We usually associate dementia with humans, but cats can develop feline dementia, or cognitive dysfunction, as they get older, too.

The symptoms of dementia in cats, like confusion and sleep problems, mirror those experienced by humans.

Increased vocalization, particularly meowing, is also common in cats with dementia, as is a change in appetite.

A new study published in the European Journal of Neuroscience has found that the brains of cats with dementia change in a similar way to those of people with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. This may help us to better study dementia in humans, the researchers have said.

Scientists found a build-up of the toxic protein amyloid-beta in the brains of cats with dementia, something also found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. This helps us learn how the protein leads to age-related brain dysfunction and memory loss in cats.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh examined the brains of 25 cats after they’d died, including cats who’d shown signs of feline dementia. They found build-ups of amyloid-beta within the synapses, connections between brain cells, of senior cats and cats with dementia.

They also discovered that astrocytes and microglia, both support cells found in the brain, ‘ate’ the synapses affected. Known as synaptic pruning, the process is important when the brain is developing but can contribute to synapse loss in dementia.

Synapses allow messages to travel between brain cells and are important when it comes to keeping the brain healthy. When they’re affected, it’s likely to lead to memory and cognitive issues.

The findings will help us both understand and learn to manage dementia in cats, but dementia in humans, too. Previously, scientists have had to rely on rodent models, but rodents don’t naturally develop dementia. So, studying cats who’ve died with dementia could aid research and help develop treatments.

Dr Robert McGeachan, study lead from the University of Edinburgh's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: "Dementia is a devastating disease – whether it affects humans, cats, or dogs. Our findings highlight the striking similarities between feline dementia and Alzheimer's disease in people.

“This opens the door to exploring whether promising new treatments for human Alzheimer's disease could also help our aging pets.”

Professor Danièlle Gunn-Moore, Personal Chair of Feline Medicine at the same vet school, added: "Feline dementia is so distressing for the cat and for its person. It is by undertaking studies like this that we will understand how best to treat them. This will be wonderful for the cats, their owners, people with Alzheimer's and their loved ones. Feline dementia is the perfect natural model for Alzheimer's, everyone benefits."

Read next: 32 tips for taking care of senior cats

Lethargy in cats is something I have encountered frequently in my 14 years as a veterinary surgeon. It is a very common reason for owners to bring their cats into the clinic, often describing them as “not themselves,” “not quite right,” or just “more sleepy than usual.” Because cats naturally enjoy long naps, it can sometimes be tricky to tell if they’re just resting or if there’s an underlying problem.

In veterinary practice, I’ve seen cases where lethargy was caused by something minor, like a mild viral infection, and others where it was the first sign of a life-threatening condition. Cats are masters at hiding illness, so subtle changes in their behavior or activity levels can be important clues.

The key to helping your cat is recognizing what’s normal for them and spotting changes early. This article will explain what lethargy in cats really means, the symptoms to watch for, the possible causes, and how you can help your cat feel better, as well as when it’s essential to seek veterinary attention.

What is lethargy in cats?

Lethargy in cats refers to a noticeable decrease in energy, enthusiasm, or willingness to engage in normal activities. A lethargic cat may spend more time sleeping, show less interest in play, grooming, or eating, and may seem generally “sluggish” or weak.

It’s important to remember that cats normally sleep for 12–16 hours a day, so sleep alone isn’t a cause for concern. The difference with lethargy is that your cat’s overall responsiveness and interest in their environment changes, even during the hours when they’d usually be active.

Symptoms of lethargy in cats

While lethargy itself is a symptom, you may also notice:

• Decreased appetite: Eating less than usual or not eating food altogether. If you're wondering why your cat isn’t eating, it can often be linked to an underlying illness causing lethargy.
• Reduced grooming: Coat may become dull, greasy, or matted.
• Less interest in play: Your cat won't play and even favorite toys may be ignored.
• Sleeping in unusual places: Particularly hiding away more than normal. A common query is why is my cat hiding?, as this can be a key sign of pain or stress.
• Slow or stiff movements: Reluctance to jump or climb.
• Changes in vocalization: Quieter than usual or, in some cases, more vocal.
• Weight loss: This can be gradual or sudden.
• Changes in toileting habits: You might notice things like urinating outside the litter tray.

If you notice lethargy alongside other signs like breathing difficulty, persistent vomiting, or collapse, this is an emergency and you should contact your vet immediately.

Causes of lethargy in cats

Lethargy in cats can be caused by a wide range of issues, including:

• Infection: Viral (e.g., feline calicivirus) or bacterial infections can be a huge drain on your cat’s energy.
• Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and worms can cause anemia or general unwellness.
• Pain or injury: Cats in pain may avoid movement and rest more than usual. Learning the subtle signs of pain in cats is crucial for early detection.
• Anemia: A low red blood cell count can leave your cat weak and tired.
• Heart disease: Reduces the body’s ability to circulate oxygen efficiently.
• Kidney disease: Common in older cats and can cause toxin build-up in the blood.
• Liver disease: Affects metabolism and energy levels.
• Endocrine disorders: Such as diabetes mellitus or hyperthyroidism.
• Cancer: Certain cancers can cause fatigue, either directly or through secondary effects.
• Toxin ingestion: Poisoning can cause sudden onset lethargy.
• Stress or emotional changes: Cats can withdraw and rest more when anxious or depressed.

How can I help my lethargic cat?

The first step is to monitor your cat closely and seek veterinary advice. While mild lethargy that resolves within 24 hours may be due to something minor, anything that persists or worsens needs investigation.

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause, and may include:

• Veterinary examination and diagnostic tests: Your vet may recommend blood tests, urine tests, imaging (X-ray or ultrasound), or other checks to identify the cause.
• Parasite control: Regular flea, tick, and worm treatment can prevent lethargy caused by infestations. Ensure you are using the best flea treatment for cats to rule this out.
• Supportive care: This might involve fluids, nutritional support, and pain relief.
• Specific medication: Such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, insulin for diabetes, or heart medications.
• Lifestyle adjustments: For chronic conditions, adjustments to diet, environment, and routine can improve comfort and energy.

Lethargy in cats is a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored. While it may be due to something minor, it can also be the first sign of serious illness. The safest approach is to get your cat checked by a vet, especially if the change is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms.

By knowing your cat’s normal behavior and acting promptly when something seems wrong, you can help ensure they get the care they need – and hopefully get them back to their lively, affectionate selves as soon as possible.

Read next: Cat sleep positions

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Can cats drink oat milk? It’s a question I encounter increasingly in my veterinary practice. As more households embrace plant-based diets, many animal lovers wonder whether their cats can share in that trend. With over 14 years of experience as a vet, I've advised many pet owners about human foods and the surprising risks they can pose to our feline friends.

While oat milk might seem like a harmless, dairy-free option, it's important to remember that cats aren’t small humans. They are obligate carnivores with digestive systems finely tuned for protein and fats, not plant-derived sugars. So before you pour a little into a saucer for your whiskered companion, it helps to know what’s safe, and what’s not.

In this article, I’ll explain the realities of feeding oat milk to cats and discuss some better alternatives. While you're here, you might also want to learn more about what cats should drink.

Can cats drink oat milk?

Cats can drink oat milk without it causing them any immediate harm. Because it is a plant-based product, oat milk does not contain lactose. This is important, as many cats struggle to digest lactose properly, which is why cow’s milk often leads to uncomfortable symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, or diarrhea.

By comparison, oat milk is far less likely to upset the digestive system. However, just because something is safe does not mean it is useful or beneficial. Oat milk offers no meaningful nutritional value to cats.

As obligate carnivores, cats have very specific dietary requirements that come almost exclusively from animal proteins. Oat milk does not provide these. It is very low in protein, it does not contain essential amino acids such as taurine, and it lacks the healthy fats that support a cat’s overall wellbeing.

Instead, it is relatively high in carbohydrates, which cats do not process efficiently. If given regularly, these extra calories can contribute to gradual weight gain, particularly in indoor cats that are less active and therefore more prone to obesity. For these reasons, while an occasional sip of oat milk is unlikely to cause any problems, it should not form a part of a cat’s regular diet.

How much oat milk can cats drink?

If you do decide to give your cat a little oat milk, it should only ever be regarded as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.

A very small amount is more than enough – around a teaspoon or two, offered no more than once or twice a week. It is important to make sure the oat milk is plain and unsweetened, as flavored varieties often contain added sugars, preservatives, or artificial sweeteners.

Some sweeteners, such as xylitol, are highly toxic to cats and must be strictly avoided. To be safe, it's worth familiarising yourself with a list of human foods that are poisonous to cats.

For this reason, always read the label carefully before offering any to your pet. Keeping it simple, plain, and in very modest quantities is the safest way to ensure that this occasional indulgence does not put your cat’s health at risk.

What kind of milk can cats drink?

Here’s a guide to feline-friendly 'milks' that are safe to give to your cat.

1. Lactose-free cat milk: This type of milk is specially formulated for cats and is a far safer option than standard cow’s milk. Because the lactose has been removed, it is much easier for cats to digest and is far less likely to cause stomach upset. Many brands also add in extra nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, to provide a small nutritional boost. Even so, it should still be given in moderation as a treat rather than a dietary staple.

2. Goat milk (lactose-reduced): Goat milk naturally contains slightly less lactose than cow’s milk, which means it may be gentler on a cat’s digestive system. Some cats may tolerate it better, but it is by no means an essential part of their diet. If your cat is already eating a nutritionally complete cat food, goat milk offers no additional benefit, so at best it should be viewed as an occasional indulgence.

3. Kitten milk formula: Commercially prepared kitten milk replacers are specifically designed for orphaned kittens or those who are unable to nurse from their mother. They are carefully balanced to provide the right levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients that a growing kitten requires. Once a kitten has been weaned onto solid food, however, these formulas are no longer appropriate or necessary.

4. Plain, unsweetened plant milks (such as oat or almond milk): While these are generally safe in tiny amounts, they do not provide anything useful for a cat nutritionally. In fact, they are largely empty calories and can be surprisingly high in carbohydrates, which cats have little need for and can easily contribute to unwanted weight gain. If offered at all, they should be limited to very rare, very small sips only.

What is the closest thing to cat milk?

The gold standard is always commercial kitten formula, such as KMR or Cimicat, which is scientifically tailored to meet the high protein, fat, and calorie needs of growing kittens. Unlike oat milk or other human options, it truly resembles natural feline milk in composition.

Do cats need milk?

The short and simple answer is no, they don’t. Once kittens have been fully weaned from their mother, which usually happens somewhere between eight and 10 weeks of age, they no longer have any biological need for milk in their diet. At this stage, their digestive systems mature and adapt to process solid food, and their nutritional requirements can be fully met by eating a complete and balanced kitten food.

As for adult cats, water is the only liquid they genuinely need to stay healthy and hydrated. Despite the common image of cats happily lapping up a saucer of milk, this is more of a cultural myth than a nutritional necessity.

Many cats are actually lactose intolerant, which means that drinking cow’s milk can result in unpleasant digestive upsets such as diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal discomfort. Even specially formulated lactose-free milks or plant-based alternatives, while usually safer for the digestive system, are not required and do not offer any significant nutritional value.

What they can do, however, is add extra calories that your cat doesn’t really need. These “hidden” calories may seem harmless, but over time they can contribute to gradual weight gain.

Obesity is unfortunately one of the most common health issues I see in practice, and it can lead to serious secondary problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. For that reason, it’s far better to stick with fresh water as the only drink your cat has access to, and keep milk – of any kind – off the menu. Learning how to tell if your cat is obese is a key skill for any owner.

While cats can drink oat milk in small quantities, it adds no real nutritional benefit and is best treated as an occasional novelty – not a regular part of their diet.

Your cat’s hydration and health are best supported by fresh water, a balanced feline diet, and occasionally, a specially formulated cat milk treat. If you're curious to explore more safe feeding habits or treat ideas, make sure to read up on foods your cat shouldn't eat for more insight.

Read next: Should cats drink milk and should kittens drink milk?

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Pica in cats is a surprisingly common, yet often misunderstood, condition where our feline friends develop a tendency to eat non-food items. As a small animal vet with 14 years of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of cats nibbling on weird and wonderful things, including wool, plastic, cardboard, and even shoelaces!

While it might seem quirky or amusing at first, pica can be a serious concern – both from a medical and behavioral point of view. Many owners are unaware their cat has pica until something goes wrong – this could be a blockage, persistent vomiting, or a mysterious disappearance of socks.

Over the years, I’ve had numerous cases come through the consult room door with cats needing x-rays, endoscopy, or even surgery after swallowing something they shouldn’t have. Understanding pica early can make all the difference when it comes to preventing complications.

What is pica in cats?

Pica is the term used to describe the act of eating non-food substances. In cats, this can include a wide variety of materials – from fabric, wool, and plastic to rubber bands, string, paper, and even cat litter. The key difference between pica and normal chewing is ingestion – it’s not just a bit of playful mouthing; cats with pica actively eat these inappropriate items.

This behavior is not limited to kittens, although it often begins when cats are young. It can persist into adulthood and may escalate if not addressed. Some breeds, like the Siamese, seem more predisposed, possibly due to their inquisitive and intelligent nature.

It’s important to note that pica isn’t just “bad behavior.” It can be a sign of an underlying medical, dietary, or psychological issue – and it’s something that needs veterinary attention.

Symptoms of pica in cats

The symptoms of pica can vary depending on what your cat is eating, how often they do it, and whether it’s causing secondary health problems. Look out for the following:

• Chewing or swallowing non-food items (e.g. wool, plastic bags, cardboard, cables)
• Frequent vomiting – especially if non-digestible items are present
• Lethargy or loss of appetite – signs of a possible blockage
• Changes in bowel movements – diarrhea, constipation, or no feces at all
• Abdominal pain or sensitivity
• Unusual interest in specific materials – seeking out and repeatedly chewing one type of object
• Pica behavior triggered by stress - for example, moving house, new pets, or changes in routine

If your cat is showing any of these signs, particularly if they are eating foreign objects or displaying gastrointestinal symptoms, it’s time to get in contact with your vet. Make sure to read up on the important health symptoms you shouldn’t ignore so that you are aware of what to look out for.

Causes of pica in cats

Pica in cats can have a wide range of causes – both physical and psychological. Here are the most common:

• Nutritional deficiencies: Some cats may instinctively try to make up for missing nutrients by eating strange items. A poor-quality diet or unbalanced homemade food can be to blame. Read our top tips on how to improve your cat’s diet.
• Medical issues: Conditions like anemia, gastrointestinal disease (such as inflammatory bowel disease or parasites), or dental disease may lead to pica.
• Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to pica. Siamese and Burmese cats are classic examples.
• Early weaning: Kittens taken away from their mother too early may develop wool-sucking or fabric-chewing behaviors that evolve into pica.
• Stress or anxiety: Major life changes causing stress, boredom, or lack of environmental enrichment, can trigger compulsive behaviors, including pica.
• Attention-seeking: If a cat learns that eating odd things gets a strong reaction from their owner, it may repeat the behavior.
• Compulsive disorder: In rare cases, pica may form part of a feline compulsive behavior condition, similar to OCD in humans.

Getting to the root cause is vital, and often requires a combination of physical examination, lab tests, and a thorough behavioural history.

How do you treat pica in cats?

Treatment for pica in cats will depend entirely on the underlying cause, but here are the key strategies:

• Veterinary assessment: This should always be the first step. Your vet may suggest blood tests, fecal analysis, x-rays, or an ultrasound to rule out physical causes like anemia, parasites, or blockages.
• Dietary review: Ensure your cat is on a complete, balanced diet appropriate for their age and health status. Your vet or a qualified pet nutritionist can help.
• Environmental enrichment: Boredom is a common trigger for pica. Make sure you are providing lots of interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and high spaces to climb and explore. Make sure to schedule lots of regular play sessions to give your cat focused attention.
• Stress reduction: If your cat’s behavior is linked to anxiety, pheromone diffusers (like this one from Amazon), safe hiding spots, and routine-building can help. In some cases, anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a vet may be needed.
• Remove temptation: Keep objects your cat is drawn to out of reach. This includes string, hair ties, plastic bags, electrical cords, and fabric items. Use child locks or storage boxes if needed.
• Positive reinforcement: Never punish a cat for pica. Instead, reward alternative behaviors like playing or using a scratching post.
• Referral to a behaviorist: If your cat’s pica is severe or doesn’t respond to basic management, a referral to a veterinary behaviorist may be the next step.

Prevention is key, and early intervention can stop the behaviour from becoming a long-term habit.

Is pica fatal in cats?

Pica in cats isn’t always life-threatening – but it definitely can be. The main danger is that your cat could ingest something that causes a gastrointestinal blockage, which can be fatal without prompt surgery. I’ve seen cats require emergency procedures after swallowing things like hair bands, ribbon, string, and even chunks of rubber matting.

Other risks include choking, toxic exposure (if they chew on harmful materials), and damage to the teeth or digestive tract. Chronic pica can also be distressing for owners and lead to strained relationships with their pets if the behavior isn’t understood.

If your cat has already swallowed something they shouldn’t have – particularly string-like items – do not try to pull it out. Instead, contact your vet immediately. These cases are classed as emergencies. In milder cases, pica can be managed successfully with lifestyle changes, behavioral support, and close monitoring. The sooner it’s addressed, the better the outcome for your cat.

Pica in cats is more than just a quirky habit – it’s a complex behavior that often stems from medical, dietary, or emotional needs. With the right diagnosis and support, many cats can overcome or manage their pica safely. If you suspect your cat may be displaying signs of pica, don’t ignore it – speak to your vet and take action early.

A little awareness goes a long way when it comes to protecting your curious cat from their own mischievous appetite.

Read next: Weird cat behaviors explained and why cats eat hair

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Gingivitis in cats is one of the most common dental problems seen in general practice, yet it’s often misunderstood or missed by owners until the condition becomes severe. As a small animal vet with 14 years of experience, I’ve helped lots of cats with dental disease, and gingivitis is almost always where it starts.

Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the gums, and while it may seem mild at first, it can lead to significant discomfort and more serious oral health issues if left untreated. The good news is, with the right management and care, it can often be controlled and even reversed.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about gingivitis in cats – from the early warning signs to the best treatment options – with practical advice from clinical experience. Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you protect your feline friend’s pearly whites.

What is gingivitis in cats?

Gingivitis in cats is the inflammation of the gums (gingiva) that surround and support the teeth. It’s typically caused by a build-up of plaque – a soft, sticky film made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles – on the surface of your cat’s teeth. If not regularly removed, this plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which further irritates the gums and worsens the inflammation.

In the early stages, gingivitis may just affect the gumline. Owners may notice redness, swelling, and bleeding around the teeth. But if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the structures supporting the teeth, like ligaments and bone, become damaged. This stage is often irreversible and can lead to tooth loss.

Some cats also develop a more severe form of gum disease called stomatitis, where inflammation extends deeper into the mouth and causes widespread pain.

How do I tell if my cat has gingivitis?

Cats are incredibly stoic creatures, and they often hide signs of pain. That’s why gingivitis can easily go unnoticed until it’s quite advanced. Look out for these common signs:

• Red, swollen gums, especially around the base of the teeth
• Bleeding gums are often noticed during eating or when chewing on toys
• Bad breath (halitosis) is a telltale sign of oral bacteria
• Drooling or saliva with traces of blood
• Difficulty eating, chewing on one side, or dropping food
• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
• Decreased appetite or weight loss
• Changes in behavior, such as being more withdrawn or irritable

What causes gingivitis in cats?

There are several underlying causes of gingivitis in cats, and often it’s a combination of factors. Here are the most common:

There are several underlying causes of gingivitis in cats, and often it’s a combination of factors. Here are the most common:

• Dental plaque and tartar: These are the number one causes. If plaque isn’t removed through regular cleaning, it calcifies into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection.
• Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS): This is an immune-mediated condition where the cat’s immune system overreacts to plaque, causing severe and painful inflammation in the gums and mouth.
• Viral infections: Viruses like feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) can all contribute to gingivitis and stomatitis. Luckily, some of these can be vaccinated against. Vaccinations are very important for our pets.
• Tooth resorption: A common and painful condition in cats where the tooth structure breaks down, exposing sensitive dentin and leading to secondary gum inflammation.
• Poor oral hygiene: Just like in humans, cats need regular dental care. Lack of brushing, dental diets, or professional cleaning leads to rapid plaque accumulation.
• Genetic predisposition: Some breeds, such as Abyssinians, Siamese, and Persians, are more prone to dental issues, including gingivitis.
• Diet: Soft or wet food diets don’t provide the abrasive action needed to help keep teeth clean, which can contribute to plaque build-up.

How do you treat gingivitis in cats?

The treatment for gingivitis in cats depends on the underlying cause and severity. Here's how it is typically managed:

• Professional dental cleaning: A full dental scale and polish performed under general anaesthesia is usually the first step. This allows your vet to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and assess each tooth for disease.
• Tooth extraction: If teeth are loose, damaged, or contributing to chronic inflammation, they may need to be removed. Cats can do very well without several or even all of their teeth, and it often significantly improves their quality of life.
• Medical treatment: Anti-inflammatory medication (such as corticosteroids or NSAIDs), antibiotics, or immune-modulating drugs may be used, particularly in cases like FCGS. Your vet will tailor a treatment plan based on your cat’s individual needs.
• Ongoing dental hygiene: At-home care is crucial for long-term success. This includes keeping your cat’s teeth clean, brushing your cat’s teeth with a pet-safe toothpaste, offering dental chews or diets, and regular vet checks.

Can gingivitis be treated at home?

Mild cases of gingivitis can sometimes be managed at home with daily tooth brushing and dental-friendly products. However, once tartar is present, it can only be removed professionally. Never attempt DIY dental scaling – this can cause pain and damage the teeth.

Home care is essential after professional treatment to prevent recurrence. There are many products that help, including:

• Pet toothbrushes and pet toothpaste, learning how to brush your cat’s teeth can make a huge difference.
• Dental diets (like Hill’s t/d)
• Water additives
• Dental gels and sprays

What happens if you don't treat gingivitis in cats?

If left untreated, gingivitis in cats can progress to periodontal disease, leading to:

• Chronic pain
• Tooth loss
• Oral infections that can spread to other parts of the body
• Poor general health due to inflammation
• Weight loss and reduced quality of life
• Increased veterinary costs in the long term

Early intervention is always best. Even if your cat isn’t showing obvious signs, regular dental checks can help catch issues before they become serious.

Read more here on fascinating facts about cat’s teeth or four ways to prevent gingivitis that I'd wish I'd known sooner

Edited by Megan Milstead.

This page was last updated in July 2025 by Emma Chandley.

Before my cat Nala was diagnosed with gingivitis, I had no idea how important it was to brush her teeth. The idea of sticking a mint-flavored toothbrush in her mouth sounded like a recipe for disaster – and a painful bite!

Gingivitis, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by a buildup of bacterial plaque and tartar, with symptoms like swollen, red gums and bad breath. Old age, crowded cat teeth, and autoimmune diseases can be contributing factors, as well as a lack of proper dental care or conditions like diabetes in cats.

Thankfully, Nala's vet told us that she didn't have any underlying health conditions and that it's just something that can happen as a cat gets older. We had her teeth professionally cleaned, and were advised to keep on top of her dental health with regular toothbrushing sessions.

I was skeptical that Nala would let me go near her mouth with a toothbrush, but after gradually introducing it to her (and lots of positive reinforcement with the best cat treats), I managed to brush them for short sessions.

Why should you brush your cat's teeth?

Since gingivitis can cause pain and discomfort for your cat, it's important to address it sooner rather than later, before it develops into a more serious dental problem. It might also be a sign of an underlying health condition, so regular check-ups are essential.

Learning how to brush your cat's teeth is a big part of it, but Dr Coder says you should always check with your vet first to determine if there are any other issues that need to be treated beforehand.

She explains: "Gingivitis can be an indicator of more serious disease, or left untreated, can lead your cat to develop other dental problems, so always work with your veterinarian to provide your cat the best oral care possible.

"If your cat has gingivitis, be sure to check with your vet to ensure there is not a more serious problem in her mouth. Often, there is plaque, tartar, or infection under the gums that must be treated or removed before you can start home care.

"There are also some disease processes that cause severe gingivitis in the absence of actual tooth problems. Once the underlying cause has been treated, prevention of disease can be assisted with at-home care."

How to brush your cat's teeth

Don't worry if you've never brushed your cat's teeth before – Dr Coder has shared her top tips for making things easier:

1. Get your cat used to the toothbrush
Before you do anything, you'll want to get your cat accustomed to the toothbrush by touching their face and mouth with it. Alternatively, you could dip a cotton swab in tuna water and use treats as rewards to make the experience more enjoyable.

2. Choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste
Never give your cat human toothpaste, as it contains toxic ingredients like fluoride. You can buy pet-friendly toothpastes – some even come in flavors like chicken and beef, which can make the process more enjoyable.

Dr Coder says: "Use products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) that have been evaluated by veterinary professionals to ensure safety and efficacy."

3. Start slowly
It's OK if you can't brush your cat's mouth completely; just start slowly with one or two sections at a time.

Dr Coder says, "Work your way up to the full mouth if you can, but even if you can only get one part done each session, it is still better than not brushing at all."

4. Reward your cat
Last but not least, be sure to reward your cat with food or treats after each brushing session – even if it didn’t feel like you got much done!

Cats are masters at hiding pain, and I had no idea that Nala was secretly suffering from gingivitis – and I’m not alone, upto 85% of cats live with dental disears and many owners are unaware. That’s why regular check-ups and frequent brushing are always important to keep their teeth and gums in tip-top condition.

Want to learn more? Read our expert guides on stomatitis in cats and keeping cat teeth clean. Or if you're planning on getting your feline's teeth professionally cleaned, check out these top tips for keeping your cat calm at the vet

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

Every cat parent wants the best for their feline friends, and the way animal healthcare is evolving is allowing us to take even better care of them.

From everyday decisions like buying the best cat food for senior cats to deciding on more complex treatments and surgeries, we always have their best interests at heart.

However, even the most experienced cat parent may not know that joint issues are surprisingly common in cats, with up to 40% experiencing joint stiffness and a huge 90% of cats over the age of 12 developing joint changes, such as arthritis. We often don’t realize that anything’s wrong, either, because cats conceal discomfort so well.

That’s why YuMove, the UK’s number one vet-recommended joint supplement brand has launched C.A.T.S.C.A.N, which is a tool that will help us detect the hidden signs of joint stiffness in our cats without even leaving the house in a global first.

Created in conjunction with veterinarian and TikTok ‘petspert’ Cat the Vet, it works as a virtual CT scan – simply look at your cat and work your way through the checklist.

"A cat with occasional joint stiffness isn’t living their best life – these are creatures built to climb, chase, catch, and move with grace,” says Fiona Hope, YuMove CEO. “The signs can be hard to spot, but with the C.A.T.S.C.A.N, we’re giving owners the confidence to recognize them early and get their cats the help they need."

Here’s how to do the C.A.T.S.C.A.N at home

• C – Coat and claws: Cats with joint stiffness can find grooming themselves more difficult, so look for greasy or matted fur, particularly around the hips, as well as overgrown or brittle claws – they may scratch less.
• A – Activity changes: If your cat seems less mobile or has changed their routines, perhaps not following you upstairs, it might be because of their joints rather than simply older age.
• T – Tummies: As cats age, they often move less and then gain weight – potentially making them overweight. This can put more pressure on their joints, catching them in a vicious cycle.
• S – Sleeping more: If your cat sleeps more and tends to wake only for meals, it may be because of their joints.
• C – Climbing issues: If cats seem slower or more hesitant to jump, it might be a sign that they’re experiencing joint changes.
• A – Accidents: A cat who has started missing the litter tray or having accidents, it might mean that they need more joint support.
• N – Not themselves: Slight personality changes can indicate joint issues. So, if your cat is more anxious, clingy, or irritable, or just seems a little ‘off’, this might be why.

