, discuss managing his symptoms with your vet.
Shield Against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
FIV makes your cat vulnerable to all kinds of infections. There is a vaccine available, but it’s not appropriate for every cat. Talk to your vet about this, then decide about vaccination.
Manage Feline Hyperthyroidism
Watch your cat for symptoms of hyperthyroidism (matted, greasy fur, weight loss, increased appetite, restlessness, drinking more water and gastrointestinal symptoms). Decide on treatments after discussing with your vet.
Guard Against Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Some cats seem more vulnerable to developing FLUTD. If your cat is diagnosed, lifestyle changes, a new food and medications may help control his condition. Discuss these with your vet.
Safeguard Against Rabies
Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals. There is no cure; rabies vaccinations are mandatory, so have your cat vaccinated.
Shelter From Upper Respiratory Infections
Cats get colds. Vets can prescribe treatments that will help your cat recover, including eye drops, antibiotics and nose drops.
Cushion Against Worms
Worms may be present in the feces of infected cats. Never allow your cat to eat other cats’ feces. Discuss de-worming testing and treatments with your vet.
Note: Mary Nielsen is not a veterinarian. The advice she shares is based on experience and research. Her goal is to find the best information to share with other hardworking pet parents.
For more information, check out her About Us section on Feline Living. 
