You’ve just adopted Ginger, a friendly little orange tabby cat who actually chose you at your local animal shelter. Because you want to keep sweet Ginger healthy, you’ve done some research on the most common feline medical conditions that can put her under the weather. Since Ginger also has a new patient appointment with your Lawrenceville veterinarian, he can also answer your cat health questions.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea’s symptoms pretty much explain themselves. If Ginger gets this nasty, messy ailment, she won’t be able to control her bowels, and will deposit foul-smelling liquid feces in inopportune places. Ginger’s diarrhea can stem from hairballs, rancid food, infections, allergies, liver disease, or cancer. Make sure Ginger keeps drinking fresh water so she doesn’t become dehydrated. If Ginger doesn’t have much of an appetite, or seems really tired, alert your vet. If Ginger’s feces are dark or bloody, if she has trouble pooping, or if the trots go on for more than one day, get Ginger some medical attention quickly.
Vomiting
Cats seem to be virtual vomiting machines, although the reasons for vomiting can differ considerably. Ginger might have scarfed down something inedible, and her body’s rebelling against the invader. Perhaps Ginger’s gotten a urinary tract infection, or could even be suffering from diabetes. Dehydration is a real risk here, so get Ginger to your vet so he can figure out why she’s vomiting and treat her quickly.
FLUTD
Feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, is the catchall name for several urinary diseases affecting both male and female cats. If Ginger’s afflicted, she might start peeing everywhere except her litter box. She might also have difficult or painful urination, and her urine might appear bloody. Because feline urinary problems can escalate very quickly, get Ginger some medical attention fast.
Tapeworms
Ginger can fall victim to tapeworms, a nasty internal parasite who takes up residence in her small intestine, and can grow to be two feet long. If Ginger’s affected, you’ll see little white worms or rice-like grains in her feces. She might also vomit or show noticeable weight loss. Since Ginger would get the tapeworms by swallowing an infected flea, make sure her flea problems are resolved before you work on the tapeworms.
Now that you know about some common feline medical problems, work with your Lawrenceville vet to keep Ginger healthy so she can enjoy the good life she deserves.