If, after giving your feline a C.A.T.S.C.A.N, you feel like they might have joint issues or you have any other concerns, it’s best to consult your vet. They can help you explore the next steps to keep your cat as happy and healthy as possible.

As Cat the Vet explains: “This tool makes it easy for anyone in the household to pick up on those subtle shifts in behavior that might otherwise be dismissed as aging or personality changes. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it might be time for a check-up."

Read next: 32 tips for taking care of senior cats

Cats can suffer from many of the same health conditions as we do, but high blood pressure is one we don’t often think about when it comes to our animals.

However, it’s relatively common, and affects senior cats in particular. In fact, one in five cats over the age of nine has high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and we often simply won’t realize that our cats are affected. It can’t be managed solely by giving them the best cat food for senior cats, so what else can we do?

Well, with May being Feline Hypertension Awareness Month, Jimmy Bratley, veterinary practitioner for Feliway, has explained what we need to do about the condition and how we can help our beloved cats.

High blood pressure in cats is often referred to as the “silent killer” because of a lack of early physical symptoms, but it’s potentially life-threatening. While it’s relatively common in older cats, and is treatable with medication, 82% of senior cats don’t receive blood pressure checks.

"Signs associated with feline hypertension can be insidious and vague, especially to start with,” says Bratley. “The clinical signs we see associated with this condition relate to the organs that are damaged due to the persistently elevated blood pressure, known as target organ damage.”

He explains that damage to the central nervous system as a result can result in behavioral changes, potentially including the following:

• Disorientation
• Lethargy
• Sleeping more
• Increased vocalization
• Being unco-ordinated or ‘wobbly’

Meanwhile, the eyes are sometimes also affected, leading to blindness, as are the kidneys, which can mean your cat is more thirsty, urinates more frequently, and may lose weight or eat less.

High blood pressure in cats can’t be managed with diet, according to Bratley, as he explains that the evidence suggests restricting salt alone won’t help bring blood pressure down.

“Hypertensive patients should be fed a good quality veterinary formulated diet, without excessive salt, that factors in other patient-specific factors, such as underlying or concurrent diseases and palatability,” he says. “Fundamentally, their condition will only be adequately controlled using anti-hypertensive medication."

To get your cat’s blood pressure checked, you can take them to a vet. The process is similar to that of taking the blood pressure of a human, but of course with adjustments that take into account the smaller size and different body of a cat.

For more advice on caring for older felines, here are 32 tips for taking care of senior cats

If you were to list health conditions that affect cats, diabetes might not be near the top of your list. While it’s a relatively common condition for humans, with millions in the US alone affected, we don’t often think diabetes in cats.

However, it’s estimated that as many as one in 100 cats could have diabetes, requiring special diets and medication. Cat diabetes is reminiscent of Type 2 diabetes in humans, where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t respond properly to the insulin produced.

That’s why some cat parents in the UK are raising awareness of the condition and how it can affect cats. Emma Damen’s cat, Woody, was diagnosed in 2023 after she noticed that he was drinking constantly and losing a lot of weight. She was unaware at the time that these are common signs a cat is diabetic.

"He lost all the muscles in his back legs – it was horrible to see – his legs were shaking," she told BBC News. “He had a blood test, and the vets called us back to say he had diabetes. I had never heard of diabetes in cats."

Damen, who described caring for Woody as a “full-time job”, was unable to insure Woody and so couldn’t claim back the cost of his medication, food, and blood tests, which cost up to £80 (more than $100) a month.

The cat mom, who lives in the town of Andover in the south of the UK, added, “I don't think anyone realizes the impact it does have on your life. I have to inject him twice a day at specific times, otherwise he will be poorly. I have my alarm on my smartwatch, so I don't miss it.”

Stacey Goddard, who lives in nearby Bishop’s Waltham, compared caring for her diabetic cat, Buddy, to “having three children,” but added: “He is family, so I wouldn't have it any other way.”

Buddy was adopted by Goddard in 2017 and diagnosed with diabetes a year later after she noticed that he was very lethargic, sleeping all day, and not eating much. He needs injections twice a day, keeps to a strict diet, and wears a monitor that monitors his sugar intake.

Among the most common symptoms of diabetes in cats are increased appetite, drinking a lot of water, increased urination, and weight loss.

In more advanced stages, cats can develop weakness in their rear, a form of diabetic neuropathy, and can become unwell with diabetic ketoacidosis, a metabolic condition. This can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, lethargy, and death.

If you’re concerned that your cat may be showing signs of diabetes, speak to your vet. With the right care, your feline can still go on to live a happy, relatively healthy, life. For more advice and support, head to Diabetic Cat International’s website and the Feline Diabetes Support Group on Facebook.

Knowing the signs that your cat is diabetic might just save their life. Diabetes mellitus is not just a human condition – our feline companions can also suffer from it. In fact, diagnoses of diabetes in cats are increasing, especially among older and overweight cats. Nearly 1% of cats are affected by this chronic condition.

Vet, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, explains how diabetes affects the cat: “Insulin is a hormone that helps us to absorb glucose and use it in cells around the body for energy, allowing them to carry out normal processes like growth and repair.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common signs of feline diabetes so you can recognize the red flags before the condition progresses. Being informed could save your cat’s life – and improve their quality of it.

What is diabetes in cats

“Feline diabetes occurs when a cat’s pancreas no longer produces enough insulin or because their body has become resistant to the effects of insulin."

Dr. MacMillan goes on to say, “A diabetic cat is not able to control its blood glucose (blood sugar) levels properly, leading to hyperglycemia. A cat with hyperglycemia has dangerously high levels of glucose in their blood with not enough getting to their cells."

This can affect nearly every organ over time. While a diabetes diagnosis sounds alarming, many cats go on to live healthy, happy lives with proper treatment, diet, and monitoring. While some cats can go into remission with super-prompt treatment, most will require lifelong management.

Unfortunately, because cats are masters at hiding discomfort, the early signs often go unnoticed. As Dr MacMillan warns, “It is important to be aware of the symptoms of diabetes as cats can become seriously unwell if their condition is left untreated.”

10 signs that your cat is diabetic

1. Increased thirst

In a cat with diabetes, the pancreas cannot secrete sufficient insulin to control their blood sugar. This means the glucose draws water into the urine, causing the cat to become thirsty as they try to keep up with the fluid loss.

Monitor your cat if you think they are drinking a lot of water. You may notice they need their water bowl filling more often, or they are desperate to drink from puddles or even toilet bowls.

Cats tend to get the majority of their fluid from wet food, so if they seem much more thirsty than is normal for them, it could signal something is amiss.

The medical terms for excessive thirst is polydipsia.

2. Increased urination

Increased urination (polyuria) is a telltale sign of feline diabetes. The high blood sugar levels means that the large glucose concentration in the urine will pull excessive amounts of water with it, leading to a larger volume and increased peeing.

A cat owner may notice that the litter tray has more wet patches, or the cat may have accidents.

The increased urination makes the cat prone to dehydration and very thirsty.

3. Increased hunger

“Cats with diabetes feel like they are starving!” says Dr Rebecca MacMillan. “Their body is not able to make proper use of the food they are eating, so their organs are not receiving enough energy. This sends signals telling the cat to eat more.”

Because of the glucose deprivation, the body will use up fat and protein, which will also lead to increased appetite. This insatiable hunger is called polyphagia.

4. Weight loss

Often, despite an insatiable appetite, diabetes is a common cause of weight loss in cats. This is due to the fact that glucose from food eaten is not processed effectively and does not reach the cells.

This means that the body starts to burn up other energy sources, such as protein and fat, triggering weight loss.

5. Poor coat condition

A luxuriant coat is often a cat’s most impressive feature. However, with feline diabetes, the coat is likely to suffer. It may turn rough, oily, or dull, and may show dandruff.

A poor coat may be due to nutrient deficiencies as the cat is unable to absorb as much from his food as he should due to his compromised system.

He may also be dehydrated due to excessive urination, while lethargy may mean he has less energy for daily grooming to keep his coat in tiptop condition.

6. Urinary infections

Cats with diabetes are prone to urinary tract infections.

“An abnormal amount of sugar (glucose) is excreted through the kidneys into the urine, providing optimum conditions for bacteria to multiply,” explains Dr Rebecca MacMillan.

“This can lead to symptoms like blood in the urine, starting to urinate, visiting the litter box multiple times, and urinary accidents.”

Add to this the fact that a diabetic cat has a weaker immune system, and therefore they are more susceptible to infections in general.

7. Muscle wasting

Muscle wasting – also called atrophy – occurs in diabetic cats due to their inability to convert glucose to energy. Instead, their body breaks down proteins and fats to compensate. This leads not only to them losing weight, but decreasing muscle mass.

Bear in mind that diabetes is more common in overweight to obese cats, so it isn’t always straightforward to spot the muscle wastage.

8. Vomiting

Many cats vomit fairly frequently due to ingesting hair while grooming, and this regurgitation is rarely a cause for concern. However, vomiting in cats can be a symptom of feline diabetes, indicating that their blood sugar regulation is not under control.

It may signal that they are developing the life-threatening condition of diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of the disease when the blood sugar remains dangerously high, and the liver goes into overdrive.

9. Weakness or gait changes

As diabetic cats struggle to control their blood sugar – and therefore energy output – naturally, weakness is a common symptom. You may notice that your cat has become less active and playful, seeming uncharacteristically disinterested.

Weakness may also be due to muscle atrophy, diabetic neuropathy, and hunger, which are related symptoms.

Vet Dr. Rebecca Macmillan explains what causes the change in gait, where a cat will walk on his heels and ankles, rather than paws: “High levels of sugar in the blood can lead to chronic nerve degeneration in a cat’s hind legs. This nerve damage causes weakness and changes the cat’s mobility, including a flat-footed stance.”

10. Collapse

Collapse can occur if the blood sugar is not sufficiently controlled. It may be due to either high or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia). Diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of diabetes, can also lead to collapse.

In a diagnosed diabetic cat, watch out for vomiting as well as the other symptoms that show the blood sugar is fluctuating. It is considered a medical emergency.

What to read next? Diabetes in dogs

It’s no secret that cats are very good at cleaning and grooming themselves, and this adds to the idea that cats are quite self-sufficient.

However, one vet has warned that more cats than we think struggle with dental issues that often go undetected. Because we often assume that our cats are looking after their own mouths, eating the right food, and cleaning themselves, we don’t brush our cats’ teeth.

However, recent research has indicated that 85% of cats aged three and above in the UK live with dental disease, such as stomatitis – around 1.8 million cats have decayed teeth but don’t show any symptoms.

According to the Royal Veterinary College, periodontal disease is the most common illness to be diagnosed in UK cats, with 15.2% of cats affected. However, this figure could be higher, as most cases aren’t diagnosed – cats have a great ability to suppress chronic pain, so it’s vital to keep cat teeth clean.

Dr Aimee Warner, resident vet at UK-based pet insurance company Waggel, explains that while many dog owners also forget about dental care, “dogs let you examine their mouths or show signs of discomfort, but cats are masters at hiding pain.

“Many owners have no idea their cat is suffering from painful dental conditions until the disease is advanced. By the time obvious symptoms arise, the damage is already extensive and costly to treat.”

Dental issues can impact our felines’ overall health, too. They can potentially lead to kidney, liver, and heart disease when mouth bacteria enter the bloodstream.

So, Dr Warner recommends scheduling twice-yearly dental assessments, even if your cat seems fine otherwise, and keeping an eye out for subtle signs of dental pain like pawing at the mouth, dropping food, bad breath, and reduced grooming.

Watch out for changes in eating habits, too, as this can often be the first indication that there’s something wrong, and consider incorporating dental-specific diets and treats.

If you have any concerns at all, you should speak to your vet. Dr Warner urges us to trust our instincts when it comes to our cat's teeth, particularly as the first signs can be very subtle.

She sums up: “Cats are genetically programmed to conceal pain – in the wild, displaying weakness puts them at risk. This means your cat may have been suffering in silence for months or years before showing visible signs of dental disease.

“Regular veterinary examinations are crucial as they can spot problems your cat is instinctively trying to conceal from you. Preventative dental treatment does more than save you money over the years; it prevents unnecessary suffering and can add years to your pet's life and quality to those years."

Want to learn more? Here are eight facts about cat teeth, plus some kitten teething advice from a vet

Obesity in cats can have major consequences on their health and quality of life and can result in conditions like cancer, arthritis, and diabetes.

With more than 60% of cats in the US being obese, this is a growing problem that pet owners should take seriously – especially as it can significantly reduce a cat's lifespan by up to 10 years.

Sometimes, our feline friends just don't know how to say no to the best cat food or best cat treats, leading to overfeeding by well-meaning owners. This, combined with a lack of exercise, contributes to inevitable weight gain.

If you want to learn more about obesity in cats – including the causes, treatment, and how much your cat should really weigh – vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan has explained everything you need to know below.

How much should my cat weigh?

While most average domestic short-haired cats should weigh around 4kg, a cat's ideal body weight depends on its breed and sex, explains Dr. MacMillan.

Every pet parent knows that weighing an animal is no easy feat, which is why it can help to have one of the best scales for pets to make the job easier and more accurate. To help your cat build positive associations with the scale, try rewarding them with their favorite toy after each measurement.

Dr. MacMillan says: "I always tell owners that regularly body condition scoring their cat is the best way of determining whether they are maintaining an ideal bodyweight or not."

Body condition scoring is a way of assessing your pet's body fat and giving it a score from one the nine. This is based on how your pet looks and feels and is compared to a chart (which we'll get into later).

When is a cat considered obese?

There are two ways to tell if your cat is obese: a high body condition score or if they are more than 20% above their ideal body weight.

Dr. MacMillan says, "Your cat’s body condition can be given a number from one to nine, with one being severely emaciated and nine being morbidly obese. A normal cat with a healthy weight should be a four or a five."

Here’s a simple breakdown of what these scores look like, according to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association's guide:

Under ideal

Ideal

Over ideal

Dr. MacMillan adds, "Overweight and obese cats lose their natural body shape. Instead of having a clearly defined waist just behind their ribcage, an overweight cat will appear rounded. Try looking at your cat from above and the side to see if you can clearly identify an abdominal tuck or their waist.

"Obese cats will develop fatty deposits in their lower abdomen, sometimes referred to as ‘fat pads’. You will also struggle to feel the ribs easily in an overweight cat, and if they creep into obesity, it can be a struggle to feel their spine properly, too. In morbidly obese cats, their head almost appears too small for their body due to the amount of fat deposits in their abdomen, trunk, and limbs."

How do you treat obesity in cats?

If your cat is obese, they need to be treated through a carefully controlled weight loss program design for cats, according to Dr. MacMillan. This involves gradually reducing their calorie intake and introducing gentle activity and exercise into their routine.

She says: "It is important not to overdo things, as dramatically cutting a cat’s food could lead to undesirable begging or scavenging behavior, as well as putting your cat at risk from a dangerous condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).

"Slow, steady, and sustainable is key. Most veterinary practices run weight loss clinics to help guide owners through the changes they need to make. This will help give you and your cat manageable targets and advice on how to make weight loss a success."

If your cat is suffering from other health conditions, such as pain from arthritis, it can be a good idea to treat those at the same time to help them move more freely and encourage weight loss.

What is the life expectancy of an obese cat?

While a healthy cat’s lifespan can be up to 15 years, some obese cats may only live five to 10 years, and being overweight could reduce their lifespan by around two years.

Dr. MacMillan adds: "Obese cats are at greater risk of serious health issues such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, urinary disorders, and heart conditions. I also see many overweight and obese cats who are struggling with painful joints due to the abnormal pressure put on them."

What causes obesity in cats?

The main cause of obesity in cats is an inappropriate diet that exceeds their daily calorie allowance. However, genetics, activity levels, and neuter status can contribute towards weight gain.

Dr. MacMillan says, "Weight gain is more likely in sedentary cats, not only because they are not exercising as much but also because boredom can drive them to eat more. This is why house cats are more likely to be overweight than outdoor cats."

How do you prevent obesity in cats?

1. Follow feeding guidelines
If you're unsure how much to feed your cat, take a look at their food manufacturer's guidelines, which will tell you the amount based on their ideal body weight.

2. Measure their food
Dr. MacMillan advises measuring your cat's food with kitchen scales, as opposed to by cups or a hand, which can be inaccurate: "Even minor variations could cause weight gain over time."

3. Stop topping up their food bowl
Since many cats are unable to self-regulate, avoid topping up their food bowl when it looks empty. Free feeding can lead to overeating and weight gain, which is why scheduled feeding can be a better choice.

4. Be cautious with treats and tidbits
Treats and tidbits might feel insignificant and small, but they all add up to their daily calorie allowance and can result in unwanted weight gain.

5. Encourage activity
To keep your cat physically and mentally healthy, ensure you're engaging in regular play sessions with the best interactive cat toys. Dr. MacMillan also advises using the best cat puzzle feeders to slow down their eating and get them to work for their food.

6. Vet check-ups
Dr. MacMillan says, "Regular check-ups with the vet will help to ensure your cat is maintaining a healthy body weight. They will weight your pet on the scales but also assess their body condition score, giving you some reassurance that they are doing OK."

Read next: How to improve your cat's diet and how to tell if your kitten is overweight

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

The ongoing bird flu outbreak continues to concern officials with the New York City Health Department issuing warnings to cat parents not to feed their pets raw cat food from Savage Cat Food.

This comes after three cats were infected with bird flu over the past two months, with all three cases potentially connected to the company’s food, according to officials. The lot number for the packages concerned is 11152026.

NYC Health Department Acting Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said, via FOX 5, “We strongly encourage New Yorkers whose cats are experiencing illness after consuming Savage Cat Food products or other raw meat or dairy products to contact their vet.”

Health officials reported that one cat fell ill after eating Savage Cat Food, displaying signs of bird flu in cats, including fever, appetite loss and respiratory difficulties. It was confirmed to be bird flu, and the cat later died as a result.

Another cat also died due to the virus after showing symptoms of fever, respiratory difficulties and liver disease. Testing indicated that the cat was infected with a strain of bird flu related to the one found in Savage Cat Food. Per the officials, the cat didn’t actually consume the food themselves but was exposed to a sick cat – the third cat who fell ill.

This cat developed a fever after eating Savage Cat Food but went on to survive. This cat wasn’t tested for bird flu, but it’s thought that they had the virus given that the other cat exposed to them tested positive.

The Health Department has been in contact with cat owners, veterinary staff and Savage Pet Food.

Meanwhile, officials in New Jersey have also confirmed that bird flu has been detected in a number of outdoor cats in Hunterdon County, and Wild Coast Raw food has been recalled following cases of bird flu in Oregon and Washington as part of the ongoing outbreak.

If you have any concerns about your own cat, it’s important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. As well as fever, loss of appetite and respiratory difficulty, symptoms to watch out for include lethargy, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the ears and nose, and neurological issues like tremors and seizures – take a look at these 11 signs to take your cat to the vet, too.

To minimize the risk of bird flu, avoid feeding your cats raw food or unpasteurized dairy products. Looking to swap your cat’s food? Here’s our guide to the best dry cat foods on the market.

Bird flu has been in the news a lot in recent weeks with cats in the Pacific Northwest falling ill and in some cases sadly being euthanized.

The outbreak began back in March 2024 in dairy cattle, but this year the US Food and Drug Administration has had to recall raw cat food products following the deaths of cats in Oregon and Washington who had bird flu. Indeed, feeding cats raw meat and milk can increase the risk of bird flu, as can contact with sick or dead birds and wildlife.

With bird flu being quite rare – dozens of cats have been diagnosed since March 2024 out of millions kept as pets in the US – we don’t always know as much as we’d like to about it. If you’re hoping to find out more about bird flu, you’re not alone.

We’ve put together this guide to the symptoms, causes, risks, and treatment options, with some all-valuable advice from our in-house vet, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan. Together, we can help keep ourselves and our beloved felines as safe and healthy as possible

How do cats get bird flu?

First of all, what is bird flu? Also known as avian influenza, it’s a disease caused by the influenza A virus. It primarily affects birds but can affect other animals, including humans, cats, and cattle, depending on the strain. One strain of the virus, H5N1, can affect mammals, and this is the strain that’s the subject of the current outbreak.

"The risk of most cats getting bird flu is small, as common garden birds have a lower risk of being infected than wildfowl like ducks, gulls, swans or geese,” explains Dr. MacMillan, which goes some way to explain why it’s so rare.

The risk of getting bird flu increases if your cat eats raw meat or unpasteurized milk, or has exposure to farm animals who are infected. Exposure to people who work on farms with infected animals, and their clothing, can also increase the risk – we don’t know whether human-to-cat transmission definitely happens, but two cats in Michigan who lived in homes with dairy farm workers caught the infection last year, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggesting that it could be a possibility.

To reduce the risk, avoid feeding raw cat food and unpasteurized dairy products, and make sure you thoroughly cook any meat before you give it to your cat. As much as you can, keep your cat away from livestock and poultry, particularly if you live in an area with a bird flu outbreak – if your cat is currently an outdoor cat, you might consider keeping them inside.

Do your best to avoid contact with sick or dead birds or wild animals yourself, and wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with poultry, livestock, or wild animals. Change your clothes and shoes and wash any exposed skin after interacting with sick or dead animals, and before you interact with your cat.

There are currently no commercial vaccines against bird flu for cats, but it’s hoped that there may be one in the future.

Signs of bird flu in cats

Dr. MacMillan outlines some common signs, as follows:

• Loss of appetite/not eating
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Circling
• Twitching
• Blindness
• Seizures
• Breathing issues
• Discharge from eyes and nose

However, she explains, “These signs are not specific to bird flu and are not in themselves diagnostic. Your vet may be suspicious but would need to perform some tests to work out what is going on.”

If you are concerned that your cat may have bird flu, contact your vet for advice and limit your cat’s exposure to you, your family, and other pets. This is particularly important if you have any immunocompromised loved ones.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the risk of cat-to-human transmission is low, but could increase with more prolonged exposure to infected cats, so it’s best to be cautious. If anyone does become ill, it’s important to report it to your local public health official.

How is bird flu diagnosed?

Diagnosing bird flu in cats can be tricky, and you can expect your vet to explore your cat’s history to work out if they could have been in contact with sick birds or raw milk or meat before performing a physical exam to look for common signs of bird flu.

Your vet may collect samples to send to a laboratory to confirm that your cat has bird flu or to rule out other potential causes. Sadly, bird flu is often only diagnosed after a cat has died from the virus.

Can bird flu in cats be treated?

There’s no specific cure for bird flu in cats, but your cat may require a stay at the vet to receive intravenous fluids if dehydrated, as well as antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. If seizures are a symptom your cat presents with, anti-seizure medication may be given, too.

Your cat will need to be kept in isolation and staff will wear protective equipment when handling them, to both reduce the risk to them and minimize the chance of the virus spreading to other patients. Your vet will need to report the case of bird flu to a state animal health official, too.

Unfortunately, bird flu can be life-threatening, and almost seven out of 10 (67%) affected cats die, per the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health. While we can’t totally eliminate the risk of bird flu – particularly with no commercial vaccines available – it’s important that we try our best to keep our cats from becoming infected in the first place.

Above all, if you have any concerns about bird flu, it’s best to contact your vet straight away.

If you’d like to find out more about feline health, take a look at our list of the most common illnesses in cats. And, here are five diseases you could catch from your cat or dog.

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has issued another raw cat food recall amid the ongoing bird flu outbreak in the US.

Almost two weeks after the first voluntary recall of Wild Coast Raw food, two cats in different households in Washington tested positive for bird flu. One cat was euthanized, while the other had to spend time under veterinary care.

Two lots of raw food products from Wild Coast Raw came under the voluntary recall, but it’s not known whether the cases in Washington are linked to the recalled items or not.

Now, Wild Coast has recalled further products, identified by lot numbers #22653, #22641, #22639, and #22672, all with a best-buy date of December 2025, along with #22660 and #22664 – as they all share similar production dates. The recalled products are all in small round white plastic containers with green labels.

Two of Christine Knopp’s 11 cats had to be euthanized after eating raw pet food, with another requiring a stay in intensive care. All of the cats who had eaten raw pet food later tested positive, with only one, who was kept apart from the others and fed canned food, remaining negative.

Knopp, who lives in Portland, Oregon, and breeds and shows Cornish Rex cats, has fed her pets raw cat food for years, and believed that the Wild Coast food was being testing for bird flu.

She told The Guardian, “I’ve since learned, I don’t think there’s really a safe way to trust if someone says they’re testing it,” she said. She’s now switched to canned food for all of her cats.

The USFDA, meanwhile, told cat parents: “People who fed pets the recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu in their pets, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, and neurological signs like tremors, stiff body movements, seizure, lack of coordination, or blindness. People with pets exhibiting these signs after feeding this product should contact their veterinarian.”

Here are 11 more signs to take your cat to the vet, too, because it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

No human infections have been identified as a result of handling the recalled products, but people should wash their hands after handling raw pet food and sanitize contact surfaces.

“People who handled contaminated products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, sneezing, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, trouble breathing, seizures, rash, diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting,” per USFDA advice.

Looking to swap your cat’s food? Here’s our guide to the best dry cat foods on the market

Did you know that cats can have asthma?

We usually think of asthma as being a ‘human’ condition, but feline asthma exists and is often triggered by allergies to things like dust or cat litter – so even making sure you’re using the best cat litter could help. And one cat parent has taken to TikTok to let others know how she found out her own cat has the condition.

The account @lifewithmaple_ posted a video of a cat, Maple, in which she’s coughing repeatedly as you may expect a cat to do if they had a hairball. However, nothing comes out.

Text overlaid onto the clip reads, “Cat owners, this is what feline asthma looks like,” while the cat parent adds in the caption, "I thought she had a fur ball but after looking more into it, thanks to TikTok we found out Maple has asthma. In case you don't know what it looks like, here you go.”

Indeed, coughing is one symptom of feline asthma. If you’re asking questions like, ‘Why is my cat coughing?’ it’s important to know that any irritation to their lungs or airways can cause coughing, with irritants and allergens sometimes causing asthma.

Cat panting can be a sign of asthma too, while shortness of breath, an extended neck and hunched posture, tiredness, and reluctance to play can all be symptoms too.

In severe cases of asthma, you may find that your cat’s gums are a blueish color, due to the lack of oxygen.

Among the potential allergens to trigger asthma in your cat include pollen, grass, mold, dust, tobacco smoke, cat litter, and cleaning products. Avoiding irritants can help you support your cat if they have asthma, while there are also various treatments they can have. Oxygen therapy can be effective, as can the use of bronchodilators to widen their airways and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

If you think your cat may have asthma, a trip to the vet can help you find out – as well as rule out other potential conditions, like lungworm, heart disease, and respiratory infections.

If your cat seems to be having difficulty breathing and you can see their sides heaving in and out, however, they could be having an asthma attack, and you should seek veterinary attention immediately. Try to keep them as calm as you can, as stress can make an asthma attack worse.

Meanwhile, here are four things you can do about common allergies in cats. And, here are the important signs of pain in cats to watch out for.

