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Signs of a Healthy Cat (and Possible Symptoms of Cat Illness)

Cats are special creatures: sometimes easy to understand but often mysterious. And as their caregivers, it's up to us to know how they're feeling to ensure that they live happy, healthy lives. Learn some typical signs of a healthy cat, as well as possible symptoms of cat illness.

Signs of a healthy cat

Healthy cats generally:

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We've seen tremendous momentum and success so far, and we are so close to achieving no-kill around the entire country. Knowing where each shelter and community stands not only helps determine the best way to move forward, but it also helps track the progress we’re making together.
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  • Are playful even well into old age
  • Are well groomed with a soft, silky coat
  • Have bright, wide-open eyes with no discharge
  • Have good litter box habits, firm stool, and plenty of urination
  • Eat their food with gusto and drink plenty of water
  • Have a temperature hovering around 101 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Have pink gums and teeth free of tartar

Symptoms of cat illness

Any change in your cat’s normal routine should be noted and attended to right away with a visit to your veterinarian. Some specific symptoms of cat illness to watch out for include:

  • Changes in appetite or water consumption (either increase or decrease)
  • Behavioral problems, such as sudden aggression or lethargy
  • Constipation, diarrhea, or urination problems
  • Coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
  • Hair loss or itching
  • Lameness
  • Lumps, bumps, or scabs
  • Sneezing or nasal or eye discharge
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Weight loss

If you notice any of these signs, then a visit to your veterinarian is in order. Some of these symptoms might be more serious than others, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Remember, your cat is your loving companion and deserves the best care you can provide.

Issues:
Cats Health Pet Health
Tags:
Cats Kittens Pet Diseases
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About Best Friends Animal Society

Best Friends is working to end the killing of dogs and cats in U.S. shelters in part by getting more pets out of shelters and into loving homes.

We’ve come a long way since the first known city reached no-kill in 1994, and now we’re closer than ever to making the entire country no-kill. Today, roughly 2,500 shelters are no-kill throughout the U.S. — and 700 more are just 100 pets or fewer away from reaching that milestone.

Best Friends is committed to working with passionate people like you to save homeless pets through adoption, volunteering, fostering, and advocacy. In addition to our lifesaving centers around the U.S, we also founded and run the nation's largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals.

Working together, we can save homeless pets in our communities and secure a better future for our best friends. Together, we will bring the whole country to no-kill.