Just like illness can strike human beings, it can strike their fuzzy feline friends, as well. Cats can be afflicted with all kinds of ailments including vomiting, fleas, tapeworms, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis. Many of these ailments may require a trip to the veterinarian and medicine may be necessary to help the cat recover. Some illnesses, however, are much more serious and may require a stay in an animal hospital.
Here are three serious illnesses in cats.
1. Kidney Disease
While cats can have kidney disease at any age, it more commonly affects older cats. When cats ingest things that are poisonous to their system, such as antifreeze, lily flowers, and Vitamin D, it can result in kidney disease. Certain kinds of infections, as well as diseases like diabetes and pyelonephritis, can also cause kidney disease in cats.
Common causes of kidney disease in cats include:
- Weight loss
- Bad breath
- Mouth ulcers
- Poor hair quality
- Lethargy
Cats that exhibit any of these symptoms should be seen by a veterinarian right away. While kidney disease usually can't be reversed, treatment can help to ease symptoms and prolong a cat's life.
2. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
This infectious cat disease attacks the immune system, which increases the animal's risk for other kinds of infections. This disease most commonly occurs when a cat gets bit by an infected cat. In some cases, a cat may be infected with FIV for years without having any symptoms.
When symptoms do appear, they usually include the following:
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Poor appetite
- Anemia
- Diarrhea
- Conjunctivitis
Eventually, cats with FIV will become immune-deficient. When a cat suffers from immune deficiency, bacteria and viruses that are usually harmless can cause severe sickness. There is no cure for FIV, and cats can no longer get vaccinated for this disease. The best way for cat owners to prevent this disease is by ensuring their furry friend stays indoors or away from cats that might bite.
3. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
Unfortunately, FeLV is a leading cause of death for cats. However, when caught early, the symptoms can be managed and the cat can survive. FeLV is an infectious disease that is spread through the saliva, blood, urine, and feces of infected cats. The disease can also be transmitted through bite wounds and using the same cat food bowl and water dish.
Common symptoms of FeLV include:
- Pale gums
- Inflammation of the mouth
- Fever
- Poor coat condition
- Progressive weight loss
Keeping cats away from infected cats and vaccinating those that are at risk of getting the disease are some ways to prevent FeLV.
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