Adopting an older cat is one of the best things a pet parent can do – there’s lots of demand for kittens, but there are cats of all ages who need forever homes.

One 13-year-old cat has found a forever home of his own, giving him the chance to live out the rest of his days with plenty of love (and the best cat treats, of course) after being found as a stray and needing his ears amputated due to sun damage.

Phillip was found living on the streets in the village of Bredhurst in the south of the UK, and was taken to the charity Cats Protection. Stacey Gausten, the center’s deputy manager, previously explained that Phillip’s ears were amputated because they were “curly crispy,” a sign of sun damage that can indicate skin cancer. Pre-cancerous cells were found on his ears, so the surgery may have saved his life.

Cats with white fur – particularly on their ears or noses – are often more vulnerable to sun damage, with Cats Protection urging cat parents to keep their felines indoors during the hottest part of the day.

David, from the nearby town of Gillingham, adopted Phillip, explaining that as soon as he saw him he “wanted to give him another chance of a happy life,” per the BBC. He added, “I'm pleased to say that Phillip has settled in really well. He is still finding his feet around the house.

“He is playful and comes to us for attention and a fuss on his terms, so we're really happy with how he's accepted this as his new home so quickly.”

David said that Phillip’s amputated ears “gives him character” and that he’s still lively despite his age. He also hoped that Phillip’s story would raise awareness of sun damage in cats, with many cat parents not being aware of the risks.

Skin cancer is one of a few types of cancer cats can have, so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms. If you have any concerns, it’s best to consult your vet. Take a look at our list of the most common illnesses in cats, too, so you know what to watch out for.

If you’re thinking of adopting an older feline yourself, meanwhile, here are our tips for taking care of senior cats. Rescues and shelters in your area should have plenty of information about their cats up for adoption so you can find the cat that’s perfect for you.

The cost of Phillip’s treatment amounted to nearly £1,000 ($1,263) – if you would like to contribute you can do so via JustGiving.

You may also be interested in: 32 reasons to adopt a cat or ‘I adopted two rescue cats saved from a cat hoarder’

We all love our pets, and the commitment we make to take care of them means we often need to put them first – and sometimes, ahead of our own love lives.

Indeed, our furry friends can influence our romantic relationships – and cats do so more than you might think. Have you ever had to cut a date short because your cat is at home with separation anxiety, or put a relationship on hold because of disagreements over your furry friend? What about a potential partner being allergic to cats – would that be a dealbreaker?

In a survey of 1,000 US-based cat parents, pet tech company Whisker found that just over one-third of us (34%) would even ghost a potential romantic partner if they were allergic to cats.

If you think you’re allergic to cats, be they yours or your partner’s, you should know that, often, allergies can be managed, so your burgeoning relationship might not be completely doomed!

What if your partner wasn’t allergic to your cat, but simply didn’t like them? Well, a whopping 62% of pet parents would end their relationship if that were the case, while 35% have felt embarrassed to bring a date over because of their litter box.

Almost half (44%) of respondents admitted that their cat has ‘third-wheeled’ on a date night – though if your date is a fellow cat person they surely wouldn’t mind – while 38% have actually canceled a date to stay home with their pets.

And, if you’ve caught yourself looking through your camera roll for your feline on a first date, you’re not alone. In fact, the average cat parent has over 600 photos of their cat on their phone right now.

It’s not surprising that so many of us consider our cats’ happiness so important – even at the expense of date night! Despite the reputation cats sometimes have for being aloof, there are all sorts of ways cats show affection, and they really can be the best company.

Do cats know we love them? It’s a difficult question to answer, given that cats express their feelings in a different way to humans, but it seems as though they do. Adult cats don’t meow at other adult cats, but kittens meow to their mothers, and adult cats meow to us, suggesting that there’s an almost parent-child dynamic with plenty of love and affection.

Meanwhile, Whisker is encouraging people to break up with their litter box and upgrade to its Litter-Robot with the ‘Dump Your Box’ promotion offering $80 off bundles. Check out our guide to the best automatic cat litter boxes – and see what we thought when we compared the Litter-Robot 3 vs Litter-Robot 4.

Still looking for love as a pet parent? Here are 32 ways to include your pet on a date and here’s our guide to the best automated cat toys to keep your cat occupied while you’re out

Knowing what to do in case of an emergency like a house fire is important, but when you’re a pet parent you have other beings to think about, too.

After all, you’ll want to protect your pet yourself or get the emergency services to rescue them, even if you don’t have time to grab any of their favorite toys as you leave.

The Dublin Fire Brigade in Ireland has been praised online for rescuing a cat, Biscuit, from the city’s suburb of Ballyfermot, and giving him a mini oxygen mask to help save his life after he was unconscious.

On January 29, the fire brigade explained on X (formerly Twitter) that a firefighter-paramedic was responsible for applying the mask, and that just 10 minutes later Biscuit was “snuggling” into his owner. The crew also rescued a dog and a budgie, but neither required additional oxygen.

“We are trialling pet oxygen masks, which are on nine fire appliances, in two districts,” the brigade added in the post, which has since gone viral online. “We are working with Village Vets to introduce them across the city.”

In an Instagram post, Village Vets added: “We’re so proud to be working with Dublin Fire Brigade to roll out these pet oxygen masks – pets, like people, can suffer from smoke inhalation, and immediate oxygen therapy can mean the difference between life and death.

“Standard human masks don’t fit properly on animals, so having the right equipment on hand is critical in those first few minutes.”

Hopefully, you’ll never have to be in a situation where you need to protect your pets in the event of a fire, but it’s best to be aware of what you can do to help keep them safe. There are lots of simple things we can do, from ensuring our pets are wearing collars so they’re identifiable to providing them with escape routes if we can – a pet door is ideal.

It’s also important to ensure you have working smoke detectors, for the safety of humans and animals alike, and monitored detectors (like this one on Amazon) are even better, so if your pets are home alone you’ll be alerted. Meanwhile, window stickers (like these ones) alerting firefighters to the type and number of pets at home can be helpful, too, so they’ll know to look for pets as well as humans.

Another option may be to sign up for a pet first-aid class. These classes can teach you how to give your pet mouth-to-mouth resuscitation safely, plus other skills such as what to do if a dog is choking. Again, it’s ideally something we’d never need to put into practice, but it’s best to know, just in case.

It’s no secret that a lot of pets, as well as wild animals, have been affected by the devastating California wildfires in recent weeks, too. If you’d like to get involved in some way, be it donating, buying food from a wishlist, or even fostering or adopting if you’re local, here’s how you can help animals affected by the LA fires.

How often do you treat cats for fleas? It's a question you may well be asking if you've just welcomed a new feline friend into your family. While it's easy to get sidetracked buying the best food, toys, and bedding, protecting your kitty from pesky parasites is one of the most important things you can do for their health and wellbeing.

While they may be small, fleas have the potential to create big problems. Carriers of all sorts of diseases, these little critters love setting up camp in our cat's coats and cause them all sorts of issues, including anemia and tapeworm. Thankfully, regularly using one of the best flea treatments for cats can stop these biting beasts in their tracks.

How often you treat your cat for fleas will depend on the type of product you use. A topical, for example, will need to be applied every 30 days, whereas one of the best flea collars for cats could last seven to eight months.

To help you figure out the best course of action for your cat, we spoke to expert vet Dr. Hannah Godfrey. Below, she explains the options when it comes to protecting your feline friend from fleas, the signs to be on the lookout for that suggest your cat may have an infestation, and why flea prevention is so critical for your cat's health.

How often do you treat cats for fleas?

If you have a feline fur baby, you may be wondering how often you need to treat them to prevent pesky parasites from setting up camp in their fur. According to Dr. Godfrey, the frequency with which you treat your cat for fleas will depend on whether you opt for a flea medicine vs flea collars.

"Certain flea collars will be effective for seven or eight months, while typical spot-on treatments are only effective for one month," she explains. "While you might think your cat doesn’t need flea treatment all year round, in this age of centrally heated homes, it’s common for fleas to be a year-round problem."

How to tell if your cat has fleas

Not all cats with fleas will have symptoms, but as Dr. Godfrey explains below, there are some signs you can be on the lookout for.

"If your cat has fleas, you might see them crawling quickly through their fur," she says. "It’s easiest to spot them in sparse fur, white fur, or on their back end just above the base of their tail.

If you don’t see live fleas, that doesn’t mean they’re not there, so keep an eye out for flea dirt. Flea dirt is digested blood (or essentially flea poop) and looks like small black specks within the fur, and if dampened with wet cotton wool it looks dark red.

Finally, if your cat has fleas you might notice them scratching or overgrooming and they might develop scabs, rashes, or wounds."

If you've been wondering why is my cat overgrooming or scratching, it can be worth checking them over for fleas.

How to get rid of fleas

When it comes to the flea life cycle and how you can break it, treating your kitty on a regular basis is one of the best ways to protect them from fleas and ticks. But alongside regular treatments, there are other things you can do to.

"To get rid of your cat’s fleas, it’s important to treat them and all other in-contact pets with an effective and species-appropriate flea treatment," confirms Dr. Godfrey.

"Make sure you treat all pets at the same time, otherwise, you might find they jump from your treated pet to the safe haven of your untreated pet!"

However, as Dr. Godfrey points out, you'll also want to look beyond the flea collar, topicals, and tablets and also consider your home.

"Alongside treating your pets, you’ll also need to hot wash all removable soft furnishings and use a household flea spray to kill any fleas in the environment."

What is the best treatment for cat fleas?

From collars and tablets to shampoos and topicals, there are so many different products on the market claiming to be effective at killing fleas and preventing their return. But are some better than others? We asked Dr. Godfrey to share her thoughts.

"While it’s important to choose a vet-approved and effective product, it’s also important to choose a product that you can administer easily and regularly without too much fuss," she explains.

"Therefore, if you can’t tablet your cat, it’s not a good idea to commit to giving a flea tablet regularly, whereas if you’re likely to forget to give treatments, choosing a long-lasting flea collar may be better. The majority of my feline patients receive flea treatment as a spot-on every month."

Most pet parents choose spot-on treatments because they're easy to apply, but how do topical flea treatments work exactly? Topicals are applied monthly to the skin at the base of your cat's neck and the treatment spreads quickly across your fur friend's body, killing fleas on contact.

Topical flea treatments are convenient to apply and highly effective, but they only last 30 days and tend to be the most expensive option. If you're on a budget, a flea collar can be a great alternative.

Why is flea prevention important for cats?

Fleas can carry and transmit a whole host of diseases, which is why it's so important to keep your kitty protected.

"Fleas don’t just cause a bit of itching. If your cat has lots of fleas all feeding from them they can become severely anemic," Dr. Godfrey explains. "Even if your cat only has one or two fleas, if they have flea allergic dermatitis they can lose hair and end up with sore, scabby, and infected skin.

Another flea-related risk to be aware of is tapeworm. Fleas can often carry tapeworm larvae, which means that if cats ingest an infected flea while grooming, they can end up infected."

Applying a topical treatment or another effective option, like a flea collar, will help ensure your kitty stays happy and healthy.

Flea treatment not working? We recommend speaking with your vet who will be able to advise you on what to try next.

Read next: How do cats get fleas?

If your cat’s not drinking, you’re bound to be worried. I’ve been working with pet parents for eight years as a vet, including some time in a cat-only practice, which means I’ve seen my fair share of cats with drinking problems. I know just how worrying our fur family can be when they aren’t behaving normally.

In this guide, I’m going to explain the reasons a cat might stop drinking. We’ll also cover cat hydration, and I’ll give you my top tips to help you keep your cats hydrated. (Hint: Using a pet water fountain can help!)

Why is my cat not drinking?

So, let’s first take a look at the reasons your cat is not drinking. The first thing to consider is whether this is a change for them. Cats don’t tend to drink much due to a low thirst drive, and they live fairly private lives – if you’re just not seeing your new cat drink much, this is probably normal for them. 

On the whole, we vets worry more about cats drinking a lot than cats not drinking. But if you’ve spotted a sudden decrease in how much your cat is drinking, it can be concerning. Let’s take a look at the reasons your cat might not be drinking below.

1. They’re getting enough water in their diet

If you’ve changed your cat’s food recently, they might be getting enough water from their food, meaning they don’t need to drink as much. This is especially obvious if you’ve changed from the best dry cat food to the best wet cat food, but you might also notice this if the moisture content of their food has increased.

2. They’re getting water elsewhere

Cats are secretive creatures. If your cat goes out and about and/or has free run of the house, it might be that they aren’t drinking less, they’re just drinking from different places. For example, they might have decided they prefer a water glass by the side of the bed, or drinking from a drip tray under a plant pot. Equally, if they go out, next door’s pond or birdfeeder are likely candidates. 

3. They feel threatened at their bowl

Sometimes, cats won’t drink if they feel threatened at their water bowl. For example, some cat-cat conflict in a multi-cat house might prevent one cat from being allowed to drink. Alternatively, a cat from outside might be bullying your cat while they drink if the bowl is in view of the window. Try moving the bowl out of sight.

4. Their water bowl is dirty

Cats are known for being fussy about their coat, but they’re also pretty careful about eating and drinking cleanly. This means if their water bowl is getting dirty, they may refuse to drink the water. It’s best to give it a quick clean daily when you replenish the water. 

5. Their bowls are too close together

This sounds silly, but cats don’t like their food and water close together. That’s because, in the wild, they wouldn’t want to contaminate their clean water with their kill. If you are placing the food and water bowl together on a mat or in a double bowl, try moving them further apart, or even into different rooms. On that note, they won’t want their water bowl near the best cat litter box either, so try to spread everything around.

6. The water doesn’t taste right

Cats are picky – we know and love them for it. But sometimes it seems like they’re just out to annoy us! If your local water company has changed their cleaning chemicals, your cat might pick up on it. Similarly, if you used to use a water filter or even give them bottled water, they might turn their nose up at a change.

7. The wrong bowl

Yes, if you’ve changed the bowl, you might have to change it back. Cats don’t like change! The type of bowl can make a difference, too - metal bowls can taint the water, making it taste strange and causing cats to stop drinking. Plastic bowls can harbour bacteria, and cause smells that cause cats to stop drinking. Offer several bowls, including glass and ceramic, to try to find something they like.

8. Whisker fatigue

Experts are still undecided whether whisker fatigue is real. But it stands to reason that cats can get fed up of all the information coming from their whiskers, just as humans can get ‘touched out’. If your cat seems face-shy, it might be that their whiskers are causing them problems. Try a shallower, larger bowl that doesn’t cause their whiskers to touch the sides.

How can I encourage my cat to drink water?

Aside from some of the tips given above, there are some other ways you can get your cat to drink water if you think they’re not drinking enough. 

The first is to make sure you’ve got enough water bowls out, of various materials and sizes. As you’ll know, cats can be picky. Try to spread the bowls out evenly so cats don’t have to go far to drink. A water fountain is also an excellent addition here, as many cats prefer running water. 

Another thing you can do if your cat is not drinking enough is to increase the moisture in their diet. You can do this by adding water to their dry food, switching to a wet diet, or even adding additional water to their wet food.

While flavored waters and water supplements aren’t necessary for most cats, they can be useful if your cat has a health problem that would be improved by increasing their drinking.

How long is it safe for a cat not to drink water?

How long cats can go without water? As explained above, cats naturally get most of their water needs from their food, especially if they’re on a wet diet. As long as they continue to eat a wet diet, they may not even need to drink water at all. But cats who are urinating a lot due to kidney failure or hyperthyroidism, cats who are on a dry diet, or cats who have urinary problems should drink at least some water each day. 

If your cat isn’t eating anything or drinking anything, and is therefore taking in no water at all, you should take them to the vet within 24 hours to avoid them getting dehydrated. Dehydration in cats can cause kidney problems and can quickly become fatal.

It’s not always abnormal to see a cat not drinking – they’re private animals with a low thirst drive, so sometimes you won’t see a healthy adult cat drink at all. But if you notice a sudden change in your cat’s drinking, that’s more of a concern. Hopefully, with the reasons above and our tips for encouraging drinking, you can get your cat drinking again, but don’t forget to make an appointment with your vet if you are concerned.

If you liked this article, you might also be interested in the opposite – what to do when a cat is drinking a lot of water. Alternatively, we also have an article about cats not eating.

If you’re wondering, ‘Why is my cat shaking?’, then you might be feeling a little worried. Just like in humans, unexplained shaking in our pets can be a cause for concern. There are several reasons why your cat might be shaking, from physical problems to something they are struggling with emotionally.

This behavior might be confusing when you give them the best kitten food or the best cat food, a warm bed, and everything else they could need, but there are actually six common causes of shaking that you may want to investigate.

If you’re not sure whether your cat’s shaking is problematic or not, it’s always best to be on the side of caution and take them for a check up at the vet.

We spoke to vets Dr Catherine Burke and Dr Corinne Wigfall who explained the reasons why your cat might be shaking - some of them indicative of a serious medical issue.

Causes for shaking

“There are many different physical and emotional reasons a cat might shake or tremor,” Dr Burke says. “It is important to be aware that it can sometimes be an early symptom of a more serious underlying condition. If your cat starts to shake uncontrollably, always contact your vet for advice.”

Here are some reasons your cat might be shaking:

1. Toxins or poisoning

“If a cat comes into contact with a poison or toxin, one of the first signs you might see is shaking,” says Dr Burke. “Shaking will often develop into a more obvious tremor or seizure and can be fatal. Other signs of poisoning can include drooling, vomiting and losing balance or falling over.”

2. Neurological disease

Dr Burke says: “Shaking or tremoring can mean something is wrong with your cat’s nervous system (their brain and spinal cord). Kittens born with a condition called ‘feline cerebellar hypoplasia’, often referred to as ‘wobbly kitten’ syndrome, have been exposed to a virus in the womb..

“These kittens may have head shaking or tremors, alongside losing their balance and lifting their legs high when they are walking. If you notice any unusual signs with your kitten, contact your vet straight away for advice.”

3. Temperature
“Just like us humans, a cat shaking may be a sign that they are uncomfortable with the temperature. This is important to look out for in young kittens as adult cats are usually very good at keeping themselves at the right temperature,” says Dr Burke. “A young kitten that has been out in the cold or in a drafty spot in your house may shiver to keep warm, as might older cats who have been stuck outside in very cold weather. A normal body temperature for a cat ranges between [100.4°F-102.2°F], so any decrease below this is likely to lead to your cat feeling cold.”

4. Fear or anxiety

Dr Burke explains: “Just as shaking can be a symptom of a physical illness, it can also be a symptom of an emotional response such as intense fear or anxiety in a cat. Cats will often hide obvious signs of fear and anxiety and usually freeze rather than displaying recognizable emotions. However, in some situations, you may notice your cat shaking.

“It's always best to respect your cat's choice and don't force them to come to you if they're scared. Instead, create a calm atmosphere by drawing the curtains and minimizing loud noises, while you identify what may be causing the problem.”

Dr Corinne Wigfall adds: “It’s not uncommon for cats to feel anxious or stressed, for example when traveling to the vet, or on bonfire night when fireworks are going off all night. It’s a way your cat can tell you that they need your support and comfort so a gentle pat and a comforting word go a long way when your cat is shaking from stress.”

If you’re looking for more advice on how to calm a cat, this feature has some excellent advice.

5. Itching

“You might notice your cat shaking or twitching if they are feeling itchy. This could be due to parasites, like fleas or underlying allergies. If their ears in particular are itchy, you will often see them shaking their head – itchy ears can be caused by infections, parasites, or growths in the ear canal,” says Dr Burke.

If your cat is experiencing itchy ears, then our feature on ear infections in cats can help.

Dr Wigfall adds: “Skin disease can have lots of different causes such as fleas, contact reactions, or allergens such as food or grasses. Sometimes itchy skin can become so uncomfortable your cat may start to twitch or shake to cope with the itching sensation.”

6. Pain

Dr Burke says: “Like many animals, cats are masters at hiding their pain, but shaking can be one of the visible signs that they’re experiencing physical discomfort. To identify the cause of the problem, always book an appointment with a vet, who will determine if there are any underlying issues behind the shaking.”

Dr Wigfall adds: “Cats are generally tough in nature, and can often hide pain for a long time without us knowing they are uncomfortable. There are many causes of pain, so taking your cat to their vet for a full health check-up can help find the source.”

To understand the signs of pain in cats better, this feature will help you work them out.

Should I take my cat to the vet?

If your cat is shaking, then you’re probably wondering whether you need to take them to the vet or not. Here are some signs that shaking might be something serious, according to Dr Wigfall:

• Any signs of collapse
• Open mouth breathing
• Vomiting
• Severe diarrhoea
• Any open wounds or active bleeding
• Shaking that does not resolve after two hours without an obvious cause (e.g. thunderstorm)
• Becoming wobbly or unbalanced

Enjoyed this? You might also like these features: 32 weird cat behaviors that you’re worried about and 7 common cat behavior problems solved. Or, we've revealed the reason why your cat is walking in circles.

Nobody wants their kitty to be sick but brushing up on 32 common cat illnesses can make you feel more prepared. Things like ear infections, fleas, or UTIs are not on the list of things that pet parents look forward to. Nevertheless, it’s our job as pet parents to take care of our furry friends when they are sick.

It is also worth considering taking out some of the best pet insurance you can. This will help offset the costs of vaccines, antibiotics, or any other treatments your feline may need on their road to feeling better.

32 of the most common illness in cats

1. Fleas

One of the most common issues pet parents run into is fleas. These pesky little bugs can make your cat uncomfortable and itchy. The best plan of attack is to choose one of the best flea treatments for cats or to invest in one of the best flea collars for cats.

2. Worms

Worms are another common parasite that pet parents run into. Symptoms might include things like diarrhea and vomiting. If you're wondering how to treat a kitten with worms, you'll want to make an appointment with your vet and they will help you every step of the way.

3. Diabetes

Diabetes relates to the blood sugar levels in the body, generally, the levels are too high. Diabetes in cats is relatively common and can usually be managed with things like diet, exercise, or insulin.

Signs your cat is diabetic include things like weight loss, vomiting, or poor coat condition. If you suspect any of these are going on with your feline, it's best to see a vet right away.

4. Cancer

Cats, just like people can get various types of cancer. Some of the most common symptoms to look out for are lumps, abnormal discharge, or skin infections that do not go away. According to the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, some of the most common types of cancer include lymphoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

5. Ringworm

Not an actual worm, but a fungus that can cause patchy circles of hair loss in your cat. This fungal infection can affect the fur, skin, and nails of your cat and can easily spread to other animals or even people in the home.

6. Kidney disease

Kittens can sometimes be born with kidney disease. In other cases, it can develop later in life. Some signs of kidney disease could be frequent urination, a dry coat, bloody or cloudy-looking urine.

7. Rabies

Rabies can be contracted through the saliva of an infected animal. According to the VCA Animal Hospital, some signs that you may see from a cat that has been infected are that they may seem intensely agitated or aggressive, muscle spasms, and excessive drooling. It is a wise choice to keep your feline current with their cat and kitten vaccinations and also their rabies shots.

8. Heartworm

Cats contract heartworm larvae through a mosquito bite. Heartworm can be potentially fatal. The larvae can develop into foot-long worms that can live inside the heart, lungs and other blood vessels around the body. As the American Heartworm Society has described it can cause heart failure.

9. High-rise syndrome

High-rise Syndrome refers to the injuries that cats sustain from falling out of high-level windows, balconies, or other high levels. While not technically an illness, this syndrome is so common that vets have coined a name for it.

10. Upper respiratory infection

Another common illness in cats are upper respiratory infections. This is caused by bacteria or viruses in the nose, sinuses, mouth or throat. Some signs of an infection could be cough, sneezing, discharge from the eyes or congestion.

11. Feline leukemia virus 

Feline leukemia virus is one of the most common infections in cats and kittens. Only some cats that are exposed to this virus will go on to develop an infection. Symptoms of feline leukemia virus can be decreased appetite, fever, or enlarged lymph nodes.

12.  Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis in cats is when the pancreas overproduces digestive enzymes and they leak out into the body causing further inflammation in the surrounding areas. Symptoms of pancreatitis in cats are not always obvious but some things to look for are, lethargy or soreness near the stomach area as well as decreased appetite.

13.  Chlamydia felis 

Chlamydia felis used to be known as chlamydophila, but is an infection in the eye. You may notice discharge in one or both eyes, red or swollen eyes, or your cat may keep their eyelid partly closed.

14. Constipation

You may notice that your cat has fewer stools than normal. This may not necessarily always be cause for concern but if you also notice that your cat is struggling to have a bowel movement, or having accidents around the house, then your cat may be constipated. There are several home remedies for cat constipation you can try to help your fur baby.

15.  Feline hyperthyroidism

Most commonly diagnosed in older cats, feline hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland overproduces the thyroid hormone. Some symptoms can include weight loss with an increased appetite and drinking habits.

16.  Feline immunodeficiency virus 

This viral infection starts in the lymph nodes and spreads to the white blood cells. Symptoms of feline immunodeficiency virus can vary but general symptoms can be reduced appetite, fever, or enlarged lymph nodes.

17. Cat flu

You may have wondered to yourself "Why is my cat sneezing?" Cats just like humans can get the flu, and just like yourself symptoms can be sneezing, running noses, or fever.

18.  Feline parvovirus 

Feline parvovirus is a virus that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, or fever as this virus in particular affects the immune system, gut and sometimes can also affect the heart.

19.  Gingivitis 

Gingivitis is when the gums are inflamed, leaving your feline with red and sore gums. In addition to swollen gums, your cat shows signs of pain and discomfort. You may also notice that your cat has foul-smelling breath.

20.  Periodontitis 

Another gum disease to look out for is periodontitis. This disease is more advanced than others and it typically seen in older cats. Periodontitis affects the gum and tissue around the tooth causing it to become loose. You may also notice inflamed gums with this disease.

21. Obesity

While everyone loves a chunky ball of fur, you want to be careful about letting your furry feline pack on too much weight. A cat that is overweight may have higher chances of developing other health conditions.

22. Diarrhea

A not-so-pleasant and sometimes messy problem that cat parents face is diarrhea. If you have ever wondered about diarrhea in cats, you can take comfort in the fact that it is very common. However, we recommend visiting your vet if it doesn't get better within a few days or is accompanied with other symptoms such as vomiting or fever.

23. Vomiting

If you have a cat then you most certainly have come across a hairball or two that your cat has thrown up. Hairballs in cats are generally nothing to worry about. However, if you notice that your cat also have a fever, diarrhea, or doesn't seem quite like themselves it's best to make an appointment with your vet.

24.  Ear mites

Ear mites are parasites that live in the cat's ear canal. Ear mites in cats is typically a very common condition and are treatable with topical medication. Symptoms you may notice are if your cat is shaking their hear a lot, scratching at their ears or you may see dark brown material in their canal.

25. Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections are no fun, especially for our cat friends. You may notice that they are urinating more frequently, straining to urinate, and may seem in pain while trying to use the bathroom. You'll want to be sure to see your vet right away, to find out how to treat urinary tract infections in your cat.

26. Retinal disease

If you suspect your cat is having trouble seeing, you may want to make an appointment with your vet, as early diagnosis can make a big difference for your cat. Things like cataracts or glaucoma can affect your cat's ability to see and if left untreated, can have negative impacts later on down the line.

27.  Arthritis  

Arthritis is very common in cats and can get progressively worse over time. A disease in the joints, arthritis in cats can be managed with the support of your vet although it is incurable. Symptoms to look out for loss of fur, limping, or swollen joints.

