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Cat Health - Common
Problems by Richard G M Taylor
No matter what breed of cat and no matter how well you look after your
cat, like us humans, they will suffer from common cat health problems
during the course of their life. As a cat owner, you will need to be aware
of the most common problems, some of which can be avoided with the right
awareness and by taking basic precautions.
The most common cat health problems are colds, bite wounds, digestive
problems, urinary problems and diarrhea, and
eye problems.
Cats are sensitive to many respiratory viruses and infections such as the
common cold and like humans they can usually rely on their own immune
system to deal with it. However, if your cat is off its food and appears
listless and in some distress then you should consult your vet for
appropriate medication.
Cats, particularly Tom cats do fight a lot. Often with other cats and
sometimes with dogs and more dangerously with the dreaded fox. This can
lead to various wounds which will need treatment from a vet to avoid
infections setting in. Eyes are particularly vulnerable.
Fleas are also a common cat health problem, especially if your cat is
outside a lot. Tapeworm and other parasites are common problems cat health
problems too and often cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Your
vet will have medication to deal with these issues.
Another common cat health problem, mainly associated with Tom cats that
have not been neutered, is urinary tract infection. If your cat stops
using the litter box, or the urine is particularly strong smelling then
these are clear signs and your vet should be consulted without delay.
Although not normally a cat health problem on its own, hairballs or fur
balls are very common and can lead to problems under certain
circumstances. Cats naturally swallow fur from their constant grooming and
although it will normally pass through the cats digestive system, there
are times when it gathers into a fur ball and may become lodged in the
digestive tract or intestine with serious consequences if not treated
quickly. Symptoms are not eating properly, constipation and listlessness.
Often a cat will cough up a fur ball if it gets caught in the throat. You
can help prevent hairballs or fur balls occurring if you brush your cat
regularly.
Feline leukemia used to be a very common cat health problem and was often
fatal. These days, however, with modern vaccines available the disease can
be prevented. Always have you cat vaccinated if there is a risk of
infection because this is a highly contagious disease.
The main message here is to monitor you cat's health, visit the vet
regularly for check ups and take advice from your vet on suitable
vaccinations.
The main message here is to monitor you cat's health, visit the vet
regularly for check ups and take advice from your vet on suitable
vaccinations.
For more information on Cat Health visit http://www.aboutcathealth.info/
Article Source: http://www.animalpetsandfriends.com
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