Many people are anxious to have a cat due to their sweet and loving way of being, for their company or simply for having a pet around the house. However, not everyone thinks about the way a cat should be cared for, fed or treated. Moreover, some might not even consider the fact that even cats can get sick or, in case they are not well cared for, they might actually get seriously ill.
In order to prevent your cat from getting various diseases or developing medical issues, you should know what the most common health problems in cats are, so that you know what to do and how to prevent these problems from developing. As much self-maintained as they seem to be, cats are also very sensitive:
? Vomiting is a very common health issue in cats due to poisonous food, infections, urinary tract disease or even diabetes. This problem can cause serious dehydration and abdominal pains - in case your cat continues with these symptoms, make sure you see a veterinarian as quickly as possible.
? Urinary tract disease is another common health problem in cats. This problem often occurs in cats that are overweight or fed dry food. Cats suffering from this disease show symptoms like:
o Bloody urine or restraint in urinating
o Licking
o Dehydration
o Depression
o Vomiting
? A very well-known problem in any pets is flea infestation, which can also cause several other problems such as: irritation, hair loss, skin infections
? Tapeworms that usually affect cats can grow up to 2 feet inside your cat?s small intestine causing vomiting and massive weight loss. In order to prevent tapeworms in cats, make sure you solve the flea problem, which is the most common cause.
? Diarrhea is a symptom that can be caused by many health problems, such as allergies, infections, liver disease or even cancer - this is why you should pay close attention on this matter and talk to your veterinarian about this.
? Cats also have very sensitive eyes that can be affected by many issues like: conjunctivitis, cataracts, glaucoma or several other eye problems. So make sure you wipe away all the dirt or gunk that gathers around their eyes to prevent these affections.
? One of the most serious health problems in cats is kidney failure, which is why all pet owners should be cautious about their cat's nourishment and always discuss this problems with their vet.
Separation Anxiety In Cats
Every pet owner should know that dogs, as well as cats, suffer from anxiety due to separation. Even though you might think that cats enjoy being solitary and deal with life on their own, they are extremely sociable creatures that get affected when being left aside. Cats also create a very strong bond with their owners and love being around people, cuddled and cared for.
Orphaned cats or cats that spend a lot of time alone might develop separation anxiety, and the best way to find out whether your cat is suffering from it is paying attention to the following signs:
? Excessive mewing might be one of the signs
? Urinating outside the litter box
? Urinating or defecating on the owner?s bed or clothes is another symptom, so you should not necessarily get upset because of this. This behavior could be explained as a way of mixing your scent with hers
? Loss of appetite can also make you consider if your cat is suffering from anxiety
However, all these symptoms can be associated with several other health problems, so discussing this matter with your veterinarian would be the best thing to do. Once your cat is diagnosed with separation anxiety, you should immediately take all the possible measures to reduce it and create a proper environment for your small friend.
The best ways to prevent and treat separation anxiety in cats:
? Change the indoor environment so that it feels secure and comfortable each time you are away from home. Use puzzle feeders or play areas where your cat can spend time without feeling lonely. Also special treats placed in the puzzle feeder could really become an entertaining thing for your beloved cat while you are away
? Many people install cat trees where the fur balls can take naps, play or climb, somewhere near the window so they can feel comfortable even though they are indoors
? When you are at home, take time to cuddle your cat, offer her treats and praise her and not only when it asks for it. Make her feel loved and cared for
? Playtime is another important aspect when trying to cope with separation anxiety. Make sure you engage in play sessions with your cat at least once a day, as they adore any chance of attention they get
? Your mood affects the mood of your cat, so whenever you are upset or sad, your cat will feel the same
? Television is a great source of entertainment for cats even though you might think it has no effect on them. They also enjoy music, especially classic or soft music that relaxes and calms them
In case none of the above suggestions work with your cat and the symptoms of anxiety are aggravating, you might want to talk to a specialist about this problem in order to solve it. Serious anxiety problems could also be treated through medication, alongside a proper behavior and care from your part.
Remember not to treat this problem with ignorance, as it might get worse in time.
Proper nutrition and care for your cats, as well as regular visits to the veterinarian can help you prevent several of these common cat health problems. All animals suffer from different health problems just like humans but the important thing is to know what causes these problems and what are the best prevention methods so that you will not have to face such difficulties.
Care for your pet is just like carrying for your own child. Once it becomes a member of your family, a cat will be irreplaceable and you will be ready to make any efforts just to see it safe and sound from all harms.