28. Conjunctivitis 

Conjunctivitis in cats is similar to when humans have it. You may notice red, swollen eyes with discharge. Your cat may rub or paw at the affected eye. While a red and irritated eye is not always an infection, it is best to check with your vet.

29. Allergies

Yes, cats can have allergies too. Things like fleas, food and house dust are among some of the most common allergies found in cats, according to the VCA Animal Hospital. Depending on the type of allergy will determine the type of treatment or diet that will be best for your cat.

30. Overgrown claws

If a cat's nail are left untrimmed, they can grow into the nailpad and result in an ingrown nail. This can be very painful for you feline friend, so be sure to invest in some of the best cat nail clippers you can find to keep their cute little paws safe.

31.  Heart murmurs

Heart murmurs are typically detected in young kittens and they are generally nothing to worry about, as cats usually grow out of them. In some cases, heart murmurs can be seen in older cats and these can be due to anemia, or other underlying conditions.

32.  Ear infections

Ear infections in cats are generally not as common as in dogs. Some signs to look out for are cats scratching at their ears, their ears may be red and inflamed or you may notice a discharge coming from them.

Read next: 20 things every vet wished pet parents knew.

If you've been asking the question 'is my cat sick?', we understand what a worrying time this must be — and what a tricky question it can be to answer. 

Cats are masters at hiding pain and disease, so as a pet parent it's important to be aware of the signs your cat may not be feeling in tip-top shape. 

And who better to help us understand what to be on the lookout for than expert cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy. 

In a recent TikTok video, Galaxy talks us through eight things that indicate it's time to get your kitty to the vet.

Keep reading to find out what they are...

Because cats are so clever at hiding when they're feeling off color, there's an element of needing to play detective when it comes to figuring out how they're doing.

"You need to pay attention to the signs your cat needs to go to the vet," says Galaxy. 

"If they were a certain way and now they are a different way, that's what you start with," he explains, before going on to state that these are some of the specific signs to be on the lookout for:

• Excessive weight gain or weight loss
• Changes in appetite
• Greasy fur
• Excess dander
• Hiding a lot
• Sudden aggression
• Vocalizing more than usual
• Eliminating right outside the litter box

"If you're aware of any of these symptoms right now in your cat, stop everything and go to the vet right now," Galaxy advises. 

Early intervention with cats increases the likelihood of successful treatment, so whether it's your cat not eating or greasy fur and excess dander indicating they've stopped grooming, it's vital you get them checked over so your vet can rule out any medical issues.

And should your vet give your kitty a clean bill of health, the next step would be to consider consulting with a qualified feline behaviorist. They'll be able to work with you and your cat to figure out what might be driving the changes in your cat's behavior. 

Unlike us humans, our feline friends can't tell us when they're in pain, or feeling unwell. That's why it's so important as a pet parent to be able to quickly and easily spot the signs of pain in cats.

Thankfully, registered vet technician and certified cat behavior consultant, Tabitha Kucera, has come to the rescue with a helpful Instagram post that will make recognizing that your cat is in pain that little bit easier. 

"Your cat is communicating with you all of the time. They use their body to show you when they're feeling comfortable and when they're feeling sore or unwell. The signs of cat pain aren't subtle, we just need to learn how to recognize them," she explains.

If you're asking the question 'is my cat sick?' stick with us because we're sharing with you Kucera's top seven signs and signals that indicate your cat is in pain. Check out her useful infographic below or keep reading for all the details. 

1. General mobility: Kucera says it's important to look at your cat's ease and fluidity of movement. Are they protective of a part of their body, or hesitant to put weight on a limb? "Your cat may try to curl up into a ball, or sit hunched in a crouched position, with their back curved higher than normal and their head lowered." They may also tuck their legs under their body instead of stretching out on their side.

2. Temperament: "Any change in their daily activity should be discussed with your vet," Kucera advises. "Consider frequency and intensity of play, as well as any changes in how they greet/interact with you."

3. Eating and drinking: Pay attention to your cat's eating and drinking habits. If your cat's not eating or drinking, you'll want to speak with your vet. The same goes for if their intake has decreased, or if they're eating slower than usual.

4. Grooming: Any change in the frequency or intensity of grooming habits is something to watch out for, says Kucera. Especially, "licking, biting, or scratching at a particular spot," as well as "frequent, intense grooming to a particular part of their body." A complete lack of grooming and appearing unkempt, is also a sign your cat may be in pain.

5. Resting and relaxing: Is your cat restless? Do they have difficulty getting up? Are they sleeping more, or hiding away? Changes to resting behaviors can indicate a problem, as can any differences in facial expressions, such as grimacing, glazed eyes, enlarged pupils, and flattened ears.

6. Performing activities: Kucera says litter box habits often provide clues as to your cat's health and wellbeing. If they urinate or defecate outside their box, have difficulty getting in and out, or are unable to squat, they could be experiencing pain. Also look out for any avoidance when it comes to jumping, or struggling to jump as high as they were previously able to.

7. Social interactions: "Your cat may experience increased irritability if they're in pain," explains Kucera. "They may begin to growl or hiss when other people or pets approach, feel uncomfortable being held, resent being brushed or combed. They may bite or scratch when a person touches or moves the painful area, or even in anticipation of being touched."

According to Kucera, it's important to monitor your cat on a daily basis so that you come to learn what's normal behavior for them and what's not.

"Learn your cat's "normal" and pay attention to any changes. It can be helpful to keep a diary to track appetite, vomiting, bowl movements, etc.⁣"

If you're at all worried about your feline friend or you spot any changes, or out of the ordinary behavior, we recommend you speak with your vet. 

Dehydration in cats is a serious problem that can be fatal if left untreated. It occurs when your cat experiences significant fluid loss – whether from not drinking enough water or from moisture loss due to underlying medical conditions.

Water is fundamental to your cat's health, supporting digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and more – so it's crucial that they get the right amount.

Things like the best pet water fountains can make this easier, as cats prefer to drink running water, and some even notify you about their drinking habits. If your feline eats dry kibble, it might also be worth switching to the best wet cat food, which has a higher moisture content.

Below, Dr Joanna Woodnutt explains the signs and causes of dehydration in cats, how to encourage your kitty to drink more, and her top tips for preventing it. She has eight years of experience as a qualified vet and has answered all your burning questions.

Signs of dehydration in cats

Knowing how to check if your cat is dehydrated is key to acting quickly to get them the help they need.

Dehydrated cats may be lethargic and quieter than usual. You might find that they’re thirsty and drinking more than usual, but not always – especially if nausea is preventing them from wanting to drink.

You might notice that their eyes are more sunken or that their coat is dull. In severe dehydration, you’ll notice them urinating less and their pee becoming strong-smelling, but don’t rely on this as a sign, as some of the causes of dehydration make cats urinate more than usual.

How do you check a cat for dehydration?

If you suspect your cat is dehydrated, there are some simple checks you can do at home:

Skin test: Pull the skin on the back of their neck up into a ‘tent’. When you let go, the skin should return to its previous position quickly.

If your cat is dehydrated, their skin will stay in a tent or slowly return to its previous position. A loss of skin elasticity like this is a sign of severe dehydration that requires veterinary treatment.

Gum test: Another quick test you can do, if your cat is amenable, is to touch your cat’s gums with a finger. (Please don’t do this if your cat might bite!)

If the gums feel sticky or dry, your cat is dehydrated. Normal gums should be constantly moistened by saliva.

Causes of dehydration in cats

Normal, healthy adult cats are unlikely to get seriously dehydrated. Like all animals, their body carefully regulates the amount of water they lose through urine and faeces and prompts them to drink when they need more.

However, there are certain events that make dehydration in cats more likely to occur:

1. Type of cat food

Cats are descended from desert-dwellers, meaning they have a low thirst drive. Instead, wild cats get most of their water from their food. Domestic cats, on the other hand, aren’t usually eating much in the way of prey.

This means the type of cat food can make a big difference to how much fluid a cat takes in. While wet cat foods are close to prey in moisture content, dry cat foods are low-moisture, meaning cats need to increase their water intake. If you're wondering, 'Can cats eat dry food only?', check out our helpful guide.

Dry foods don’t cause dehydration in cats, but they can make cats more susceptible if they have another issue like kidney disease.

2. Lack of access

Cats get dehydrated when they don’t have access to water. A classic example is a cat who is trapped in a shed, outbuilding, attic, or locked car. These cats will rapidly become dehydrated as they’re unable to drink or even get water from their food. This is especially the case in warm weather.

Cats are also fussy about where they drink, preferring open spaces, running water, and peace and quiet. This means it’s quite common for pet parents to think their cat is not drinking, but healthy adult cats will almost always be taking in enough water to avoid dehydration.

Having said this, it’s possible that a cat will become dehydrated if his preferred drinking place is inaccessible – for instance, if the bird bath freezes over, or a neighbor cat moves in and guards the pond.

3. Medical conditions

Dehydration in cats also happens when they are ill. Medical conditions like kidney disease and diabetes cause cats to urinate more than usual, drawing water out of the body. If cats don’t respond by taking in enough water, they’ll soon become dehydrated.

Cats are unlikely to become severely dehydrated like this, but they’re often mildly dehydrated for long periods of time, which is just as damaging. Of course, if a medical condition causing increased fluid loss is combined with a lack of water to drink – perhaps you forgot to fill the water bowl – then dehydration will happen much more quickly.

Vomiting and diarrhea in cats can also cause dehydration, especially in kittens or older cats. Cats will usually drink more to make up for their increased losses, but if they can’t keep up, they’ll become dehydrated quickly.

Very young kittens (less than four months old) can become severely dehydrated in a matter of hours if they have vomiting or diarrhea.

Will a dehydrated cat urinate?

Dehydrated cats will continue to urinate, as the body has to get rid of waste products. However, the urine will become steadily more concentrated as dehydration worsens, turning it darker in color, stronger-smelling, and smaller in amount.

You may see your cat urinating less, but some causes of dehydration (like kidney failure) cause cats to pee more, so you shouldn’t rely on urination as a sign of dehydration in cats.

How long does it take for a cat to become dehydrated?

Like humans and other mammals, cats need to take in water on a regular basis to prevent dehydration. Cats naturally get much of this water from their food – rodents and other prey animals are about 80% water, which means that, given the right diet, they need to drink very little water to survive.

How long it takes for a cat to become dehydrated depends not only on their diet, but also on their activity levels, the ambient temperature, and their internal processes (such as illness or pregnancy).

Broadly speaking, a cat without access to water or food can die of dehydration in as little as a couple of days. Cats that are eating well and drinking well but that have an underlying illness meaning they’re passing more water as urine than they are drinking will slowly become dehydrated over a week or more.

How to prevent dehydration in cats

Preventing dehydration in cats is all down to increasing fluid intake. In some cats, you may also be able to reduce fluid losses by treating any illnesses causing dehydration, such as diabetes or diarrhea.

To prevent dehydration, you should make sure your cat has ready access to fresh water in all areas of the house. Try to prevent your cat from getting locked in places without water and raise the alarm quickly if they go missing, especially in the heat of summer.

Feeding a wet cat food can also help to prevent dehydration, as cats will absorb moisture from their diet. You can also add extra water to their food, whether wet or dry, to encourage a better water intake.

As a guide, cats need around 60ml of water per kg of bodyweight per day. However, cats on wet food will drink less than this, while cats with medical conditions or that are very active may drink more.

How to encourage your cat to drink more water

Cats are lazy, and they don’t have a high thirst drive. In addition, cats in multi-cat households may guard resources like water bowls, preventing other cats from getting access. To solve both of these problems, you should provide plenty of water bowls in plenty of locations.

The water bowl material and shape are also important. Not all cats like the same, but it’s generally best to use ceramic or glass bowls rather than metal or plastic, which can taint the water. Most cats prefer a large, flat dish with low sides, but some cats will opt for your water glass instead! Running water is also a favourite, so try using a water fountain. Don’t forget to keep all bowls clean, too!

You’ll often find that your cat has a preference for water flavor. While some cats refuse tap water and prefer rainwater, others may only drink bottled water – try all three to see which your cat prefers.

In some cases, flavoring the water with a small amount of tuna or even feline electrolyte solution will encourage cats to drink, but this is best done temporarily or as a treatment plan for a medical condition, rather than for preventing a problem in a normal healthy cat.

Should I give my cat water with a syringe?

Even if you suspect dehydration, you should never give your cat water with a syringe. Cats don’t take kindly to having liquids forced into their throat and they’re likely to panic and struggle. This could cause injury to you, injury to your cat, or cause them to inhale the water and get inhalation pneumonia.

Depending on your cat’s condition, replacing the water too quickly, or with pure water rather than water mixed with electrolytes, can also cause more problems than it solves.

How long does it take a cat to recover from dehydration?

Cats generally feel significantly better as soon as the lost fluids are replaced, which can be within minutes if they’re on an IV drip. However, cats with mild dehydration that are not placed on a drip may take several hours to recover, depending on the fluids they take on board.

If your cat is not drinking, you may want to check for signs of dehydration in cats. Dehydration is serious and can quickly become fatal, so it’s important to act quickly and contact a vet if you have any concerns, particularly in warm weather.

Cats aren’t very good drinkers, and some cats are regularly mildly dehydrated just because the water bowl is too far away or not their favorite type. This means preventing dehydration is all down to offering wet foods, providing plenty of water bowls, and encouraging your cat to drink water wherever you can.

You might also want to read how long cats can go without water and what should cats drink. Or, learn how to cool down a cat and do kittens drink water

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

If you notice your cat drinking a lot of water and the behavior is not following your pet’s normal pattern of consumption, then it’s important to dig a little deeper. Although, for the most part, an increased water intake is perfectly innocuous, it can be an indicator of hyperthyroidism, liver disease, diabetes, urinary tract infections or kidney problems. As you can imagine, for the health of your feline friend, it’s crucial to know when a thirsty cat needs a trip to the vet.

Of course, water intake isn’t dangerous in itself. Some cats love a cool, refreshing drink and that’s why they will be attracted to the best pet water fountains or, at the very least, the best cat food bowls filled with fresh water (both being preferable to cats sipping from toilet bowls and puddles). The trick, however, is to work out whether a cat’s desire for water has increased to a great extent. If so, why?

Here we take a rounded look at the issue, examining the illnesses that cause excessive thirst in more detail while looking at more innocent explanations such as a temperature rise or a switch to the best dry cat food. Importantly, we look at the symptoms you need to look out for and the steps you need to take if you suspect something is wrong.

How much water should a cat drink a day?

While you may have a hunch that your cat is drinking too much water, it’s better to be absolutely sure. First of all, weigh your cat. Second, measure your cat’s average daily water intake by checking how much liquid is in its bowl at the start and end of the day.

You can then ask a veterinarian if the amount appears excessive or make a quick calculation yourself. In general, most cats shouldn’t drink more than 1.52 fl oz (45ml) of water per pound of their body weight. This means an 8lb (3.6lg) cat shouldn't drink more than 12 fl oz (363ml) of water in a day.

Why is my cat drinking a lot of water?

If you find the intake of water is on the high side, don’t automatically panic. Your cat may have always drunk a lot of water since they were a kitten so what you’re really looking for is a sudden change in their thirst.

Even then, there may be an innocent explanation: consider whether it's a hot day or their food type. Cats that are predominantly fed dry food need to drink more than cats who are fed the best wet cat food (this is among the factors considered in the dry vs wet cat food debate).

If there are no obvious explanations, however, please visit your vet for a further look into the behavior.

Should I worry about my cat drinking a lot of water?

By and large, cats don’t usually drink very much and they tend to keep their hydration to an absolute minimum. That said, water intake is a good thing. A study published in the journal Animals (Basel) suggested water can reduce the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation in cats and it’s known to keep kidneys healthier for longer.

Again, the important thing is whether a cat suddenly starts drinking substantially more. If your cat suddenly spends all their time at the water bowl then, yes, you are right to worry. If you notice any change in your cat’s thirst, you should really make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Is my cat unwell?

Keep an eye out for symptoms such as increased urination, changes in your cat’s appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, vocalization, or even breathing problems.

Let’s check out some specific symptoms:

1. Thirsty yet losing weight, always hungry or meowing excessively

Any of these symptoms can point towards hyperthyroidism because too much thyroid hormone can make your cat really hungry, more vocal, and a bit frantic. The thyroid hormone also increases blood pressure and, over time, can lead to heart failure. You might also notice symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, vocalization, hyperactivity, or changes in their breathing. Hyperthyroidism can be treated in various ways, including medication and surgery. An increased appetite in association with increased thirst can also be a sign of diabetes

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea isn’t a typical symptom of conditions that cause excessive thirst. But, if your cat is drinking a lot and has diarrhea, they may be replacing the fluid they have lost in their poop. It doesn’t take long for dehydration to set in if your cat has vomiting or diarrhea.

3. Peeing outside their litter tray

If your cat is drinking more and peeing outside of the litter box, it could be an indicator of diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and kidney and liver problems. It could also be caused by infection or inflammation of the urinary tract.

When to visit your vet

If your cat is otherwise well, it’s worth keeping an eye on their thirst for a few days to see if it settles and monitoring them for other symptoms. But, if your cat is unwell, has been drinking more for more than a day or two, or has any other symptoms, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian.

You might also want to learn how to stop a cat from spilling their water bowl and how long can cats go without water. Or, discover what should cats drink , do kittens drink water or why cats like running water

An upset stomach in cats can be a miserable experience, both for your feline friend and everyone else in the family! Witnessing your cat vomiting or having diarrhea or other symptoms can be distressing and it can be hard to figure out the cause or the best course of treatment.

For some kitties, gobbling down too much of the best cat food too quickly can throw their body into digestive distress. For others, underlying health issues, such as kidney disease, worms or pancreatitis, can all cause stomach issues.

It can be tricky to know what to do if your cat is throwing up or showing other signs of an upset stomach, but before you contemplate the contents of your medical cabinet, it’s important to note that cat stomach issues are very different to the ones we experience as humans.

That’s why we turned to vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt to get her advice on this complex issue. Below, she outlines the signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for that indicate your cat may have an upset stomach, the most common causes and how to treat it, including when to seek expert help. Let’s take a look...

Signs and symptoms of an upset stomach in cats 

First, let’s consider what the symptoms of an upset stomach in cats are. Obviously, vomiting is a common sign – but there are more subtle signs that are easier to miss. Cats with tummy troubles may show some of the following signs:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Not eating properly
• Stomach pain (often seen as a hunched posture)
• Grumpiness
• Hiding away more

If you have a cat throwing up food after eating or at random times of the day, or they're showing any of the other signs listed above, there’s a chance they have an upset stomach, although there are also other conditions that can cause some of these signs.

Causes of an upset stomach in cats 

So, what can cause an upset stomach in cats? As mentioned above, there are lots of possible causes. Some are more serious than others.

Determining the cause of vomiting and diarrhea in cats is often difficult, and you might find that your veterinarian simply rules out the more concerning causes before treating the symptoms, rather than trying to find an exact diagnosis:

1. Bad food

Your cat’s upset stomach might be caused by something they have eaten. This could be bad food, or food that doesn’t agree with them, which may set off gastritis and cause vomiting and other upset stomach symptoms.

More worrying things your cat may have eaten to cause an upset stomach are toxins, which often cause vomiting as an early sign of poisoning. These toxins can be around the home or out and about, and it’s often impossible to be sure that a cat hasn’t had something toxic.

Some toxins are mild, though, and unless your cat is showing other symptoms they usually respond to symptomatic treatment.

Check out our guides to what human foods can cats eat and five human foods that are poisonous to cats for more information on this issue.

2. Eating a foreign object

Your cat may have eaten something inedible. This can form a bowel obstruction or ‘foreign body’ in the guts. This is an extremely serious cause of vomiting in cats and can even be fatal.

Unlike dogs, cats are less likely to eat a ball or bone to cause a foreign body obstruction, but they are very prone to ‘linear foreign bodies’. These are pieces of string, tinsel, or other long objects that get stuck and gather up the guts in an accordion shape, eventually scissoring through the intestines.

Any prolonged or serious bout of vomiting in cats should be investigated for foreign body obstructions before becoming stuck.

3. Health issues

There are some diseases and common illness in cats that can cause an upset stomach. In cats with recurrent or persistent upset stomachs, your vet might recommend investigating other diseases.

In older cats, kidney disease, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and cancer are possible causes of an upset stomach. In younger cats, IBD, pancreatitis and worms could all cause vomiting, appetite problems, and diarrhea in cats.

What do you give a cat with an upset stomach?

If your cat has an upset stomach, your vet will help you to determine the cause and the best treatment. What is wrong with your cat will determine what to give them to make them feel better.

Your vet might prescribe probiotics, a special diet, or medication to treat an underlying disease like hyperthyroidism. In mild cases, simply giving anti-emetic (anti-vomit) medications can be enough to soothe their upset stomach.

In other cases, your cat might need to be hospitalised for a fluid drip, especially if dehydration becomes an issue or they can’t keep water down.

Home remedies for a cat upset stomach   

If your cat has an upset stomach, you should consider a vet visit. However, if your cat is otherwise themselves, their upset stomach has been going on for less than 24 hours, and they can keep water down, there are some things you can try at home.

Firstly, it’s best not to change their diet unless you think the food is the cause of their problems. Sudden changes in diet can cause an upset stomach so keeping things consistent is important.

Instead, feed them small amounts of the best dry cat food or wet food that you usually give them in little and often portions. If your cat eats only dry food, you may want to give them highly digestible wet food or soak their biscuits to help them remain hydrated.

Most home remedies for a cat upset stomach aren’t worth trying. Antacids for humans are not suitable for cats, and many herbal remedies intended for humans can be poisonous to cats, so you shouldn’t use any human medications.

Similarly, human foods often won’t settle an upset stomach as they’re hard to digest or even toxic. Instead, stick to cat food. Probiotics for cats are also available, and may help treat your cat’s upset stomach in mild cases of diarrhea.

If your cat is prone to tummy troubles, there are some simple things you can do to soothe or prevent their upset stomach:

1. Check their diet

The main way to prevent an upset stomach in cats is through their diet. Make sure that their food is suitable. Many cases of persistent or recurrent tummy troubles can be improved with a change of diet. However, the best cat food for cats with an upset stomach varies depending on the cause.

Since food allergy and IBD can be a cause of upset stomachs, starting a prescription hydrolysed diet may also be an option. Try to avoid anything that isn’t complete and balanced according to FEDIAF/AAFCO standards – these homemade or small-batch diets can cause serious problems.

Raw food can also be a cause for concern as any parasites or bacteria in the food aren’t killed by cooking and can cause an upset stomach – feeding a cooked diet is recommended. Don’t forget, when changing cat food to introduce the new food gradually to avoid upsetting them further.

2. Create smaller meals

Cats are natural hunters that would eat several small meals a day. Replicating this can prevent some stomach issues.

Try splitting your cat’s daily calorie intake between five-six smaller meals. You can even use a timed feeder to portion out the meals whilst you are at work.

How long does an upset stomach last in cats?  

How long a cat upset stomach lasts depends on the cause. In some cases, they will resolve within 24 hours.

In others, they’ll become steadily more ill – never forget that some causes of an upset stomach in cats can be fatal if not treated promptly.

When should I worry about my cat’s upset stomach? 

It’s never wrong to take your cat to the vet for an upset stomach. Cats are less likely to get mild 24-hour upset stomach cases than dogs, so you should always be on the alert if your cat gets an upset stomach. The things that should prompt a vet visit include:

• Upset stomach for more than 24 hours
• Lethargy
• Unable to keep water down
• Unwilling to eat anything
• Known or likely toxin or foreign body ingestion
• Recurrent upset stomachs (more than one episode every six months)

In addition, you should always take your cat to the vet for an upset stomach if you are worried about them. Trust your instincts!

Upset stomachs in cats can be serious and should never be taken lightly. Whilst some cases will resolve on their own, many do not and may need surgery or hospitalization. In most vomiting cases, there are no treatments to give at home that will help.

However, if your vet has ruled out serious disease a gradual change to a different diet may help some cats, with hydrolysed diets, biome diets, and single-protein diets all useful in different cases. Watch carefully for signs your cat needs taking to the vet.

Cat eating too fast? A vet explains why in this feature.

How often do cats need rabies shots? It's a question that many pet parents find themselves asking and that's understandable given that vets warn rabies is a viral disease that is fatal with no treatment available. Because of this, regular vaccination is vital in cats to prevent death and the spread of the virus in case of exposure. 

Rabies has unfortunately enjoyed a renaissance in recent years and currently presents a growing threat to our feline friends. This is largely due to cat owners forgoing vaccinations for their largely indoor-based cats assuming that they’re not at risk of contracting the virus.

However, it’s important to remember that one altercation in the yard with an infected cat is all it takes for your kitty to be exposed, which is why staying on top of cat and kitten vaccinations is so crucial regardless of whether your fur friend spends the bulk of their time indoors or outdoors.

Although many of the best pet insurance policies may not cover the cost of vaccinations or other preventative care, it is imperative that all cats in countries with rabies receive vaccinations against the disease where possible. 

We spoke to vet Dr. Diana Hasler to get her thoughts on rabies vaccinations, including how often they should be given to cats and whether there are any potential side effects. Here’s everything you need to know…

What is rabies?

Rabies is a virus that infects mammals, including cats, dogs, and humans. It is typically transmitted via the saliva when an infected animal bites another mammal. Common transmitters of rabies in North America include bats, raccoons, foxes, and skunks.

The virus replicates locally at the bite site before spreading to the central nervous system, causing neurological symptoms that eventually lead to coma and death. Infected animals may incubate the virus for weeks to months before showing any clinical signs, but once symptoms appear, affected animals typically die within 2 weeks. The course of disease varies depending on species, the location and severity of the bite, and the amount of the virus in the saliva of the infecting animal.

The classic presentation of rabies, “furious rabies,” is characterized by aggression, agitation, convulsions, vocalizations, and excessive drooling—this is the most common type seen in cats. Once symptoms have appeared, rabies is almost always fatal, so prevention via vaccination is essential.

Do indoor cats need rabies shots?

Yes! All cats living in countries with rabies should be given rabies vaccinations regularly throughout their lifetime. In fact, many states require that cats are vaccinated against rabies by law. The rabies vaccine is a “core vaccine” in the United States, meaning that it protects animals from a highly contagious, life-threatening disease. Rabies is a zoonotic disease—in other words, it can be transmitted from animals to humans, making it a threat to public health as well as your pets.

Even if a cat does not go outside or interact with any other animals, there is always a chance it could escape or that a rabid animal like a bat or raccoon could break into your home. Because there is no treatment for rabies in cats and the disease presents a significant risk to humans, not vaccinating your cat (regardless of whether they are indoor or outdoor) can have dire consequences.

By law, veterinarians are required to report suspected rabies cases to animal disease regulatory authorities. Many states require that unvaccinated cats who have been exposed to rabies are euthanized and sent away for testing since the disease cannot be diagnosed in living animals. In areas where euthanasia is not strictly required, the only other option is for the cat to be placed in strict quarantine to prevent the possible spread of the disease. This often has to be done at a veterinary clinic for up to four to six months, which can quickly become costly.

How long are rabies shots for cats good for?

The length of time a rabies vaccine is effective for depends on the particular vaccine given to your cat. There are several different brands of rabies vaccines approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for use in cats, and they each come with their own specific guidelines that must be followed.

Some feline rabies vaccines must be given every year, while others can be administered every 3 years. Your cat should receive their first rabies vaccine when they are a kitten (usually around 3-4 months of age), followed by a booster 1 year later. After their booster, the rabies vaccine is given every 1 or 3 years, depending on which one is used.

Which vaccine you receive can depend on what clinic your cat is vaccinated at as well as what state you live in. Your veterinarian can provide you with information on what vaccine they use and what their protocol is.

Can rabies shots make cats sick?

Like all vaccines, the rabies vaccine has potential side effects. The most common side effects seen in cats include lethargy, decreased appetite, mild fever, and a localized swelling at the injection site. These side effects are rare and usually resolve within a few days.

Previous forms of the rabies vaccine contained adjuvants, which are ingredients used to produce a stronger immune response, and they were linked to tumors called feline injection site sarcomas in a small number of cases. Most veterinary clinics have switched to using non-adjuvanted rabies vaccines to reduce the risk of injection site sarcoma, and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) states that they only occur in about 1 case per 10,000-30,000 vaccinations. If your cat has a lump at the site of injection that does not resolve within 2-3 weeks, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have it examined.

There is an extremely low risk of an allergic reaction with any vaccine given to your cat. If your cat shows signs such as facial swelling, skin rash, hives, itchiness, or difficulty breathing after receiving a vaccination, you should seek veterinary care immediately.

Although no vaccine is 100% safe, the benefits of the rabies vaccine far outweigh the risks due to the severity of the disease and the potential consequences of not vaccinating your cat.

How much do rabies shots for cats cost?

The cost of a rabies vaccine will vary widely depending on whether you get it at a veterinary clinic or a vaccine clinic, what brand of vaccine is used, and what area you live in. For example, non-adjuvanted vaccines tend to be more expensive than those containing adjuvants. In addition, the 3-year rabies vaccine is more expensive than the vaccine given annually, although it provides protection for longer.

A quick call to your local veterinary clinic can answer any questions you have about the type or cost of your cat’s rabies vaccine. They can also point you in the direction of low-cost services (which may use older or cheaper vaccines) if needed, as any rabies vaccine is better than none.

After more great kitty content? Then be sure to check out our guide to the best cat food.

Has your kitty been prescribed metronidazole for cats? It can be really confusing at the vet’s office, and often it’s hard to understand just what your pet is being prescribed and why. If you’ve come away with more questions than answers, you aren’t alone. You can always call your veterinarian back to go through their advice again, but we’ll discuss metronidazole for cats and its uses, benefits, and side effects here.

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Why do vets prescribe metronidazole?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is sometimes prescribed to animals, including dogs and cats. It works to interfere with the DNA of bacteria called anaerobes, which can survive without oxygen and are common in urine infections and some gut infections. As well as being an antibiotic, metronidazole also has activity against single-celled parasites called protozoa, so it is also used to treat infections of protozoa like Giardia. 

There has been discussion about whether metronidazole can be used as an anti-inflammatory for the gut, and for this reason it is sometimes prescribed for IBD in cats. However, it’s not generally recommended to use metronidazole for IBD anymore as it risks antibiotic resistance and has a high chance of side effects due to the long-term dosing required. Because of the risk of antibiotic resistance, your vet might only prescribe metronidazole after testing which bacteria are present and which antibiotics work best (called a ‘culture and sensitivity’ test).

What is metronidazole for cats used for?

Metronidazole for cats is a useful antibiotic. It’s used to treat gut infections with bacteria like Clostridium and protozoa like Giardia, which cause diarrhea in cats. Metronidazole is also sometimes prescribed for skin, bone, urine, and wound infections, when the bacteria are likely to be anaerobic. Other uses of metronidazole for cats include:

• Hepatic encephalopathy (a liver disease causing neurological symptoms)
• Helicobacter (an uncommon bacterial infection of the stomach)
• Severe inflammation of the mouth (gingivitis-stomatitis)

Can metronidazole be prescribed to help cats with diarrhea?

Your vet might prescribe metronidazole for your cat if they have diarrhea, but only if the diarrhea is likely to be caused by Giardia, Clostridium, or other anaerobic bacteria. This will usually require a fecal sample to be sent to a laboratory to confirm whether the diarrhea is caused by an infection. If your vet finds these bacteria in your cat’s poop, then they may prescribe metronidazole.

Historically, metronidazole was also prescribed for cats with diarrhea without evidence of infection, including cats with IBD. This is because it was thought that metronidazole could calm down the immune system due to anti-inflammatory effects. However, it’s not recommended that we use metronidazole like this anymore due to the development of antibiotic resistance. In addition, IBD is a chronic (long-lasting) illness, and using metronidazole for a long period increases the risk of side-effects.

What parasites does metronidazole treat in cats?  

Metronidazole can be used to treat protozoal parasites in cats. These are most commonly caused by a parasite called Giardia but other protozoa like Tritrichomonas fetus and Cryptosporidium may sometimes be the cause. Metronidazole treats all of these.

Metronidazole for cats dosage

It’s very important that metronidazole for cats is dosed accurately in order to avoid side effects. Your veterinarian will work out the appropriate dose for metronidazole based on your cat’s individual circumstances. In general, bacterial diseases will be treated with a dose of around 25-250 mg twice daily, depending on your cat’s weight. Giardia and some bacterial diseases may need a higher dose.

Does metronidazole have side effects in cats?

Absolutely! Like all drugs, metronidazole for cats can have side effects. While side effects are rare with careful dosing, the following may be seen:

• Vomiting
• Excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth
• Liver problems
• Low white blood cell count
• Bloody urine

In addition, severe and sometimes life-threatening neurological problems can occur, usually after long-term use or high doses.

Alongside this, metronidazole may cause cancer with chronic use and also shouldn’t be given in pregnancy as it may have toxic effects on the fetus.

How to administer metronidazole for cats 

Metronidazole for cats is usually given as a tablet, or sometimes as a liquid. You should ask your veterinarian for advice to ensure you’re dosing properly. You can hide metronidazole in a small piece of food if this makes it easier to give it to your cat.

If you miss a dose of metronidazole, give it as soon as you remember and continue giving it every 12 hours. Do not give an extra dose of metronidazole to your cat if you missed a dose.

In some cases, metronidazole is given via an intravenous drip. Your cat will have to stay in the hospital if metronidazole is to be administered like this.

How long does metronidazole take to work on cats?

How long metronidazole takes to work on cats depends on the condition being treated. A course of metronidazole for cats is usually 5-7 days, but your vet might need to adapt this for your cat’s individual circumstances. If it’s going to respond, the infection will usually be gone by the end of the course. However, the damage caused by the infection means that the symptoms can continue for a long time even after they are gone. This is especially true for gut infections, where the damage to the gut lining means that your cat may have diarrhea for several weeks after the infection has cleared.

How to tell if metronidazole is working

It can be difficult to tell if metronidazole is working for your cat, as we don’t necessarily expect symptoms to immediately improve. However, your cat’s symptoms shouldn’t be getting worse when they’re taking metronidazole – if they are, it’s time to call your vet. Your vet will often recommend repeated testing to ‘prove’ that the infection has gone. A fecal sample a few days after the course has finished is usually a good idea.

Alternatives to metronidazole for cats

Depending on what your vet is treating, there may be an alternative to metronidazole for cats. If your vet is treating a bacterial infection, some other antibiotics also work on anaerobic bacteria. If your cat has Giardia, some wormers can also work against this parasite. Metronidazole isn’t commonly used for cases of IBD anymore as long-term use is likely to result in side effects. Instead, vets might prescribe steroids or low-dose chemotherapy which help to keep the IBD under control.

Conclusion

Metronidazole for cats is a useful drug that can treat a number of bacterial infections and parasite infestations. Although it can have side effects, these are generally uncommon with careful dosing. If you’re unclear about why your cat has been prescribed metronidazole, how to give metronidazole to cats, or whether your cat has side effects of metronidazole, you should contact the prescribing veterinarian for advice.

If your cat is throwing up food after eating then it’s natural to feel concerned. After all, vomiting is usually a sign that something is wrong although that doesn’t necessarily mean the cause is serious. 

The main thing at this stage is getting to the bottom of the problem so that your cat can get the best care. That may be something you’re able to address at home or an issue that you feel is best looked after by a vet.

In this guide, our expert vet Dr Joanna Woodnutt takes us through the probable causes and when you should seek professional help. We also examine some products that could prevent the issue in the future.

Why is my cat throwing up after eating?

There are many reasons why your cat is throwing up after eating. Your pet may be:

• A bit too greedy: Eating too fast or eating too much can cause a kitty to vomit.
• Having trouble with fur balls: All cats suffer from occasional hairballs when grooming.
• Eating new food: There’s a knack for changing cat food safely.
• ‘Off’ his or her food: Cat not eating? It’s not always due to a fussy feline and is worth looking into.
• Stressed: Addressing anxiety in cats is important.
• Suffering a bowel obstruction: Ingesting a foreign body can cause an upset stomach in cats.
• Simply ill: Worms (intestinal parasites), inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), kidney disease, hyperthyroidism and cancer can cause cats to throw up after eating food.

When is vomiting a problem?

If your cat is vomiting after every meal, it suggests something severe is going on. On the other hand, cats who vomit occasionally after eating but otherwise seem well are less likely to be seriously ill. It’s important that you keep an eye on your cat even if they seem to be well, as vomiting cats can quickly deteriorate.

Why is my cat throwing up food but acting normal?

Cats are secretive creatures and they’ll often try to act normal no matter how sick they feel. If your cat is throwing up food but still acting normal they could still have an issue that needs support from a vet.

Why does my cat only throw up wet or dry food?

Sometimes you’ll notice your cat will only be sick after one type of food. This could be due to an intolerance to the food, but usually, it’s a simpler explanation. For many felines, wet cat food is a favorite. 

Whilst they’ll graze on dry food all day, they’ll scarf down any wet food you provide as soon as it goes down on the floor – and then vomit it back up again. Try to work out if your cat throws up with all wet foods, or whether it’s a particular brand or flavor. You might want to look into best slow feeder cat bowls to stop your cat from eating so fast and vomiting.

When should I be concerned about my cat vomiting?

Knowing what to do if your cat is throwing up is important. The frequency of vomiting is important – if your cat vomits after eating just once, or it’s a rare occurrence (once a month or less often), then you can monitor them and bring it up with your vet at their next appointment. 

If your cat is vomiting after eating at least once a week, you should book an appointment to visit your vet. And if your cat is vomiting more than once a day, or is unable to keep food down, you should make an urgent appointment with your veterinarian. 

Look for other symptoms of being ill such as lethargy, diarrhea, or a poor appetite. If your cat is throwing up after eating but is otherwise acting normal, it’s unlikely to be an emergency, but you should still book a check-up with your vet if it’s more frequent than once a month. 

When to visit your vet

It’s important to visit your vet if your cat shows signs of poor appetite, being hungry all the time, weight loss, thirst, more frequent urination, lethargy or diarrhea.

How to stop my cat from throwing up after eating

It’s hard to stop a cat from throwing up after eating unless you can find the cause of the problem but, for many cats, an identifiable cause is never found. Once you and your vet have ruled out some of the more serious diseases that can cause throwing up after eating, you could try these two potential solutions:

Slow your cat’s eating: ‘Scarf and barf’ is common so, for many cats, the cause of the vomiting is eating too much, too quickly. This sometimes happens with a particular flavor or type of food if your cat particularly enjoys one flavor over another. Try one of the best slow feeder cat bowls or one of the best anti-vomit cat bowls although there is no scientific evidence that anti-vomit cat bowls work.

Relieve stress: Consider ways to help your cat deal with their anxiety. Providing hiding places and reducing changes around the house can help your cat relax and keep their food down.

Want more cat content like this? Check out our features on what to do if your cat is throwing up white foam or acid reflux in cats.

Diabetes in cats is a relatively common condition, affecting nearly 1% of cats at some point in their lives. Even with the best pet insurance, diabetes can be tricky to diagnose and challenging to manage. Some cats go into diabetic remission with prompt and effective treatment, but most cats require lifelong management.

The good news is that most diabetic cats go on to live long and healthy lives, especially if you diagnose the condition early and follow your veterinarian’s treatment recommendations. Left untreated, however, diabetes can lead to serious complications including starvation, diabetic ketoacidosis, and even death. 

What causes diabetes in cats?

Diabetes is a disorder of blood glucose (sugar) regulation. Cats with diabetes experience prolonged periods of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose), causing the clinical signs and negative consequences that we associate with this condition.

In a healthy cat, blood glucose levels are regulated by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. When blood glucose levels are high, the pancreas releases insulin. The body’s cells respond to insulin release by moving glucose from the blood into the cells, lowering the cat’s blood glucose level. 

In a cat with diabetes, there is not enough insulin to trigger the movement of glucose into cells. Therefore, a diabetic cat has persistently high blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, the cells are literally being starved of nutrition. 

If you’re familiar with diabetes in humans, you have likely heard of the distinction between Type I and Type II diabetes. Type I diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin. Type II diabetes, in contrast, is caused by insulin resistance, or the body’s failure to respond to insulin. Diabetic cats typically have Type II diabetes. Their body is producing insulin, but their cells have become resistant to insulin’s effects. Risk factors for Type II diabetes in cats include obesity, lack of physical activity, age, and the use of steroids (such as prednisone). 

In contrast, dogs develop Type I diabetes. Diabetes in dogs is caused by insufficient insulin production within the pancreas. 

What are the symptoms of diabetes in a cat?

The most common signs of diabetes are increased thirst, increased urination, and weight loss despite a ravenous appetite. Owners often notice their cat drinking a lot of water, or that their cat’s not eating, or the cat losing weight. 

As a cat’s diabetes becomes more advanced, more pronounced signs of illness may develop. Cats may develop weakness in the hind end, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. In some cases, cats may become very ill with a metabolic condition known diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition is associated with vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, lethargy, and death. 

How to test for diabetes in cats

If you or your veterinarian suspect your cat may have diabetes, it’s important to begin with a thorough physical exam. Your veterinarian will closely evaluate your cat, looking for evidence of other medical conditions that could be mistaken for diabetes. 

Next, your veterinarian will recommend laboratory tests, including a complete blood cell count (CBC), serum biochemistry profile, and urinalysis. These tests can help rule out other conditions that may be mistaken for diabetes, such as hyperthyroidism, kidney failure in cats, and pancreatitis in cats. 

An elevated blood glucose level and the presence of glucose in the urine suggest the possibility of diabetes. However, additional confirmatory testing, such as a fructosamine test, may be required. Some cats develop high blood sugar when stressed (stress hyperglycemia), so it’s important to ensure that the hyperglycemia is significant before beginning treatment.

How to treat diabetes in a cat

The goal of diabetes treatment is to stabilize your cat’s blood glucose levels. Your veterinarian will strive to prevent the clinical signs and potential complications of diabetes, while also minimizing the risk of life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood glucose).

Diabetic cats should be fed a low-carbohydrate diet. Prescription diets are often the best option, although some over-the-counter diets can also be beneficial. Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your diabetic cat. Feeding consistent quantities of a low-carbohydrate diet is a mainstay of feline diabetes treatment. 

Insulin injections are also an important component of diabetes treatment. Your cat will likely require twice-daily insulin injections for the rest of their life. While some cats go into diabetic remission with treatment, many cats require lifelong care. There are a variety of insulins available for use in cats; your veterinarian will select the best insulin for your cat based on efficacy, availability, your budget, and other factors. 

Your veterinarian will also work with you to treat any concurrent infections that your cat may have. Cats with diabetes are more susceptible to infections, such as dental disease and urinary tract infections. These infections can make diabetes significantly more difficult to regulate. Detecting and treating secondary infections is a vital component of diabetes management. 

During the early stages of treatment, your cat will need regular glucose monitoring to fine-tune their insulin dosing. This monitoring typically involves all-day glucose curves performed in the veterinary hospital, but your veterinarian may be able to offer options for at-home monitoring. Recheck veterinary visits and insulin adjustments are common in the early stages of diabetes treatment, and this early stage of diabetes management can be relatively costly and time-consuming. Once your cat’s optimal insulin dosage has been found, however, the frequency of your cat’s veterinary visits may decrease to as little as once every three months.

Summary

Diabetes in cats is a relatively common cause of increased thirst/urination and weight loss in older cats. If your cat has signs of diabetes, talk to your veterinarian about testing for this condition. An early diagnosis can improve your cat’s outcomes and improve the likelihood of successfully managing your cat’s condition. With prompt diagnosis and proactive, ongoing veterinary care, most cats with diabetes can go on to live a relatively healthy life. 

Read next: 10 signs your cat is diabetic.

Ringworm in cats can cause skin lesions on other pets as well as humans. This article will explain all about ringworm in cats, from symptoms and how it's spread, to treatment and prevention. 

It's important to remember that cats get many other problems with their skin, so if you notice a problem with your cat's skin it might not necessarily be ringworm. It could be that you have a cat with allergies, there’s a flea infestation or it’s mange mites that are causing the problem. 

So, how do you know if your cat’s skin problems are caused by ringworm? Let’s find out.

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What is ringworm in cats? 

You’d be forgiven for thinking, due to its name, that ringworm is a type of worm. However, ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm at all. So, what causes cat ringworm? Despite its misleading name, ringworm is caused by a fungal infection. 

The family of fungi that causes ringworm are known as dermatophytes. Different dermatophytes can infect different species of animal, however, there is a lot of cross-over, meaning that humans and dogs are also susceptible to ringworm from cats. 

How do cats get ringworm? 

Dermatophytes spread very easily between infected animals or people, but ringworm can also be caught from contaminated objects or surfaces. The ringworm fungus on any untreated surface can linger for up to eighteen months, meaning that cross infection from contaminated brushes, bedding, or other items is common if proper hygiene isn’t used. 

This means that even indoor cats are at risk, especially if the pet parent has contact with other animals or contaminated pet equipment. Another issue with cats getting ringworm is that they can carry the fungus without showing any signs. These asymptomatic carriers can spread the fungus to other cats, dogs, or even people, without it being obvious that they are the source.

Signs of ringworm in cats 

The symptoms of ringworm in cats aren't as straightforward as you might think. For instance, ringworm is so-called because the bald, crusty skin lesions are often round or ring-shaped. However, this isn't always the case, and skin lesions can be irregularly shaped and variable in size. 

Some cats with ringworm just have a slightly scurfy coat or brittle, flaky nails, and some will show no signs at all. This means it’s important to get your cat checked by a vet if any skin or coat symptoms, no matter how mild. If you, a member of your family, or another of your pets is diagnosed with ringworm, you should get your cat checked by the vet even if they seem fine.

How long are cats contagious with ringworm? 

If your cat’s ringworm is left untreated, they may remain infected and contagious for around six months. However, even with the right treatment given at the correct dose, your cat will still be contagious for at least three weeks. Don't forget though, they could also be contaminating their environment during this time. 

You might wonder, if that’s the case, how long does a cat with ringworm need to be quarantined? Well, you should consider your cat and their environment contagious and continue treatment until they have tested negative for dermatophyte culture twice. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you of when it’s safe to stop treatment.

Treating ringworm in cats 

Sadly, there are no effective home remedies for ringworm. Topical and oral anti-fungal treatments can be used and will need to be prescribed by your vet. It’s important to follow the vet’s instructions strictly, and not stop the medication early or miss any treatments. 

You might be tempted to wash your cat in the bath, to help to clear up the ringworm faster. But should you bathe a cat with ringworm? The answer is no, unless your vet has prescribed a medicated anti-fungal shampoo, it’s best not to bathe your cat because normal pet shampoo won’t be effective, and you’ll cause more environmental contamination.

Managing ringworm at home 

If your cat or another pet has been diagnosed with ringworm, you should avoid direct contact with them and wear gloves when you are treating them. If possible, you should keep them confined to an area of the house where they have no direct contact with other pets or people. 

That way, you can also reduce the spread and keep environmental contamination to a minimum. Surfaces and objects that they are in contact with should be disinfected daily, as should any combs, brushes, food bowls, and other objects.

Can humans get ringworm from cats? 

Humans and dogs can get ringworm from cats through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. 

Can ringworm live in cat litter? 

Dermatophytes, the fungus causing ringworm, can live on surfaces and objects including combs, bowls, and cat litter for up to 18 months. Therefore, if your cat is diagnosed with ringworm it’s important to deal with the fungal spores in the environment too.

Preventing ringworm in cats 

While disinfecting pet brushes and using strict hygiene measures after handling other animals will help to reduce the chances of ringworm, sadly it can’t be prevented. However, if you know what to look for you can spot the signs early. 

If you brush your cat regularly, you’ll know what’s normal for them and quickly notice any changes that could suggest a problem. If you’re concerned about whether your cat might have ringworm, your veterinarian can send some coat brushings to the laboratory to check for dermatophytes.

Summary 

Ringworm in cats can be a real problem, and it can cause skin lesions on your family and other pets. If you notice any changes in your cat's skin or fur, you should take them to the vet. If the veterinarian diagnoses ringworm, follow the treatment protocol closely to make sure that the infection clears up quickly and doesn’t come back.

Find out the difference between ringworm and hot spots on cats here. 

Your cat may benefit from receiving cat sedatives if they get frightened at stressful but necessary events like going to the veterinary clinic or travelling. Or perhaps if they become aggressive when you’re trimming their nails or grooming them at home.

Oral sedatives from your veterinarian can help reduce your cat’s fear and anxiety and make the fractious cat easier to handle.  Before your cat needs to be sedated, it’s important to first consult your veterinarian to develop a plan to sedate your cat safely and effectively. Read on to learn more about using sedatives in cats and how they can help your cat.

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Why would a cat need to be sedated?

Your veterinarian may recommend sedating your cat for veterinary visits if your cat tends to be very fearful, anxious, or aggressive in the veterinary clinic. 

This not only helps your cat feel less stressed, but also ensures your safety and that of the veterinary team when handling your cat.  Most importantly, your cat will be less fearful and will have a more positive experience during his or her veterinary visit.

Similarly, sedation may also be used to keep a cat calm during travel, such as long car rides, or in stressful situations such as moving to a new home. A sedative can make this process go more smoothly for both cat and owner by mitigating the cat’s anxiety and reducing the cat’s fear in this new and potentially scary situation.

Veterinarians also use sedatives to anesthetize your cat for certain procedures or prior to surgery.  This ensures that your cat is safe, comfortable, pain-free, and immobile during the procedure.  These sedatives are administered at the veterinary clinic under the supervision of the veterinary team.

How is a cat sedated?

There are several ways a cat can be sedated.  If your veterinarian has asked you to sedate your cat prior to a veterinary visit, you will be given pills or capsules to be administered to your cat by mouth at home.  

These pills may be given the night before the appointment and/or a few hours prior to the appointment.  This ensures that your cat will receive the full sedative effect when it is time for the appointment. 

A similar process may be used for other stressful events, such as car rides, moving, thunderstorms, or other scary happenings.  Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions closely so that your cat gets the full effect of the medication but does not receive an overdose.

After receiving oral sedation medications, your cat will be calmer, more relaxed, and maybe a little groggy.  Your cat will not be fully anesthetized or “out of it”.  The sedation medication is just enough to take the edge off of your cat’s anxiety and should not put him or her fully to sleep.

In the veterinary clinic, a cat is often sedated using injectable sedative medications.  These anesthetic medications are used to facilitate certain procedures or to prepare your cat for surgery.  

The medication is injected either intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV).  These medications will fully anesthetize your cat or put him or her to sleep so that the procedure can be safely performed.

Can I sedate my cat at home?

Your veterinarian may prescribe one or two medications for you to give to your cat at home to sedate your cat for an upcoming event such as a veterinary visit or a long car ride.  

Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely to get the maximum benefit from the sedation while ensuring your cat is safe. With your veterinarian’s permission, it’s best to test the sedative at home on a typical day first, so you’ll know exactly how the sedative will affect your cat prior to the big day.

Never try to sedate your cat at home using over the counter treatments or home remedies. Sedating your cat at home without your veterinarian’s guidance can be very dangerous for your cat.  

If you feel your cat needs to be sedated, speak to your veterinarian first.  Your veterinarian will give you a safe and effective plan for sedating your cat.

What happens after my cat is sedated?

After your cat is sedated with oral medications, he/she may be a little groggy, sleepy, or quieter than usual.  Your cat will not be completely asleep or “flat out”, but will still be awake and aware of the world around him or her.  

The sedation will simply help take the edge off of his or her fear and anxiety to make stressful events go more smoothly.  

After the scary event is over, your cat may sleep more than normal or may want to hide and be alone until the sedation has worn off.  Once the sedation has worn off – usually within a few hours to a day – your cat will be back to his or her normal, happy self.

Summary

Veterinary visits, car rides, thunderstorms – whenever you may need to sedate your cat, make sure you’re doing it safely and effectively.  Follow your veterinarian’s instructions to sedate your cat safely, and only use medications or supplements given to you by your veterinarian.  

Be sure to follow your vet’s dosing instructions exactly, and never double the dose or re-dose your cat without first consulting your vet for instructions.  Never use over the counter medications or home remedies to sedate a cat, as these may be dangerous for your cat, particularly if dosed incorrectly. 

If you have any questions about sedating your cat or helping your cat through stressful experiences, contact your veterinarian for further advice.

Arthritis in cats is a painful condition, which progresses over time. It’s alarmingly common, affecting around 90% of cats over the age of 12 years. 

While it is more common in elderly cats, it can affect cats at any age. Sadly, arthritis cannot be cured. However, it can usually be successfully managed, so that cats can enjoy a good quality of life for many years. 

In most cases, the earlier arthritis is detected, the better the outcome. This, coupled with the fact that cats hide signs of illness and pain extremely well, means it’s important for pet parents to be aware of the early signs of pain in cats to watch out for. 

• My cat is limping: Vet's guide to causes and what to do

What is arthritis in cats?

Arthritis is a degenerative disease of the joints. It is also known as osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease (DJD). Arthritis in cats can affect one, or multiple, joints.

The bones in a healthy joint glide smoothly past each other. This is facilitated by a thin layer of smooth cartilage covering the bones, acting to cushion the joint, and lubricating joint fluid. 

In arthritis, the cartilage is damaged, meaning its surface is no longer smooth. This creates friction when the bones move past each other, which causes inflammation and further damages the cartilage. Over time the joint becomes more and more painful and stiff, as new bone forms around the joint.

There are two types of arthritis in cats. Primary arthritis has no obvious cause and is thought to be due to wear and tear of the joint as the cat ages. Secondary arthritis happens as a result of an abnormality in the joint, such as hip dysplasia, or following an injury or trauma.

Causes of arthritis in cats

The exact cause of arthritis in cats is not yet known. However, there are some factors which increase the risk of arthritis developing. 

For example, some breeds are at greater risk of abnormal joint development, meaning they are at greater risk of secondary arthritis. Maine Coons are a good example since they are prone to Hip Dysplasia. An injury to the joint, such as a fracture or dislocation, will make secondary arthritis much more likely. 

Lastly, being obese puts extra pressure on the joints, which may predispose to arthritis by speeding wear and tear of the joint; and can certainly make existing arthritis worse.

Symptoms of arthritis in cats

The early symptoms of arthritis in cats can be very subtle and easy to miss. Remember, cats are a prey species as well as being predators, so their natural instinct is to hide signs of pain or illness.

The symptoms of arthritis in cats include:

• Over or under-grooming 
• Matted fur
• Saliva staining around the joints 
• Fur loss
• Sleeping more than usual
• Hiding
• Behavioral changes (shying away from touch, reluctance to play or unusual grumpiness)
• Inappropriate toileting outside of the litter box
• Stiffness, especially when rising from rest
• Muscle wastage
• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
• Limping
• Swollen joints

It’s important that you book an appointment with your vet if you notice any of these symptoms in your cat.

Can arthritis in cats be treated?

Arthritis cannot be cured in cats, but it can be successfully managed with treatment. The goals of treatment are to slow the progression of the disease, to keep the cat mobile and to treat pain.

Veterinary treatment for arthritis can include:

• Pain relief medication - The most commonly used pain relief is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This is because they treat pain, while also reducing heat and swelling (inflammation) in the joint. Other drugs which may be used alongside, or instead of, NSAIDs include buprenorphine, gabapentin, tramadol and amantadine. These medications are all given by mouth. There is also a monthly injection which has recently become available, of monoclonal antibody therapy. This works in a different way from NSAIDs; working like your cat's naturally made antibodies to reduce pain signals.
• Surgery - Surgery may be appropriate in some cases, such as in cats with underlying hip or elbow dysplasia.
• Alternative therapies - Your vet may recommend ‘alternative therapies’, to be used alongside medical treatment. For example, physiotherapy may help to maintain or improve your cat’s range of motion, while acupuncture (by a vet) is sometimes used for additional pain relief. Some vet practices can also offer laser therapy.

Each of these treatments has its own pros and cons, and there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach. Every cat is unique, with unique needs. Your vet will tailor a treatment plan to suit your cat’s age, underlying medical conditions and type of arthritis.

Can catnip or CBD oil help cats with arthritis?

There is no evidence that catnip can help with arthritis. In the UK, you cannot give CBD oil to your cat without a veterinary prescription, and at present, there is not enough evidence to support its use in arthritis.

Should you euthanize a cat with arthritis? 

Arthritis can often be successfully managed, so a diagnosis of arthritis shouldn’t automatically be a cause to consider euthanasia. However, arthritis will inevitably progress and at some point, the pain may well become bad enough that euthanasia is the kindest option.

How long can a cat live with arthritis?

This will depend on the cat's age and overall health, for example, if they have other underlying medical conditions. Arthritis can often be successfully managed for several years.

How to help a cat with arthritis at home

You’ll be pleased to hear there are plenty of things you can do to help your arthritic cat at home too:

Weight control

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight will alleviate the pressure on their joints. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to help you with a weight management plan if you’re struggling.

Diet

The best food for cats with arthritis will depend on their age, overall health and if they have any other medical conditions. You can purchase diets tailored for arthritis, which have added nutrients to benefit the joint. Have a chat with your vet or vet nurse about the best diet for your cat.

Dietary supplements

Joint supplements aim to increase your cat’s intake of the nutrients that are important for joint health. Glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 are the most common ingredients. 

These products are currently unregulated, meaning they vary greatly in quality, composition and palatability. Your vet will be able to advise you on suitable options for your cat. 

Home modifications

Simple changes, such as non-slip mats on hard floors and using ramps, can make a big difference. Offer plenty of warm, comfy beds and a low-sided, easy-access litter tray.

Remember, none of these home measures will be enough to treat arthritis on their own and they must be used alongside veterinary treatment. 

While arthritis in cats cannot be cured and will inevitably progress, it can usually be successfully managed, giving your cat a good quality of life for many years. 

Remember, the sooner treatment is started the better, so be sure to book an appointment with your vet if you have any concerns about your cat.

For other ways to help a cat with arthritis, you might also want to consider the question, ‘Should I elevate my cat’s food bowl?’ 

Hot spots on cats can be frustrating for you as well as itchy and sore for your feline friend. After all, no one wants to see their cat showing signs of pain or discomfort, not to mention that hot spots can end up looking and smelling quite unpleasant.

What is a hot spot?

A hot spot is an area of itchy and oozy skin that’s usually very inflamed and infected. As it becomes more inflamed and infected, it becomes more itchy, meaning that the cat bothers with it even more and a vicious cycle commences.

They’re often not noticed immediately by pet parents because their cat’s fur will cover it. However, as the hot spot progresses, you’ll probably notice some tell-tale signs.

Signs of hot spots on cats

If your cat is developing a hot spot, the first signs you might notice are excessive or overgrooming of a particular area.

You might notice that the fur often looks wet in that area and that your cat is paying some extra attention to it.

Depending on the location, they might keep scratching at it with their claws or rubbing it against things. If you’ve got a sensitive sense of smell, you might also notice that your cat has become a bit pongy!

How to identify a hot spot on a cat

A hot spot can be found anywhere on a cat’s body, but they most commonly occur on the face, neck, rump, groin, or tummy.

As the skin becomes more inflamed and infected, you might see areas of pink, raw skin with no fur. You might notice damp or matted cat fur where the oozy discharge has dried.

Sometimes, you can’t see the hot spot itself because it becomes covered with a scab and clogged with fur. However, if you find an area of skin that feels hard or scabby, it’s worth trying to gently investigate in case it’s a hot spot.

Hot spots vs ringworm symptoms

It’s really important to recognize the difference between hot spots and ringworm in cats, because you, other family members, or other pets could catch ringworm from your cat.

Cats aren’t usually itchy with ringworm, and they can be asymptomatic carriers. The appearance of cats with ringworm might be completely normal, they might have slight dandruff on their coat, or they might have round bald patches with scurf or crusts of skin. If you’re not sure whether your cat has ringworm you should see a vet right away.

Causes of hot spots on cats

Anything that causes a break in your cat’s skin or causes the skin to become itchy or irritated can lead to a hot spot. Here are some examples of causes of hot spots on cats:

Fleas or flea allergies

These pesky parasites are a common cause of allergies in cats. Even if your cat isn’t allergic to flea bites, the scratching caused by fleas damages the skin allowing bacteria to enter and a hot spot to form. If your cat has fleas, you might see them crawling around in their fur or spot flea dirt (tiny black specs).

However, if your cat has a flea allergy, just one flea bite could cause them to become very itchy. In that case, your cat might have red bumps or scabs on their back or around their neck, and you might notice some fur loss.

You can find out more about fleas and how to deal with them in our article ‘how do cats get fleas?’.

Contact allergies or irritation

If your cat lies on a carpet that’s just been cleaned with Shake and Vac, or if they lie on the kitchen tiles after you’ve mopped, these chemicals could irritate their skin or cause contact allergic reactions.

Anything from cleaning products and household chemicals to DIY supplies can cause problems with your cat’s skin, and could even be toxic. Therefore, it’s best to only use pet-safe products and prevent exposure as much as you can.

If your cat has a contact allergy you might notice them licking their underside or their paws excessively, and the skin might become red and inflamed.

Other allergies

Cats can also have allergies to food, pollens, house dust mites, and other environmental allergens. Skin allergies can cause excessive scratching, overgrooming, and thinning of the fur.

You might notice clumps of fur around the house if your feline friend is particularly enthusiastic about pulling their fur out. Why not read our article about common allergies in cats to find out more?

Clipper rash

If your cat has recently had a visit to the vet and they had to do a blood test, scan, or surgical procedure, they’ll probably have been shaved.

Sometimes, if your cat’s skin is very sensitive, the clipping process can irritate the skin, causing a red rash that might attract your cat to lick it. The hair regrowth can also cause itchiness, and both situations can occasionally lead to hot spots.

Stress and overgrooming

Cats are very susceptible to stress and anxiety. Anything from a new cat next door, to a new extension on the house, can cause your cat to feel stressed. A stressed cat may hide away more, become more vocal, or overgroom.

It can also cause health issues like cystitis or other urinary tract infections. If your cat does start overgrooming due to stress, it’s often the case that the continued licking removes the fur and damages the skin. Over time a hot spot can develop.

Treating hot spots in cats

Hot spots on cats can sometimes be treated by shaving the area to allow thorough and regular cleaning and removal of any debris.

However, many cats will continue to lick the area because it's sore. Therefore, a veterinarian may need to prescribe additional medication including a steroid cream, injection, or tablets to remove the itch and some antibiotics to clear the infection.

Home remedies for hot spots in cats

If you have a set of clippers, you can try to gently remove the fur from the area. You should never use a razor or scissors because these aren't safe. Once the fur is removed you should bathe the area with a saltwater solution twice or three times daily and try to prevent your cat from licking at it.

But how do you know what to do if a hot spot on a cat won't heal? How do you know when to visit your vet? Well, if your cat seems unwell, is continuing to lick the hotspot or the skin doesn’t seem to be drying and healing after a couple of days, make an appointment with your vet.

How to prevent hot spots in cats

Keeping up to date with flea treatments, spotting signs of overgrooming or stress, avoiding contact with household chemicals, and making sure your cat’s collar isn’t rubbing are all steps you can take to reduce the risk of hot spots.

You should also check your cat’s skin regularly to make sure it looks healthy. That way you can spot the signs early and hopefully prevent a hotspot from developing.

Read more about the best flea treatments for cats and best flea collars for cats

Edited by Georgia Guerin

Our furry family members can't tell us when they're in pain or feeling unwell. And any vet will tell you that their job would be a lot easier if the pets they were treating could talk! So, if they can't talk, how can you tell if your cat is in pain? 

This article covers cat behavior and the signs of pain in cats so that you know what to look out for and when to be concerned. That way, you can get the help you need and make sure your cat isn't suffering in silence. 

If you're interested in cat behavior and understanding how kitty's feeling, why not also read our article on cat body language? And if your feline appears out of sorts to usual, our guide to depression in cats can help you spot the warning signs.

• My cat is limping: Vet's guide to causes and what to do
• Why is my cat crying? Vet's guide to what it means and what to do

How do cats show emotion?

Although cats don't smile, laugh or cry as we do, they're still pretty good at making their emotions clear; you just need to know what to look for. 

Just like humans, cats' facial expressions will change depending on how they feel. If they're angry they might raise their lips to show their teeth, and their ears might lie flat to their head. 

Cats will also change their behavior depending on their mood, so if they're sad or scared they might withdraw and hide, or if they're happy they might rub against your legs. Their posture, body language, and the noises they make will also change depending on their mood and emotions. 

Signs of pain in cats

As you can see, if you know what you're looking for you'll realize that cats are giving you plenty of clues about what they're feeling. You can use these pointers to find out whether they might be in pain.

Facial expression

A cat in pain might seem to be squinting or frowning. Their eyes might even seem to be almost closed. They'll also tend to have a very tense jaw and muzzle, meaning that their nose, lips, and lower jaw form a flatter, ellipse shape rather than being round like normal. 

Their ears may be tilted backward or even flat to their head. Rather than being curved, their whiskers will be straighter and project forward rather than outward.

Behavior changes

Cats who are in pain may be less interested in affection and interaction. So, they might hide away and move very little. 

They might stray from their usual routine of eating, playing, toileting and venturing outside, preferring to be more sedentary and stay somewhere quiet. As well as staying out of the way, they might growl, hiss, or act aggressively and irritably in other ways.

• 11 things to check when your cat’s not eating

Body language

Cats who are in pain may not want to be touched. So, they might not approach you to sit on your lap for a fuss like they usually do. 

Instead, they may avoid you and you might notice them flinching when you go to touch them. On the other hand, some cats become more affectionate and open to touch when they are in pain or unwell, just like many humans who might also want a cuddle when they're sick or suffering.

Posture

If your cat is in pain, you might notice them limping, holding one paw up, or struggling to walk. However, sometimes the signs of pain are much more subtle than that. 

For instance, a cat in pain might not have a limp or any obvious mobility problems, but their posture might be hunched with their head lowered.

Vocalization

Cats don't always cry out in pain when they are sore, although loud meowing or yowling could indicate severe or sudden pain. Sometimes, cats become much quieter and less chatty than they would usually be. 

It's also worth remembering that, although purring is sometimes a sign of a contented cat, it can also be a sign of pain. This is because cats often purr to reassure themselves and self-soothe.

Signs an older cat is in pain

If you have an older cat who's getting a bit stiff from arthritis, you might find it tricky to decide whether they're in pain. However, if you look closely at their appearance and behavior, you can often spot the signs. 

Older cats with arthritis often stop grooming as much as they used to, so they have unkempt or clumpy fur, often with some dandruff. If they use a litter box, you might notice they struggle to get in their toileting positions as quickly as they used to, and their aim might not be as good. 

If you watch them as they move around, you might spot that they're more hesitant to jump onto the sofa or window sill or perform other tasks that they used to do with ease.

What to do if you suspect your cat is in pain

If you think your cat might in pain, you should take them to see a veterinarian right away. The vet can check for broken bones, wounds, and other serious injuries, as well as give them pain relief medication to make them comfortable. 

You mustn't try to treat your cat at home without a vet's advice, since paracetamol, ibuprofen, and some other human medications are toxic to cats.

• Is my cat sick? 11 signs to take your cat to the vet

How to tell if a cat is dying

If you think your cat is dying you should take them to a vet immediately. The signs that a cat is about to pass away are quite varied, but include extreme lethargy, shallow or fast breathing, gasping, and dilated pupils. 

Seizures, feeling cool to the touch, unresponsiveness, and unusual vocalization are also signs that something could be seriously wrong.

How do you comfort a dying cat?

If you are worried that your cat might be dying, you must take them to a vet. Losing your companion is the hardest thing, and sometimes it can seem like a blessing if they pass naturally at home. 

However, this is rarely as pleasant or quick as you'd imagine, and it could mean that your poorly kitty suffers for hours or even days. Although deciding to have your pet put to sleep is a horrible decision, it's the kindest thing you can do.

How can you tell if a cat is purring in pain?

Because cats purr when they're happy, when they're stressed, and when they're in pain or unwell, you might not find it easy to work out if your purring cat is in pain. 

However, keep an eye out for other signs of pain, like a change in their routine, behavior, posture, and body language. If your cat wouldn't normally purr in a particular situation, this could also be a sign they're in pain. If you're not certain, it's best to take them to the vet clinic just in case.

How do you comfort a sick cat in pain?

If your cat is in pain, they need to see a vet for treatment. Once the vet has determined the cause of the pain and prescribed treatment, you might need to care for them at home. A padded, cozy bed somewhere quiet with easy access to food, water, and a litter box, will help to keep your kitty comfortable while they recover.

As humans, we find it easier to read other people's emotions than our cat's emotions, because that's what we're used to. But, cats are actually very good at letting us know how they're feeling, as long as you know what signs to look for. By keeping an eye out for signs of pain in your cat, you can make sure your kitty is as comfortable as possible.

Are you wondering, ‘Why is my cat shaking?’, then this vet’s guide is a good place to start. Questioning ‘Why is my cat overgrooming? It might be a sign that they’re in pain.

Kidney failure in cats can be due to CKD, Chronic kidney disease, or acute kidney injury. CKD is a type of kidney failure, and it is one of the most common diseases seen in geriatric cats. 

Having pet insurance in place when you get a cat can help offset the financial costs associated with CKD and kidney failure so that you can focus your attention on caring for your feline friend. 

Keep reading to learn more about kidney failure in cats, what signs to look out for, and how it’s treated. 

• Best cat litter box: Get the best bathroom for your feline friend
• How to stop a cat from peeing in the house

What is kidney failure in cats? 

Kidney failure occurs when there is a loss in kidney function of approximately 75%. This prevents the kidneys from performing their many jobs, including eliminating waste products from the blood, regulating hydration, maintaining electrolyte balance, controlling blood pressure, and stimulating red blood cell production.

 The ability of the kidneys to repair themselves after damage is limited, so kidney disease is usually progressive.

Conditions of CKD or acute kidney injury may look similar in some cases, but the difference lies in the duration of disease. 

Acute kidney injury occurs abruptly following a sudden deterioration in kidney function due to causes such as blood clots resulting from heart disease or cancer, toxins like anti-freeze and lilies, infections, certain drugs, and severe illnesses such as acute pancreatitis.

Causes of Chronic kidney disease 

This article will focus on kidney failure due to CKD, as it is one of the most common diseases diagnosed in older cats, with some studies suggesting that it may affect up to 30-50% of cats over the age of 15 years. 

Causes of CKD include congenital diseases (i.e., polycystic kidney disease in Persian cats), kidney infections, and certain cancers. Many cases do not have an apparent underlying cause, however. 

Chronic kidney disease commonly leads to issues like anemia, hypertension, and loss of muscle mass.

Symptoms of kidney failure in cats 

Because CKD has a gradual onset, it can be easy to miss in the early stages. Symptoms include: 

• Increased thirst and urinations
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hindlimb weakness, sometimes seen with a plantigrade, or “flat-footed,” stance
• Unkempt coat
• Bad breath, sometimes with a uremic smell, which can smell of ammonia or urine
• Constipation
• Pale gums
• Behavioral changes

Stages of kidney failure in cats

Chronic kidney disease is classified using the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) staging system. There are four stages, 1-4, with higher stages relating to more severe kidney failure.

Staging is performed after CKD is diagnosed to determine disease severity and appropriate treatment. It is based on blood levels of creatinine and/or SDMA (waste products). The disease is then substaged based on the presence of protein in the urine and the cat’s blood pressure.

Diagnosis of kidney failure in cats

Chronic kidney disease is diagnosed in cats who show signs of kidney function loss, including dilute urine, protein in the urine, and increased waste byproducts (urea and creatinine) in the blood, over 3 months or more. 

When a vet suspects CKD, they will obtain a thorough history, conduct a physical examination, and perform blood and urine tests. They may also wish to send a urine sample to the lab for culture, as cats with CKD are prone to urinary tract infections due to their dilute urine. Lastly, imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound may be recommended.

Treatment of kidney failure in cats 

Since the kidneys cannot repair themselves, there is no cure for CKD. Several things can be done to slow the progression of disease, however. One of the best things that can be done for a cat with CKD is to feed them a veterinary therapeutic renal diet that has been clinically proven to prolong survival time. 

These diets are low in protein to decrease the workload of the kidneys, and they contain low levels of phosphorus to slow disease progression and increased fat to supply extra calories. If a cat will not eat a renal diet, however, they should be fed whatever food they will eat to ensure that they receive enough calories and nutrients.

In addition, phosphate binders can be prescribed for cats with high phosphate levels that do not lessen with dietary management, and ACE inhibitors can be used to reduce the presence of protein in the urine. 

Any underlying diseases, like hypertension, urinary tract infections, or anemia, should be addressed to prevent deterioration. Fluid therapy can be considered to keep cats hydrated, and some owners may even be able to give subcutaneous fluids at home. 

Lastly, anti-nausea medications and appetite stimulants can be considered in cats with decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting.

The frequency of monitoring in cats with kidney failure depends upon IRIS stage and how stable the patient is, with more frequent monitoring required for cats with more severe disease.

Is kidney failure in cats painful? 

Although kidney failure in itself is not painful, it can significantly affect quality of life in cats as it progresses. Your veterinarian can help you determine whether your cat’s quality of life has deteriorated, and if so, to what extent.

Prognosis of kidney failure in cats 

Because CKD is a multifactorial disease with several potential causes, its prognosis varies between patients. Certain factors worsen prognosis, including the presence of anemia, protein in the urine, elevated phosphorus levels, low white blood cell counts, high creatinine levels, and old age.

Although prognosis cannot be predicted with certainty, many cats at lower IRIS stages with stable disease can live happily for several years before they deteriorate.

When to euthanize a cat with kidney failure 

There is no black and white answer as to when to euthanize a cat in kidney failure. Generally, if a cat’s quality of life has declined significantly to the point that they have fewer good days than bad days, owners should consider putting them to sleep. 

In addition, cats with CKD who deteriorate suddenly may become very sick to the point that euthanasia is recommended. Your vet can guide you through this difficult decision in order to do what is best for your cat.

We answer, 'How long do cats live?' in this vet's guide.

FIV in cats, or feline immunodeficiency virus, is an infection specific to felines that causes immunosuppression, hence its name. 

Symptoms may not be evident for months or even years after exposure, so it is a good idea to have pet insurance on hand when you adopt a cat. 

Keep reading to learn more about what FIV is, how it’s diagnosed and managed, and its prognosis.

What is FIV in cats? 

FIV is a viral infection in cats that shares similarities with HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, in humans. Upon initial exposure, the virus travels to the lymph nodes, replicates in white blood cells, and then spreads to other lymph nodes.

 After this, the virus persists in low levels in the body and suppresses immune cells, leading to immunosuppression and leaving cats susceptible to other infections. Cats with FIV are also more likely to develop cancers and blood disorders.

FIV has been reported to be present in approximately 2.5-5% of healthy cats and at least 15% of sick cats in North America. Its prevalence increases with age, and it is more common in male cats.

How does FIV spread in cats? 

The main route of transmission of FIV is via saliva, usually through biting. Casual contact (i.e., grooming, sharing food bowls) has not been shown to be an efficient route of transmission. 

The virus can also be spread from infected mothers to their kittens, though this is less common. Unlike HIV in humans, FIV is not transmitted sexually.

Territorial cats have the highest risk of becoming infected with FIV due to their tendency to fight, with older, unneutered, outdoor male cats most frequently infected.

Symptoms of FIV in cats 

The clinical signs of FIV vary depending on the stage of infection and the individual cat. Early signs within the first few months of infection are often mild and easily missed, like fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, and enlarged lymph nodes. The virus then goes through an asymptomatic phase in which there are no obvious signs of illness.

Many symptoms of FIV do not appear until the disease has progressed and the cat is immunosuppressed. Symptoms of FIV are often related to secondary infections and include:

• Chronic or recurrent infections of the skin, eyes, bladder, and respiratory tract 
• Inflammation of the gums or mouth 
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea 
• Neurological signs, including behavioral changes and seizures 
• Uveitis, which can lead to glaucoma 
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst and urinations 
• Persistent fever 
• Enlarged lymph nodes 
• Cancerous growths 

Symptoms of FIV can be similar to those of feline leukemia virus, or FeLV, so diagnostic tests are required to distinguish between the two. 

Diagnosis of FIV in cats

FIV can be diagnosed using a blood test to detect antibodies to the virus or the virus itself. A quick blood test can be performed at your local veterinary clinic to screen for the disease. 

The test can yield false positives and false negatives, so depending on the result and your cat’s risk of infection, your vet may wish to repeat the test at a later date or send a blood sample away to the lab to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.

Treatment of FIV in cats 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for FIV. Many antiviral medications used to treat HIV are expensive or toxic to cats, so they are not frequently used. 

Zidovudine (AZT) has been reported to help with some symptoms of FIV, however, it does not prolong survival time and may cause severe side effects. Feline recombinant interferon omega has also been used in affected cats with some success.

Secondary infections should be treated early and aggressively in cats with FIV, and infected cats may take longer to respond to treatment and require prolonged or intermittent courses.

Tips for managing FIV in cats 

Several steps can be taken to manage FIV to prevent deterioration and potentially prolong a cat’s lifespan:

Have regular check-ups

Infected cats should have regular check-ups with their vet (at least every 6 months) to allow prompt identification of disease, infection, or progression. They should also have bloodwork and a urinalysis performed annually, and they should be kept up to date with regular flea and worm preventatives.

Neutering

Male cats should be neutered to minimize fighting over territory, and female cats should be spayed to prevent transmission to kittens.

Keep FIV cats indoors where possible

At home, cats with FIV should ideally be kept indoors in single-cat households to protect them from other infectious diseases and prevent transmission of the virus to other cats.

If this is not feasible, infected cats should be supervised while outside or given a “curfew,” as most transmission occurs overnight, and they should be housed in a small group of cats who do not fight.

Stressful situations should be avoided where possible.

Avoid raw diets

Lastly, raw diets and other uncooked foods should be avoided in cats with FIV, as these can harbor bacterial pathogens and parasites.

Can you vaccinate cats for FIV?

There is a vaccine for FIV, but it is currently not commercially available in North America. For this reason, prevention of the disease mainly relies on keeping cats indoors and testing all cats living within the same household.

Cats with FIV can benefit from other vaccinations to prevent infection, so long as they are healthy and given “killed” vaccines—live attenuated vaccines can cause disease in immunocompromised animals and should be avoided. Your vet can advise you on whether your cat should receive any vaccinations.

Life expectancy of cats with FIV 

The severity of FIV depends on the individual cat and the strain of the virus, so it is not possible to predict how long an infected cat will live. Studies have shown that cats with FIV live around 5 years from the time of diagnosis on average, but this can vary considerably. In general, the more severe the clinical signs are, the worse the prognosis is.

Luckily, many cats with FIV can go on to live fairly normal lives without significantly shortened lifespans if their condition is managed well. If your cat has been diagnosed with FIV, having a trusted vet involved in their care can help you to look after them and keep them as happy and healthy as possible.

Feline leukemia virus, or FeLV, can cause a variety of health issues in cats. Kittens and cats from multi-cat households are predisposed to infection and the incubation time can be several months, so taking out pet insurance as soon as you get a cat is always a good idea.  

Read on to learn more about FeLV, including what signs to look out for, what to do if your cat is diagnosed, and how to prevent infection.

• Stomatitis in cats: Vet’s guide to symptoms and treatment
• Ear infections in cats: Vet's guide to causes and treatment

What is feline leukemia virus? 

Feline leukemia virus is one of the most common infectious diseases in cats. Studies have found that it is present in about 3% of cats in North America and around 2% of cats in Europe. Luckily, the prevalence of FeLV has dropped significantly in recent years due to the development of effective vaccines and the implementation of testing procedures.

Only some cats exposed to FeLV will go on to develop infection, and approximately 30% of exposed cats will have persistent infection. In general, the younger a cat is at the time of exposure, the more likely they are to develop a persistent infection and experience lifelong symptoms. Feline leukemia virus can also lie latent in the body and be reactivated in times of stress.

Feline leukemia virus generally invades immune cells and the bone marrow, subsequently causing cancers like lymphoma and leukemia, anemia, and immunosuppression, which leaves affected cats susceptible to infections.

Is feline leukemia virus contagious? 

Yes—FeLV is contagious. It is most commonly transmitted via the saliva, usually through biting or grooming. The virus can also be excreted in the urine and feces, however, it does not survive for long in the environment, so this is a less common mode of transmission. Feline leukemia virus can also be passed down through breastmilk or during pregnancy.

Cats with the highest risk of becoming infected with FeLV include freely roaming outdoor cats, cats living with infected cats, and kittens of infected mothers. Kittens are more likely to develop infection and clinical disease following exposure to the virus, so it is recommended that female cats with confirmed or suspected FeLV are spayed to prevent transmission.

Symptoms of feline leukemia virus 

Symptoms of FeLV infection can range in severity, and they may not always be present. They can also overlap with those of other diseases and include:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy 
• Weight loss 
• Persistent fever 
• Unkempt coat 
• Enlarged lymph nodes 
• Behavioral changes 
• Pale mucous membranes, including the gums 
• Inflammation of the gums or mouth 
• Persistent diarrhea 
• Infections, such as those of the skin, respiratory tract, or bladder
• Eye conditions 
• Seizures 

In cats who develop persistent infection, symptoms can progressively deteriorate over weeks, months, or years. 

Diagnosis of feline leukemia virus 

Feline leukemia virus can be diagnosed or ruled out with a blood test. Depending on the results, your vet may wish to repeat the test in a few months or send another blood sample away to the lab to confirm the diagnosis.

Because of the range of diseases that can be associated with FeLV infection, all sick cats should ideally be tested for FeLV. In addition, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) recommends that all cats are screened for FeLV before being adopted or after exposure.

Treatment of feline leukemia virus 

Unfortunately, no specific treatments have been proven to be effective against FeLV. Treatment is supportive in nature to address FeLV-related disease. 

This includes antibiotics for bacterial infections, blood transfusions for anemia, and chemotherapy for lymphoma. Cats with FeLV often have a harder time clearing infections than healthy cats, so treatment may be required for longer periods of time. 

How to care for a cat with feline leukemia virus 

Cats with FeLV should be examined by their vet every 6 months, and all FeLV-related diseases should be treated promptly and aggressively. 

Infected cats should also be kept up to date with core vaccinations and regular flea and worm preventative treatments to keep them as healthy as possible. All cats with FeLV should be spayed or neutered, especially female cats who may pass the virus onto their offspring or be prone to miscarriage.

Cats diagnosed with FeLV should ideally be kept indoors to prevent the spread of infection to other cats and to keep them safe from other infectious diseases. In addition, it is best to avoid introducing new cats into the household if possible, both to keep the new cat safe and to prevent undue stress on your cat.

When to euthanize a cat with feline leukemia virus 

Although FeLV is often fatal, killing approximately 85% of cats with persistent infection within 3 years of diagnosis, infected cats can have a good quality of life for several years before they deteriorate. 

When a cat’s quality of life becomes compromised and they have more bad days than good days, it may be time to say goodbye. Your veterinarian can help you determine when the right time is, so staying in close contact with them is of utmost importance. 

How to stop your cat from getting feline leukemia virus 

Because of the potentially poor prognosis of FeLV infection, it is best to prevent exposure to the virus in the first place. This can be done by keeping cats indoors or only allowing them outside under your supervision. 

In households with several cats, testing and quarantining protocols should be considered for new cats. Negative and positive cats should be housed separately, and food bowls and litter trays should be cleaned regularly.

An FeLV vaccine is available that, while not 100% effective, can help prevent the development of infection upon exposure to the virus. The AAFP recommends that all cats receive an initial course of the vaccine as kittens and a booster 1 year later. 

After this point, cats should be considered on an individual basis, with cats at risk of exposure continuing to be vaccinated throughout their lifetime. Your vet can answer any questions you have regarding the FeLV vaccine and how often your cat should get it.

Diarrhea in cats is something that can occur quite often and if your cat suffers from it frequently, you’ve likely looked everywhere for solutions to this stinky problem.

While using the best cat litter can certainly make cleaning up cat poop a little easier, diarrhea isn’t something you want your cat to be experiencing on a regular basis if you can help it.

Diarrhea is a symptom, not a disease, but there are many common illnesses that can cause diarrhea in cats. To get to the bottom of the problem, you’ll first need to know what makes up normal poop behavior for cats, so you’ll be able to spot abnormal behaviors quickly.

Diarrhea in cats can be treated and it’s best to see your vet right away to get this problem taken care of quickly.

Causes of diarrhea in cats

Just like diarrhea in humans, diarrhea in cats can have hundreds of possible causes. To narrow down the list, your vet will perform tests such as blood work, diagnostic imaging (X-rays or ultrasound), and evaluation of fecal samples.

In some cases, we never find the underlying cause of a cat’s diarrhea, but we are able to address the diarrhea with empirical treatments. A few common causes of diarrhea in cats include:

• Parasites
• Bacterial or viral infections
• Dietary indiscretion
• Gastroenteritis
• Colitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Adverse food reaction
• Hyperthyroidism
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease and kidney failure
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Foreign body or bowel obstruction
• Lymphoma

This is by no means an exhaustive list. Because diarrhea is a symptom, and not a disease in and of itself, it is essential to see your vet to have the underlying cause of the diarrhea diagnosed and treated to ensure your cat remains in good health.

What is normal poop behavior for a cat?

To determine whether or not your cat has diarrhea – and how long the problem has been going on – it’s important to first understand what normal cat poop should look like.

To help you with this, vets use a fecal scoring chart like this chart available from Purina ProPlan Veterinary Diets. In this case, an ideal stool is a score 2: firm, segmented, and leaving behind little to no residue. While it’s OK if your cat’s stool varies with an occasional score of 3, routinely scoring 4 or higher is a sign that your cat is having diarrhea.

It is also important to note how often your cat defecates. Normal defecation frequency in a cat can vary depending on the amount of fiber in your cat’s diet, your cat’s hydration status, and how well your cat likes his litter box. A normal cat should defecate at least once a day.

Do you know how often to change cat litter? Cleaning your cat’s litter box daily is a great way to see how much your cat defecates in a typical day, so you’ll be able to spot any changes quickly. A cat with diarrhea may or may not defecate more than usual – this is important to note and tell your vet, as this can help him or her make a diagnosis.

Types of diarrhea in cats

Diarrhea in cats can be classified as being either acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea comes on suddenly, while diarrhea is considered to be chronic if it lasts for two weeks or more. Making note of the duration of your cat’s diarrhea will help your vet diagnose and treat your cat more effectively.

Diarrhea can also be further classified as large bowel or small bowel diarrhea. Small bowel diarrhea is watery to semi-formed, and usually does not come with any increase in frequency of defecation or any increased urgency to defecate.

Large bowel diarrhea, on the other hand, is semi-formed and gelatinous and the affected animal often defecates small volumes very frequently. Animals with large bowel diarrhea also feel an increased urgency to defecate, which can result in accidents outside the litter box.

Based on your cat’s history and symptoms, your vet will determine whether your cat has small bowel or large bowel diarrhea. This can help your vet make a diagnosis as to the cause of your cat’s diarrhea.

Will cat diarrhea go away on its own?

Sometimes diarrhea occurs because your cat ate one of the foods cats should never eat or because you’ve introduced something new into your cat’s diet. In these cases, diarrhea is usually transient and self-limiting, and resolves on its own within 24-48 hours.

Be sure to monitor your cat’s stool closely during this time and be on the lookout for any other signs of illness. If your cat’s diarrhea does not resolve within 48 hours, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, or other changes in health or behavior, don’t wait – see your vet right away.

Home care for cats with diarrhea

Although it may be tempting to try over the counter products or home remedies to stop your cat’s diarrhea, never give your cat anything that wasn’t prescribed by your vet. Many over the counter products are toxic to cats and should not be given under any circumstances.

Home remedies for diarrhea, such as feeding canned pumpkin, often do not work and may worsen diarrhea in some cases. In general, if your cat is having diarrhea for more than 48 hours it is best not to wait to seek veterinary care. Your cat’s diarrhea will resolve much more quickly with appropriate treatment as recommended by your vet.

When to visit your vet

If your cat’s diarrhea persists for more than 24-48 hours or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, or other changes in health or behavior, then it is time to see your vet.

Your vet will perform a full head-to-tail physical examination of your cat, and may recommend some additional testing such as blood work, diagnostic imaging (X-rays or ultrasound), and evaluation of a fecal sample based on your cat’s symptoms and history.

Your vet may also prescribe empirical medications to treat your cat’s diarrhea. These often include antibiotics to treat infection, probiotics to support GI health, anti-nausea or anti-inflammatory medications to soothe the GI tract, and a bland diet to help settle your cat’s stomach.

In moderate to severe cases of diarrhea, your cat may also need subcutaneous (SQ) or intravenous (IV) fluids to help rehydrate him and prevent dehydration from the ongoing diarrhea. Patients with severe cases of diarrhea may require hospitalization for more intensive care and treatment.

If you’re fed up of cleaning poop, check out our guide to the best automatic cat litter boxes. Or you might also be pondering: Do cats fart? How to deal with cat constipation or how to stop my cat pooping outside the litter box?

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Bethany Stone

You might be aware of pancreatitis in humans or dogs, but what about pancreatitis in cats? 

Pancreatitis can make cats poorly and it’s painful, but the early symptoms are sometimes vague. Therefore, if you think your cat is unwell, it's essential to get them checked over by a veterinarian so that treatment can be started early. 

So, what symptoms should you look out for that might mean your cat has pancreatitis? What causes pancreatitis in cats? And what can you or your veterinarian do to treat it? Keep reading to find out.

• Acid reflux in cats
• Upset stomach in cats: Vet's guide to causes and treatment
• Stomatitis in cats: Vet’s guide to symptoms and treatment

What is pancreatitis in cats?

The pancreas gland is within the abdomen, near the stomach. One of its functions is to release digestive enzymes called lipase and amylase into the duodenum (first part of the small intestine) to help digest fats and carbohydrates. 

As well as aiding digestion, the pancreas produces insulin which regulates blood sugar. If your cat has pancreatitis, it means that the pancreas is inflamed. 

When the pancreas is inflamed, the digestive enzymes are overproduced and leak out of the gland, causing more inflammation in the surrounding area. Cats are prone to a condition called triaditis, where the inflammation isn't just related to the pancreas gland itself but also affects the liver and small intestine.

Signs of pancreatitis in cats

Pancreatitis in cats sounds really painful, doesn't it? And it's certainly a painful condition in humans too. So, you might expect that your cat would show extreme symptoms. 

However, because cats are stoic and don't always show their pain outwardly, the signs can be more subtle than you might think. 

If your cat has pancreatitis, you might notice them acting lethargic or hiding away. This could signify that they are in pain and don't want to move around much.

 If they're particularly sore, they might sit in a hunched position with their legs tucked under them. It’s common for cats with pancreatitis to eat less or stop eating altogether, which could lead to some weight loss. 

Often, cats with pancreatitis will also vomit, which can cause dehydration, especially if they’re not drinking much. Some cats with pancreatitis deteriorate quite acutely. However, some will develop more chronic pancreatitis. 

If their pancreas is inflamed for a long time, it can affect its ability to produce insulin, leading to symptoms of diabetes. These symptoms include weight loss, your cat drinking a lot of water, and peeing more.

Causes of pancreatitis in cats

So, why would your cat develop this condition out of the blue? What triggers pancreatitis in cats?

 Sadly, the illness is poorly understood, but there are a few theories, including trauma to the gland, a tumor, or an infection. In dogs, a high-fat diet or one-off snack can trigger a bout of pancreatitis, and this may also be the case with cats, although it’s not confirmed. 

What about stress? Cats can develop other health conditions due to stress, including urinary tract disease and dermatitis, so can stress cause pancreatitis in cats? Although it's unlikely that stress would cause an initial bout of pancreatitis if your cat has chronic pancreatitis or is prone to flare-ups, stress could worsen it.

Treating pancreatitis in cats

Once your veterinarian has diagnosed your cat with pancreatitis, they will need to provide supportive care. 

Sadly, there is no particular treatment for pancreatitis. Still, some medications can help your cat feel better and aid their recovery. These medications are usually pain relief, anti-sickness medications, and sometimes antibiotics. If your cat isn’t eating or if they are dehydrated, they might also need to go on a fluid drip. 

So, what about how to treat pancreatitis in cats at home? It's important to realize that if your cat has pancreatitis, you need medication from a veterinarian. 

The condition is excruciating, and your poorly puss will need veterinary care. However, you should provide good nursing care at home alongside veterinary treatment. This includes tempting your cat to eat, regularly offering water, and giving your feline friend somewhere calm and comfy to relax and recover. 

If you’re wondering what is the best cat food for cats with pancreatitis, it's best to stick to a bland diet if they’ll eat it. White fish or boiled chicken are good options. Suppose your cat's not interested in eating, though. In that case, you might need to speak to your veterinarian about recovery diets and rehydration solutions.

Should you force-feed a cat with pancreatitis?

It's crucial not to force-feed your cat if they have pancreatitis. Cats can develop food aversion and negative associations with food very quickly. 

Therefore, forcing them to eat, even if it's something tasty, could cause them to associate eating with symptoms like nausea or pain. This can become a vicious cycle where they become less and less keen to eat even though their symptoms are improving.

Can pancreatitis cause kidney failure in cats?

Most cases of pancreatitis in cats do not lead to kidney failure. However, if the inflammatory reaction within the body is serious enough, it can lead to multi-organ failure. Equally, sometimes severe dehydration can also cause acute kidney failure.

Life expectancy of cats with pancreatitis

You’re probably wondering can a cat recover from severe pancreatitis and how long it takes for a cat to get over pancreatitis. 

The answer is yes; many cats recover from pancreatitis after supportive care. However, recovery time is variable, and progress can sometimes be slow. Sadly, it’s not uncommon for cats with chronic pancreatitis to have symptoms grumbling on and waxing and waning for months. 

More acute cases tend to be more serious, but if they recover, it tends to be quicker, over a week or two. Unfortunately, after one bout of pancreatitis, the condition often recurs.

When to euthanize a cat with pancreatitis

Whenever you’re faced with that tough, heart-wrenching decision of whether it's best to euthanize, you should consider three things: Is your cat in pain? How is their mobility? And are they eating? 

These three questions will help give you an idea of their quality of life. If your cat is struggling in more than one area and shows no significant improvement on a course of treatment, it might be time to discuss euthanasia with your veterinarian. 

How to prevent pancreatitis in cats

Because the cause of pancreatitis in cats isn’t fully understood, it’s impossible to prevent it altogether. Because of the potential link between fatty foods and pancreatitis, it would be a good idea to avoid giving rich or fatty treats or human foods and instead stick to balanced cat food. Other causes, like infections, tumors, and trauma, are impossible to control.

Summary

Pancreatitis in cats is an unpleasant and often severe condition. If your cat gets diagnosed with it, it can be a very worrying time since recovery can be unpredictable, and the cause is poorly understood. However, with time and the correct supportive treatment, many cats recover and live happy, healthy lives.

Unfortunately, cat constipation is pretty common. There are many possible causes, ranging from lifestyle factors to medical conditions. Constipation can be surprisingly hard to spot in cats since the symptoms can easily be confused with other issues.

Considering how important early treatment and management are, it is key that you know what to look out for. Without early treatment, constipation can lead to other problems and is more likely to recur. So, let’s take a look at everything you should know about constipation in cats.

What is cat constipation? 

Constipation means difficulty passing poo (faeces or stools), passing poo infrequently, or not passing poo at all.

In cat constipation, the faeces are held in the large intestine (the colon and rectum), where they build up. Since one of the major functions of the colon is to absorb water from the stools, and it continues to do so while the stool is held in the colon, the stools get drier and harder with time. This makes it even harder for them to pass.

When constipation becomes a chronic (long-term) problem, meaning the colon is being stretched over a period of time, this can lead to a condition called ‘megacolon’. With megacolon, the colon is stretched too large, making it unable to effectively push the faeces out.

Causes of cat constipation

There are lots of possible causes for cat constipation, ranging from factors in the environment to serious medical conditions. Possible causes include:

1. Environmental factors 

Cats are fussy creatures, so if they are used to pooing outside and need to be kept in, they may refuse to use a litter tray. Similarly, cats may take a dislike to a certain type of litter or tray, causing them to hold their stool while they wait for an alternative.

A dirty tray or having to share a litter tray can also be off-putting to our feline friends. Since water is continually drawn from the stool by the colon, the longer they wait, the drier and harder the stool becomes. Read our feature on how often to clean litter boxes if you aren’t sure.

Finding the best cat litter for your feline friend – and perhaps experimenting with different types of cat litter – will help them feel more comfortable when using the restroom.

2. Dehydration

Dehydration in cats causes the body to conserve as much water as possible. This means it re-absorbs as much water from the stools as possible, making them hard and dry. Because of this, constipation is cvommon in medical conditions such as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

3. A blocked colon

A blockage in the colon caused by a foreign body (i.e. the cat has eaten something it shouldn’t have), a polyp or a mass can cause constipation by physically blocking the stool from passing. A build-up of hairballs can have the same effect!

A colon can also become blocked if the pelvic canal (the internal area between the hip bones) becomes narrowed for any reason, such as following a trauma like a road traffic accident.

4. Pain

Anything that makes it painful to go to the toilet can cause a cat to become constipated. They realise that passing a stool will hurt, so are reluctant to go. Arthritis can make posturing to poo painful, for example.

5. Neurological conditions

If the nerves controlling the passing of faeces are damaged, for example in a ‘tail pull’ injury or after a road traffic accident, this can cause constipation (or on the flip side it can also cause incontinence).

6. Idiopathic megacolon

Megacolon isn’t always caused by chronic constipation and sometimes occurs as a condition with an unknown cause. The wall of the distended colon is weak and unable to push faeces out.

Now that we know what might cause cat constipation, let’s take a look at how to tell if your cat is constipated.

Signs of cat constipation

The symptoms will vary, and can mimic other problems, such as straining to wee. The main symptoms of constipation are:

• Straining to poo, often with signs of pain
• Passing stools less often
• Multiple trips to toilet outside, or to the litter tray, without passing anything
• Small, dry nuggets of cat poop
• Small amounts of liquid stool (which are easy to confuse with diarrhea, but are actually liquid stool managing to pass around the build-up of faeces).

You may also notice:

• Lethargy (lack of energy)
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting

Is cat constipation an emergency? 

This depends a little on the cause. Cats normally poo every day, so at least once every 24 hours. If your cat hasn’t passed stools in the past 48 hours (or more), then it’s time for an urgent trip to your vet! The best automatic cat litter boxes can actually track this for you, so are worth investigating if you’re worried – especially if you have multiple cats and can’t tell who’s been.

If your cat is making frequent trips to the litter tray but not passing anything, it’s really important to be sure they aren’t actually trying to wee. If you aren’t sure if your cat is weeing, then you should call your vet straight away. Straining to pass urine, without actually passing any, can be a sign of a blocked bladder, which is a life-threatening emergency.

How is cat constipation treated? 

The treatment will partly depend on the severity and the cause. In severe or chronic cases, a constipated cat will need to have fluid therapy and manual removal of the faeces under a general anaesthetic. For less severe cases there are several medical options, including:

• Enemas
• Laxatives
• Prokinetics (which stimulates the colon to contract, to squeeze the stools out)

In severe cases, surgery is sometimes needed to remove a large portion of the colon. This is usually a last resort.

Your vet may also advise you to continue treating cat constipation at home. This ongoing management may involve medication, alongside:

• Ensuring they drink enough water: using water fountains and feeding wet food, for example
• Regular grooming to help prevent furballs, especially in longhaired cats
• Litter tray attention: for example ensuring the tray is always clean, using the best cat litter box and a litter your cat likes and ensuring you have one litter tray per cat, plus one extra.

Your vet may also advise you to change your cat’s diet or recommend some home remedies for cat constipation.

What to feed a cat with constipation 

Cats with constipation usually need a high fibre diet, although this is not always the case. Due to the amount, and types, of fibre in some of the foods we might eat to naturally increase our fibre intake (such as pumpkin), these foods are not generally recommended for cats. The amount you would need to feed to make a difference is usually unrealistic – and remember that there are some human foods that are poisonous to cats. Instead, your vet will be able to recommend a high-fibre diet or a fibre food additive (like this one on Amazon). The best wet cat foods are also beneficial in constipation, to help your cat stay hydrated.

Got questions about kitten constipation? Read our expert vets’ advice

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

Can you get acid reflux in cats? The answer is yes! A form of acid reflux does exist called gastroesophageal reflux disease. 

Many people also suffer from acid reflux, often taking over the counter medications to ease the burning sensation caused by acid creeping up the oesophagus. 

But how can we tell if our furry friend is suffering from a similar complaint? Sadly, it can go unnoticed when it’s mild, only being recognised in more severe or chronic (ongoing) cases. 

Let’s explore this condition and what you should look out for.

• Cat throwing up white foam: A vet's guide to causes and treatment
• What to do if your cat is throwing up
• Do anti-vomit cat bowls work?

What is acid reflux in cats?

Acid reflux is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is a chronic, longstanding issue that occurs when acid flows up the oesophagus (food pipe) instead of remaining in the stomach. This irritates the lining of your cat’s oesophagus creating a condition called oesophagitis, which causes pain and difficulty swallowing.

In mild cases, it is like heartburn that many people experience at one time or another. But cats can’t tell us if they are feeling a burning sensation and so it often continues unchecked, getting more severe over time. Erosions can occur to the lining of the oesophagus, leading to severe pain, difficulty swallowing and even secondary infections.

Symptoms of acid reflux in cats

Symptoms of acid reflux in cats include:

• Vomiting
• Regurgitation (bringing up food undigested)
• Nausea (excessive lip licking and drooling)
• Signs of pain like crying and meowing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing
• Discharge from the nose or sneezing
• Reduced appetite
• Weight loss
• Fever

Causes of acid reflux in cats

Some of the underlying causes of gastroesophageal reflux and oesophagitis in cats can include:

• Anaesthesia, causing relaxation of the oesophageal sphincter muscles
• Drugs that relax the oesophageal sphincter (e.g. atropine and acepromazine)
• Conditions that cause vomiting can contribute of which there are many (eg. foreign bodies and inflammatory bowel conditions)
• Cancer
• Congenital issues (issues the animal is born with) such as a hiatal hernia

When to visit your vet

It is a good idea to visit your vet if your cat is showing any of the symptoms of acid reflux that we described previously. In many cases it may just be a simple stomach upset that is causing your cat’s problems that will respond to a short course of symptomatic treatment. 

If the signs have been longstanding though then your cat may need further investigation and more prolonged treatment. This is particularly the case if they are losing weight, showing signs of pain or if they are having difficulties swallowing.

Diagnosing acid reflux in cats

Your vet will begin by examining your cat looking at any weight changes, any signs of abdominal pain and checking their temperature. If your cat has mild symptoms, then your vet may suggest some medication and monitoring initially.

However, if there are signs of a long-standing issue then they may recommend further tests to try and get a definitive diagnosis and rule out other diseases. 

Blood samples may be taken initially to check your cat's organ function and get a picture of your cat’s overall health. Diagnostic imaging is then advised, with x-rays being a good starting point to get an overview of your cat’s abdomen.

Endoscopy is the tool of choice to explore the condition further, however. This involves a small camera being passed down the oesophagus to view what is going on. 

Damage to the oesophagus can be assessed as well as any underlying causes such as a foreign body or cancer issue. Fluoroscopy can also be useful (which is like a moving x-ray image) to see how the oesophagus performs when swallowing food.

How to treat acid reflux in cats

Mild cases may not require treatment and could resolve by themselves. However, if the condition is long-standing and your cat is showing symptoms then medical treatment is required. 

This usually involves medication to reduce gastric acidity (e.g. famotidine or omeprazole), drugs to improve the sphincter muscle tone at the bottom of the oesophagus and increase the rate that the stomach empties (e.g. metoclopramide or cisapride) and pain relief. If your cat has a hernia or other congenital condition then surgery may be advised.

Changes in diet may need to be made as well to help in the recovery from acid reflux. Your vet may recommend feeding soft and easy to digest food (low in fat and fibre). 

Your cat should be fed little and often throughout the day - the best anti-vomit bowls for cats can be useful in getting your moggy to slow down their eating speed at mealtimes.

How to prevent acid reflux in cats

It is hard to prevent your pet from developing acid reflux in the first place, as it is usually due to an underlying condition or as a side effect from medications. However, if you follow your vet’s advice you can help to control your cat’s acid reflux and reduce the associated oesophagitis.

Are there any natural remedies for acid reflux in cats?

A change in diet can be helpful when managing acid reflux in cats, but many will require prescription medications in addition to this. 

It is best to follow your vet’s advice and treatment plan rather than trialling natural or home remedies. At best you could waste your money, at worst you could cause your cat unnecessary discomfort by not treating them with appropriate medications.

Conclusion

If you think your cat is showing signs of acid reflux then you should get him checked out by your vet. If left untreated the condition could worsen over time leading to more serious damage to your cat’s oesophagus. The sooner you get your pet seen the sooner he can start feeling more comfortable again.

There are many reasons why you might find blood in your cat’s stool, including cancer, pancreatitis, worms, and constipation. As this could indicate a serious health condition, it’s always recommended to seek advice from your vet – no matter how much blood is present.

The color, consistency, and quantity can vary, and you might also notice other symptoms, such as your cat not eating, losing weight, or having accidents outside the litter box. However, sometimes this may be the only sign you notice, making it tricky to pinpoint the cause.

To help you understand what might be going on, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan has explained eight potential causes of blood in a cat’s stool, the symptoms to watch for, and how it can be treated. She’s a qualified vet with over 16 years of experience and has extensive knowledge of feline health issues like this. Here’s what you need to know.

Signs of blood in cat's stool

Blood in cat's stools can vary from the odd small red or pink streak to full-blown red, bloody stools. Less commonly, you may see something called melaena, which is digested blood. This causes feces to take on a black sticky, tar-like appearance due to a bleed higher up in the digestive tract (eg. a stomach ulcer or tumor).

Sometimes, blood in the stools can be associated with other signs. These may include:

• A change in stool consistency, either looser feces than normal or they might be harder and drier if your cat is constipated
• Increased mucous in the feces
• Feces with an increased unpleasant odor
• Passing stools outside of the litter tray or having accidents in the house (here’s how you can stop cats pooping outside the litter tray)
• Changes in appetite
• Cat throwing up
• Cat losing weight
• Abdominal discomfort

Causes of blood in cat's stool

Many things could cause your cat to have blood in his stools. This is why it is important to get your pet checked out by your vet so that they can help diagnose what the underlying issue might be.

Here is a list of possible reasons why your cat might have blood in his poo:

• A sudden change in diet: A new diet or brand could affect your cat’s stomach (here’s some expert advice on changing cat food)’
• Dietary indiscretion: Eating something he shouldn’t or going off food
• Infectious disease: Viruses, bacterial infections, and parasites (such as worms or protozoa) can cause loose stools which may be bloody
• A dietary sensitivity: If your cat has a sensitive stomach then certain ingredients may trigger inflammation leading to bloody, loose stools
• Inflammatory bowel disease: (IBD in cats) inflammation in the digestive tract
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of a small organ called the pancreas could lead to diarrhea in cats as well as other symptoms, such as lack of appetite or vomiting
• Underlying health issues: Thyroid problems or cancer could cause loose stools, with or without blood
• Constipation: Straining to pass stools could cause bleeding to occur. There are several reasons why your cat might have constipation, including dehydration, injury, muscle weakness, or a physical obstruction

What to do if you notice blood in your cat's stool

If you see blood in your cat’s stools then you should get your pet checked out by your vet. It could be something mild, such as eating something that has disagreed with them, but it could be something more sinister.

If your cat is vomiting, off his food, or showing signs of pain (such as a tense face, a hunched-up abdomen, or hissing at you), it’s especially important to get your pet seen quickly. The more promptly you seek help, the quicker and more effectively the problem can be dealt with.

How to treat bloody stools in cats

If your cat is only experiencing a mild self-limiting bout of tummy upset and is otherwise well, then you could try some bland food for a few days (such as cooked chicken or white fish, or a prescription-sensitive tummy food). Probiotic supplements can also be helpful to get things back on track too.

However, bloody stools usually require a trip to the vet. It’s important to make sure there is nothing serious going on and your vet is best placed to advise you on treatment options, as well as whether further investigation is warranted.

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment could involve a change in diet, anti-parasite products, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories. Conditions such as pancreatitis in cats may mean your cat needs to be hospitalized for supportive care and regular pain relief.

Sometimes tests may need to be performed to help work out what the best cause of action might be. Blood and fecal samples can be helpful, but sometimes diagnostic imaging like X-rays or endoscopy is required.

My cat is pooping blood but has no other symptoms, what does this mean?

Blood in the stools usually indicates inflammation somewhere in the digestive tract. This can occur due to several underlying conditions, which vary in severity. Sometimes, the only symptom might be blood in the stools, but other times it may go alongside other signs like mucus in the stools, vomiting, or changes in appetite.

Is blood in cat stool an emergency?

Blood in your cat’s stools is not usually an emergency, so you shouldn’t need to call your vet in the middle of the night unless your cat seems sick or is bleeding profusely. However, it is recommended that you get your cat seen promptly, especially if they are off-color. Call your vet practice and they will triage you over the phone.

If you see blood in your cat’s stools then it is best to get your pet checked over. There are a variety of underlying causes of bloody feces, some of which are mild but others are more serious. Make sure your cat is seen sooner rather than later to prevent any problems from getting worse.

Can worms cause blood in my cat’s stool?

Vet and writer Dr. Hannah Godfrey says: “Worms in a cat's intestinal tract (gut) can sometimes cause blood in their stools. While this is more common in kittens because they have immature digestive systems and much narrower intestines, it can occur in any cat. The presence of worms within the intestinal tract causes inflammation and diarrhea and can cause straining and worsen inflammation.

“Large numbers of roundworms can cause inflammation, but those that feed on blood from the intestinal wall, like hookworms, are more often associated with blood in the stool. As well as worms, certain other parasites, including the protozoa giardia and coccidia, invade the gut wall, making bleeding more likely with this type of parasite. It’s also important to remember that cats who have worms may not have blood in their stools, in fact, they may not show any symptoms at all.”

Whether you’re questioning, ‘Is my cat sick?’ or wondering why your cat is throwing up white foam, we’ve got you covered with all the answers you need.

Understanding more about cat and kitten vaccinations is vital. By knowing what shots your pet needs and by keeping to the correct schedule, you’re able to ensure your kitty is protected against a whole host of diseases. You can also help to prevent your cat from passing on infections to other animals, making it one of the most responsible things you will do.

Indeed, in much the same way that feeding your pet the best kitten food is going to help maintain health and wellbeing, vaccinations give cats a good start to their life. To that end, you should begin preparing for your kitten's first vet visit and it’s also a good idea to take out the best pet insurance for additional peace of mind. 

Here, expert vet Dr Hannah Godfrey explains more.

What vaccinations do kittens need?

Vaccinations protect against many diseases. At the very least, kittens should receive their core vaccinations which give cover against Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, and the Panleukopenia virus. 

Depending on where you live, rabies might also be considered a core vaccination. You may be offered non-core vaccinations, too, depending on your location and your kitty’s lifestyle. These include protection against Feline Leukaemia Virus, which affects the immune system and is always fatal, Chlamydophila, and Bordatella bronchiseptica. 

When should a kitten be vaccinated?

According to Dr Godfrey, kittens should have their first vaccination at around eight weeks old, protecting them against Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. This vaccination – given in a course of three injections – is repeated every four weeks until they are sixteen weeks old. 

“At 16 weeks old, they might also need their rabies vaccination, depending on the legislation and risks in your area,” Dr Godfrey adds. “If you live in an area where Feline Leukaemia Virus vaccination is recommended, your cat will be tested to check that they don’t have the disease first.”

What to expect at a vaccine appointment

In every case, a vaccination appointment will involve a full health check by the veterinarian. “At their first vaccine appointment, your veterinarian will discuss neutering, parasite control, and nutrition,” Dr Godfrey says. “They'll also answer any questions that you might have about caring for your new bundle of joy.”

Are kitten vaccinations stressful for your pet?

First of all, your kitten isn’t likely to know what’s about to happen but it’s natural for pet parents to worry. Veterinary staff are trained to put you and your furry friend at ease, however, and make the experience as pleasant as possible. 

To make things easier, you could buy some of the best kitten toys or best kitten treats as a distraction and provide a kind and reassuring face. If there is a problem and you’re worried about anxiety in cats, then consider some calming sprays and place some clothing that smells of you in their carrier.

Do indoor kittens need vaccinations?

Short answer? Yes. Dr Godfrey points out that each cat or kitten's lifestyle is evaluated to decide which disease they need to be protected from. “But it’s still a good idea to vaccinate your indoor kitten, at least with the core vaccines,” she adds. “Remember, even if your kitten never goes outside, you or other pets could bring germs in from outside. Equally, if your cat escapes, or you just decide to start letting them out, they should be protected.”

Do I need to vaccinate an adult cat?

Vaccinations don’t stop when kittens grow older and become fully adult cats. Core vaccinations will need to be repeated every year to ensure that your cat is fully protected. “The extra benefit of a yearly vaccination is that it gives your veterinarian a chance to do a full health check on your cat, ensuring that they're fit and well,” says Dr Godfrey. 

In general, you’ll be giving cats the FVRCP vaccine – a combination jab that treats Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Panleukopenia. In many countries, you may also need to give an annual rabies vaccination (a vaccination every second or third year is sufficient in other countries). To be sure what will apply to you, check how often do cats need rabies shots?

Kitten vaccinations schedule

Is it too late to vaccinate my cat?

It’s never too late to protect your cat by vaccinating them. Even adult cats can receive a course of vaccines to give them the immunity they need.

Potential side effects of vaccinations

Reactions to vaccinations are not common and millions of pets receive their vaccines every year with no problems. However, any drug or medication has the potential to cause side effects. The licensing authority monitors these side effects to ensure that the drug is safe to use. 

“Luckily, most vaccine reactions are mild, including tenderness at the injection site or feeling a little off-color for a day or two,” Dr Godfrey says. “Vomiting and diarrhea can also occur. Occasionally, more serious side effects can occur, so it's crucial to speak to your veterinarian if your pet is unwell and has recently had a vaccine.”

Cost of vaccinations and neutering

The cost of cat and kitten vaccinations and neutering will vary depending on where you live and which vet clinic you use. If you have concerns about whether you’ll be able to afford to care for your kitten, speak to your veterinary team.

Found this article informative? Then you may be interested to learn more. Discover five ways to prepare for a new cat when adopting a kitten.

IBD in cats is a condition that is frequently diagnosed by vets. IBD stands for Inflammatory Bowel Disease and is an ailment that causes marked inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines). 

As with people, IBD in cats can lead to marked digestive upset. You might be wondering if your own cat is suffering from this condition, however, it’s worth bearing in mind that multiple other issues can cause diarrhea and vomiting in cats. It’s always best to visit your vet for advice. Let’s explore IBD in more detail as well as what you can do if your pet is diagnosed.

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What is IBD in cats?

IBD stands for inflammatory bowel disease and is a chronic (ongoing) condition. Inflammatory cells invade the walls of the digestive system, causing thickening of the intestine and stomach which affects your cat’s ability to absorb nutrients from his food. 

The exact cause of IBD is unclear but genetics, diet, bacterial levels in the digestive tract and other environmental factors are thought to contribute to the condition. This is also why preventing IBD in cats in the first place is also tricky.

What are the symptoms of IBD?

IBD is most commonly found in middle-aged or older cats, though any age could potentially be affected. Depending on where in the digestive tract is most affected, common symptoms may include:

• Chronic (ongoing) diarrhoea
• Bloody stools
• Vomiting
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy

How is feline IBD diagnosed?

Your vet will start by examining your cat and will check their weight, feel their abdomen for any abnormalities as well as record their temperature. If they have concerns about your pet, then they may advise blood samples next. 

This will help to rule out other causes of digestive upset (such as hyperthyroidism), but may also give clues if there are elevations in circulating inflammatory cells. Faecal samples can be useful to rule out parasites and other infectious diseases. A strict dietary food trial may be recommended to rule out food allergies.

The next steps may include diagnostic imaging such as x-rays and ultrasound scans to look for thickening of the digestive tract. However definitive diagnosis can only be made with a biopsy, sending some tissue from the digestive tract to the lab for analysis. 

This can be done via an endoscopic exam (passing a small camera through your cat's mouth or rectum) or by abdominal surgery, the latter allows for other samples to be taken such as liver biopsies if other disease processes need to be ruled out.

Treating IBD in cats

Treatment depends on the degree of severity of your cat’s condition and different things are helpful for different cats. For most cats, a combination of eliminating any possible complicating parasites (through anti-parasitic treatments) and a change in diet can be helpful. 

Other cats may require medication such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatories (steroids). In some cases, probiotics may be beneficial and a supplement with B vitamins if there is a proven deficiency.

There is no cure for IBD in cats, treatments are aimed at improving and helping to control the signs of the disease. Your vet will guide you through how to care for a cat with IBD, as each case is individual.

What food is best for cats with IBD?

Your vet will be able to guide you on the diets they recommend for their IBD patients. The best diet for IBD tends to be formulated for sensitive stomachs which are low in fat and easy to digest or a hypoallergenic diet.

These are usually made using proteins your cat has never eaten before like duck, rabbit or venison. Wet or dry versions of many of these diets are usually available. It is important to make sure your cat sticks rigorously to his diet, as other foods may trigger digestive upset. Bear in mind that it can take several weeks on his new diet before symptoms improve.

What is the difference between IBS and IBD in cats? 

IBD stands for inflammatory bowel disease, whereas IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome. IBD is an autoimmune condition, whereas IBS is a form of stress-induced colitis, caused by the colon becoming overstimulated during times of stress and anxiety. IBD is controlled with nutritional therapy and medication, whereas IBS needs stress management. 

Can IBD in cats cause constipation?

Constipation is less typical than diarrhoea in cats suffering from IBD. Some cats may be seen straining excessively and not passing any stools, but this is usually due to inflammation causing an increased urgency to try and defecate. Speak to your vet if you suspect your cat is constipated.  

Can a cat recover from IBD?

Unfortunately, IBD is a chronic condition meaning that there is no cure. Any treatments are aimed at the long-term management of the illness. Many cats can experience an improvement in their symptoms with the correct diet and medication, however.

When to euthanize a cat with IBD

Sadly in some cases, your cat’s quality of life may start to become adversely affected, especially if his condition is not well managed. 

Though most cats with IBD have a good prognosis, life expectancy is variable, particularly as many are diagnosed in their later years, with or without other health conditions at the same time. If your cat’s symptoms cannot be controlled, then discuss this with your vet who will be able to counsel you on euthanasia as a potential option to end suffering.

Conclusion

IBD is a condition that is seen most commonly in middle-aged cats and older, causing diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss. While the condition cannot be cured it can usually be improved through diet and medication. Speak to your vet for advice if your cat is showing any symptoms of IBD.

Looking for more health-related content to help ensure your feline friend stays fit and well? Our guide to dehydration in cats reveals the most common reasons why cats stop drinking and what to do about it. 

If you’ve noticed that your cat is limping, you’re not alone. It has happened to many pet owners – one minute your cat is fine, the next, he’s got a limp. What happened? Sometimes we never know. But that doesn’t mean we can’t help.

If your cat is limping, there are steps you can take to ensure the problem doesn’t become serious. First, make sure you never give your cat any pain medication or over the counter medications without first talking to your veterinarian. Many pain medications are toxic to cats! 

To keep your cat safe, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before giving any medications. Next you’ll want to try to figure out what happened. Use these tips below to help you better understand limping in cats.

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Causes of limping in cats

Cat limping can be either acute – meaning it came on suddenly – or chronic – meaning it has been going on for a while. One of the first steps to determine the cause of your cat’s limping is to think about how long it has been going on. 

Limping that has come on suddenly may be due to a soft tissue injury, such as a sprain or strain, or a fracture of the leg. Chronic limping is often due to arthritis or an unhealed injury. 

To help determine the cause of limping in your cat, consider when the limping started, how long it has gone one, whether it has been consistent or intermittent, and whether you noticed any inciting incident, such as fall. Your veterinarian will need all of this information to help diagnose your cat. 

What to do if your cat is limping

If your cat’s limp lasts for more than 24 hours, your cat should see a veterinarian. Your veterinarian will ask you for a detailed history, including asking you about the potential causes of your cat’s limp as discussed above. Your veterinarian will then perform a full head to tail physical examination, including performing an orthopedic exam to assess your cat’s bones and joints. 

Your vet will assess your cat’s flexibility and range of motion and will look for any areas of pain or inflammation. Your vet may also recommend taking some radiographs (x-rays) to identify the cause of the limp. 

Radiographs can help identify potential causes such as fractures or arthritis in the joints. Once the underlying cause of your cat’s limp has been diagnosed, your veterinarian will be able to prescribe appropriate treatment to help get your cat feeling better.

Treating limping in cats

One of the most commonly used treatments for limping in cats is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) made for cats called Onsior. 

This drug helps alleviate pain and inflammation associated with soft tissue injuries and can help reduce your cat’s limping if the limp was caused by a strain or sprain. In many cases, a few days of medication and some strict rest – including no jumping or climbing – are all that’s needed for your cat to heal and return to normal.

Your veterinarian may also prescribe a pain medication called Gabapentin. This medication primarily treats neuropathic pain. It may also make your cat a little groggy, so don’t be surprised if he sleeps more than usual while taking it.

This medication may be prescribed to help alleviate pain and as a mild sedative to keep your cat quiet for a few days while he heals.

Treating a fracture

If your cat’s limping is due to a fracture, in addition to pain medications, your cat may require a bandage with a splint or even surgery to address the fracture. Your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of treatment based on the type and severity of the fracture. Your cat will need to stay very quiet for several weeks while the fracture heals, and will need to be kept indoors during this time.

Treating arthritis

If your cat’s limping in due to arthritis, there are several treatment modalities that may be used. Your cat will need to be on pain control, such as NSAIDs or Gabapentin, to help alleviate the pain. 

Other treatments such as joint supplements may also be used to slow the progression of the arthritis. If your cat is still in pain, treatment modalities such as acupuncture and physical therapy may be employed to help improve mobility and alleviate pain. Your veterinarian can prescribe additional treatments based on your cat’s needs.

How long does a cat limp take to heal? 

One of the biggest challenges of treating a limping cat is keeping your cat quiet and allowing the injured leg time to heal. This may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the type of injury. 

During the healing phase, your cat should not run, jump, or climb as this will put unnecessary strain on the injured leg.  If your cat goes outside, he should be kept indoors until the leg is fully healed. 

It can be difficult to keep a cat quiet, but providing plenty of mental stimulation such as puzzle toys, a window to look out of, a bird feeder or fish bowl to watch, or even cat TV shows can help keep your cat occupied without running around.

Conclusion

It can be hard to tell from appearance alone whether your cat’s limp is just a sprain or something more serious like a fracture. That’s why it’s best to see your veterinarian if the limping lasts for more than 24 hours. 

Do not attempt to medicate your cat at home, as many over the counter medications are toxic to cats. Always consult your veterinarian before providing any medication to your cat, and see your veterinarian immediately if your cat’s pain worsens.  

If you want to learn about weight loss for cats, then you’ve come to the right place. Overweight cats have more chances of developing health conditions, like diabetes and joint pain, so it’s important to know how to help them.

If it were up to our fur friends, they’d eat the best cat food all day long, and as pet parents, we know how hard it can be to say no to them. However, if your cat gets to an unhealthy weight, it can cause damaging effects on their health and wellbeing, so they’ll thank you for it in the long run!

Indoor cats might find it trickier to stay active, so it’s a good idea to play with them regularly with the best cat toys and try out some cat exercises.

If you’re concerned about your cat’s weight, we’ve called in vet Dr. Catherine Barnette to help. Below, she’s revealed how to get an obese cat to lose weight and the diet they should follow. We’ve also asked feline behaviorist Amanda Campion for her advice:

How can I help my obese cat lose weight?

Cats, like humans, maintain a healthy weight when they burn as many calories as they consume. When a cat consumes excess calories, they gain weight; over time, continued weight gain can lead to obesity. Therefore, obesity has two potential causes: excessive food intake or inadequate exercise. In many cats, obesity occurs because of a combination of these two factors.

Think about feral or stray cats: they spend much of their day chasing and hunting down small prey. This burns a lot of energy, and the payoff is small, hard to digest, food rewards. This balance between calorie intake and expenditures tends to keep feral cats on the lean side. Contrast this to a typical indoor house cat: most pet cats spend their days laying on the couch or a warm lap, periodically walking over to the food bowl to ingest large meals of highly-digestible cat food. When viewed through this lens, it’s not hard to see why obesity is so common in cats!

To help your cat lose weight, you will need a two-pronged approach: decrease your cat’s caloric intake, while simultaneously increasing your cat’s activity level. If you're feeling unsure of their requirements, read our feature that answers, 'How much should I feed my cat?'

Before starting a weight-loss program for your cat, visit your vet. Your vet will perform a thorough physical exam, and may also recommend laboratory tests. This workup can help rule out underlying conditions that might contribute to your cat’s excess weight, while also highlighting issues that need to be considered when changing your pet’s diet.

Your vet can also recommend a safe rate of weight loss in your cat. Overweight or obese cats who suddenly stop eating, or have their calories severely restricted, are prone to a condition known as hepatic lipidosis. When a cat suddenly stops obtaining adequate calories from food and shifts to mobilizing large amounts of fat, this fat can harm the liver and even lead to death. By following your vet’s guidelines, you can ensure that your cat loses weight in a healthy way that decreases the risk of hepatic lipidosis.

Diet for healthy weight loss in cats

To help your cat lose weight, you need to decrease your cat’s calorie consumption by putting them on a “diet.” Just like we humans adopt specific dietary changes to aid in weight loss, our cats will benefit from the same approach. There are two primary ways to do this, but using both strategies simultaneously can help maximize your chances of success.

First, consider transitioning your cat to a food that is less calorie-dense. Unless your cat is on a medical diet, prescribed by your vet, you can consider an over-the-counter weight loss cat food. These foods, available in both dry and canned formulations, are designed to be less calorie-dense than traditional adult cat food. Prescription weight-loss diets (which are even more calorie-restricted) are available through your vet. Weight loss diets are designed to fill your cat up, while providing fewer calories than a normal diet. This should mean your cat doesn’t go hungry on his weight-loss regime.

If you decide to change your cat’s food, talk to your veterinarian for help determining the best food for your cat. Also, consider these recommendations for best dry cat foods and best wet cat food.

Five tips to improve your cat’s diet can also help you take a more balanced view of your cat’s nutrition.

If you’re hesitant to change your cat’s food, you can also decrease the quantity of food that your cat eats on a daily basis. If your cat is currently fed free-choice (from a bowl that you keep full at all times), start by feeding your cat a measured quantity of food each day. Gradually decreasing your cat’s food intake (while avoiding any sudden, drastic changes) can help promote healthy weight loss.

Try putting their food into the best cat puzzle feeder or a snuffle mat. Amanda says: “Encourage your cat to engage in foraging gameplay rather than feeding from a bowl - this taps into the innate hunting mindset of the cat.”

To make them look forward to smaller mouse-sized meals, Amanda recommends offering toys before feeding as part of a play sequence.

How much should I feed my cat to lose weight?

The recommendations on the cat food label are often a good starting point. You should be aiming to feed for your cat’s ideal body weight rather than for his current body weight, and measuring cat’s food out accurately. If your cat is drastically over his optimum body weight though, talk to your vet to minimize the risk of hepatic lipidosis.

You can divide your cat’s recommended amount of food into multiple small meals per day or feed one large meal per day; either approach will work, as it will still be the same total amount of food given in a 24-hour period. There is evidence that once-daily feeding may be more effective at promoting weight loss in cats, though more studies are needed. Also, many vets agree that your cat is less likely to beg for food and treats between meals if they have multiple smaller meals a day.

Every cat has a different metabolism. While label recommendations are a good starting point, it may take some trial and error to find the food quantity that helps promote weight loss for your cat. Weigh your cat at the beginning of your weight loss program; if your cat has not lost any weight after several weeks, further decrease the food quantity by 10%.

Finally, ensure your cat is not receiving additional calories from treats or table food. If you give your cat treats, they should form a very small portion of the diet and your cat’s normal food intake will need to be decreased accordingly. Make sure all of your family is on board with this, and no one is breaking the rules.

Help your cat burn more energy

Indoor cats typically lead sedentary lives. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to increase your cat’s activity level.

Make a conscious effort to play with your cat. Every cat has different preferences, but the best interactive cat toys can all provide interactive play that encourages your cat to run, jump and be more active. Many cats will have short bursts of energy, rather than long sustained play sessions; this is normal and replicates their ancestors’ hunting behaviors.

Much of a wild cat's time is spent watching and stalking, with only quick bursts of running to catch prey. What you want to be doing is to keep encouraging more of these short bursts of activity in your pet, rather than getting disheartened by unrealistic expectations of your cat doing long periods of exercise.

Consider easy changes that can promote physical activity. If you have a two-story home, you may want to place your cat’s favorite bed or his food bowl, on the second story of the house to encourage him to climb the stairs more frequently. If you do move the food bowl, however, be sure that your cat finds it and is eating on a daily basis, to prevent hepatic lipidosis! Also, avoid making the litter box inaccessible, because this may encourage inappropriate elimination.

You can also make changes to your cat’s feeding routine, to mimic natural hunting behavior. Doc and Phoebe’s Indoor Hunting Feeder and other puzzle feeders require mental and physical engagement from your cat. By replacing passive meals at the food bowl with active feeding toys, you can increase your cat’s energy expenditures.

What’s wrong with being overweight?

Given the large number of overweight cats in our society, it’s easy to view feline obesity as a normal or natural condition. Unfortunately, that couldn’t be farther from the truth! Extra body weight predisposes your cat to several serious health problems, and can have negative effects on your cat’s overall quality of life. Talk to a veterinarian for help before embarking on your cat’s weight loss regime, to ensure that things are kept as safe as possible.

Being overweight is more than just a cosmetic issue. Here are just a few health conditions that are more common in overweight cats –

• Diabetes Mellitus – a condition in which the body does not respond normally to insulin, leading to symptoms like excessive thirst, excessive urination, and other internal organ dysfunction
• Osteoarthritis – a painful, degenerative condition which is associated with obesity, due to obesity’s increased pressure on the joints and inflammatory factors released from fatty tissue
• Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) – FLUTD can cause symptoms like discomfort urinating and toileting in inappropriate places, and is often seen more in overweight cats
• Cancer – as with people, being overweight can predispose cats to certain types of cancer
• Cardiovascular issues – extra weight can lead to more breathing difficulties and extra strain on the heart. Overweight animals may find exercise difficult and brachycephalic breeds (with narrow nostrils and other breathing abnormalities) will struggle the most
• Poor grooming – difficulty reaching all areas of the body can lead to matted, unkempt, and dirty fur

Concerned your fur friend is off their food and losing too much weight? Our vet shares the top things to check when your cat’s not eating and how you can stimulate their appetite. Wondering how to tell if your kitten is overweight? This vet's guide has the answer.

Is your cat throwing up white foam? If so, it’s understandable that you’re concerned. Vomiting can be common amongst some cats, particularly those who inhale their food or those who have long coats and produce a lot of fur balls. While one single episode of vomiting isn’t usually a cause for concern, frequent vomiting is something that needs checking.

Firstly, it’s important to note that there’s a difference between a cat throwing up food after eating and a cat throwing up white foamy-type vomit. Being sick after they’ve gobbled down a bowl of the best cat food is often a sign that a kitty has eaten too quickly, whereas vomiting white foam on an empty stomach indicates there’s something else going on.

You may be wondering what to do if your cat is throwing up white foam, so we turned to expert vet Dr. Catherine Barnette to get some answers. Below, she explains what causes cats to vomit white foam, when you should be concerned and how your vet will go about diagnosing the cause. Let’s take a look…

Why is my cat throwing up white foam?

White, foamy vomit is common when a cat vomits on an empty stomach. Your cat’s stomach contains a small amount of fluid and mucus between meals, and this fluid and mucus results in white, foamy vomit. Although white, foamy vomit isn’t unusual, it’s still important to get to the bottom of why your cat is vomiting in the first place.

There are many possible causes of vomiting in cats. Isolated episodes of vomiting do not always have an identifiable cause, while consistent or recurrent vomiting is more likely to reflect an underlying disease.

Potential causes of vomiting in cats include:

• Dietary indiscretion (eating “people food,” getting into the trash, etc.)
• Intestinal parasites (hookworms, roundworms, coccidia, etc.)
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Food allergy
• Gastrointestinal infection (bacterial or viral)
• Intestinal cancer
• Foreign body obstruction
• Hairball obstruction
• Drug reaction
• Pancreatitis in cats
• Heartworm disease
• Hyperthyroidism (overproduction of thyroid hormone)
• Kidney failure
• Liver disease

When should you be concerned about your cat throwing up white foam?

A single episode of vomiting isn’t necessarily serious, as long as your cat is eating well and acting otherwise normally. After a single, isolated episode of vomiting that is not accompanied by any other clinical signs, you can probably hold off on calling your vet. Monitor your cat closely, ensuring that there are no further episodes of vomiting or other signs of illness.

If your cat’s vomiting persists for longer than 24 hours, or if you notice other signs of illness (such as diarrhea in cats, lethargy, or your cat not eating), your feline friend needs to be evaluated by a vet.

There are many potential causes of vomiting in cats. Trying to figure out the cause of your cat’s vomiting by yourself, or through internet research, is likely to be an exercise in futility. A physical examination and laboratory tests are usually needed to determine the cause of a cat’s vomiting.

In addition to arriving at a diagnosis, your vet can treat potential complications of vomiting. Repeated vomiting can lead to dehydration in cats, requiring fluid therapy for rehydration. Additionally, vomiting cats can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) if they do not eat adequate amounts of food. Your vet can assess your cat’s hydration, determine whether fluid therapy is needed, and address your cat’s vomiting to prevent further fluid loss and reduce the risk of hepatic lipidosis.

Can I treat my cat’s vomiting at home?

There are no over-the-counter treatments that can be given at home to prevent or treat feline vomiting. Many human medications are toxic to cats, which can result in problems that are even worse than the vomiting that you are trying to treat. Resist the temptation to use home remedies. Instead, involve your vet and follow their recommendations.

Diagnosing the cause of vomiting in cats

Your vet will begin by performing a thorough physical examination of your cat. They will check your cat’s hydration status, listen to your cat’s heart and lungs, palpate your cat’s abdomen for any internal abnormalities (masses and intestinal obstructions can sometimes be found on abdominal palpation), and perform a complete nose-to-tail examination.

Based on these physical exam findings, your vet will recommend appropriate diagnostic testing for your cat. Initial testing may include blood tests, fecal parasite testing, urine testing, and/or abdominal radiographs (x-rays). If these screening tests do not provide a diagnosis, your vet may recommend more targeted testing.

Advanced testing for vomiting may include an abdominal ultrasound, a hypoallergenic diet trial (to rule out food allergies), or surgical biopsies of your cat’s intestines to look for cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.

Determining the cause of vomiting often requires multiple rounds of testing, but this is essential to determine the best treatment plan for your cat. You may be referred to a veterinary specialist for portions of this diagnostic workup, depending on what testing your cat needs.

Treating vomiting in cats

If your cat has an isolated episode of vomiting with no apparent underlying disease, your vet may administer an anti-nausea medication (in oral or injectable form) to settle your cat’s stomach. You may also be sent home with a short course of a bland, prescription diet, which is easily digestible and will provide rest for your cat’s gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, symptomatic care is all that is needed to get a cat over an upset stomach.

In more severe cases, involving ongoing or severe vomiting, your cat may require hospitalization. This will allow your vet to administer intravenous fluids and injectable medications, while closely monitoring your cat. Hospitalization can be used to rehydrate your cat and get vomiting under control; once your cat is stable, they can come home with you for ongoing outpatient care.

Work with your vet

If you witness your cat throwing up white foam, consider whether this is an isolated or recurrent issue. A single episode of vomiting can occur for any number of reasons, and may not always require veterinary care if your cat is otherwise acting normal.

However, repeated episodes of vomiting, or vomiting accompanied by other signs of illness, warrants a veterinary visit. Work with your vet to determine the cause of your cat’s vomiting, as well as the best treatment.

For more kitty-related health content, be sure to check out our guides to 'do anti-vomit cat bowls work?' and 'common allergies in cats'.