Cats are experts at hiding signs of diseases, making it important for owners to recognize common health issues early. Our best friends can experience diseases that can sometimes not clear until too late. To help you with the subtle signs, here are the 15 common cat diseases.

1. Feline Upper Respiratory Infections

Feline upper respiratory infections are illnesses that affect the nose, throat, and sinuses, similar to a human cold. These infections are common, especially in shelters or multi-cat households. Stress, overcrowding, and poor ventilation can also increase the risk.

Viruses like feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus typically cause URIs. Bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydia felis, can also lead to these infections. Here are the common symptoms of feline upper respiratory infections:

• Sneezing and nasal discharge

• Watery eyes or conjunctivitis

• Coughing or labored breathing

• Fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite

Treatment includes supportive care, such as ensuring hydration and providing soft, strong-smelling foods to stimulate appetite. We may prescribe steam therapy or antibiotics depending on the cause. Vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent your cat from getting the disease.

2. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease 

One common group of cat diseases is feline lower urinary tract disease or FLUTD. These diseases are known to affect the bladder and urethra. It is a common health issue in cats and can range from slight discomfort to life-threatening blockages. UTI is one of the most common types.

FLUTD can come from bladder stones, urinary crystals, bacterial infections, stress, or urethral obstructions. Diet, dehydration, and obesity are contributing factors. Male cats have a higher risk because of narrower urethras. The common symptoms include:

• Difficulty urinating or frequent trips to the litter box

• Changes in urine quantity

• Blood in urine

• Vocalizing while urinating

• Excessive licking of the genital area

• Lethargy or vomiting in severe cases

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Dietary changes, medications, and surgery will be the most typical methods for treatment. To prevent FLUTD, provide clean water, encourage regular hydration, and feed a balanced diet tailored to your cat’s needs. Reducing stress in their environment can also play a crucial role in prevention.

3. Feline Diabetes Mellitus

Feline diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder where a cat’s body cannot properly produce or use insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. This condition is increasingly common in cats with significant weight.

Diabetes in cats is often related to obesity, but other factors like genetics, pancreatitis, or prolonged use of steroids can also contribute. The condition occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the body doesn’t respond to insulin.

• Increased thirst 

• Frequent urination

• Weight loss despite an increased appetite

• Lethargy and weakness

• Poor coat condition or dandruff

Managing feline diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical treatment. Insulin therapy, dietary management, weight management, and constant monitoring are some methods used to treat and manage diabetes in cats.

4. Feline Leukemia Virus

The feline leukemia virus weakens a cat’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to other conditions, infections, and diseases. FeLV is one of the leading causes of illness and death in cats, especially in young or unvaccinated felines. FeLV spreads through close contact with infected cats, often via saliva, nasal secretions, urine, feces, or milk. Activities like grooming, sharing food bowls, or fighting can transmit the virus.

• Weight loss and poor appetite

• Persistent fever

• Lethargy and weakness

• Pale gums

• Diarrhea

• Swollen lymph nodes

There is no designated cure for FeLV, but supportive care can improve quality of life. The treatment process will include supportive care, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and blood transfusions. FeLV vaccines can reduce the risk of infection, especially in kittens and outdoor cats.

5. Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a condition that progresses over time. As this progresses, kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste from the blood. CKD is one of the most common diseases in older cats. If left untreated, it’s going to cause more problems for the affected cat.

CKD can result from various factors, including aging, genetic predisposition, kidney infections, or exposure to toxins like antifreeze or certain medications. Common signs include:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Loss of appetite and weight loss

• Vomiting and diarrhea

• Poor coat condition

• Lethargy and weakness

While CKD is not curable, treatment focuses on slowing its progression and managing symptoms. ACE inhibitors, immunosuppressive drugs, medications for blood pressure, and pain medications will be used. Dietary management and hydration support are also part of the treatment process. 

6. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the cat’s thyroid gland creates excessive thyroid hormones, speeding up its metabolism. It is one of the most common endocrine disorders in older cats and can lead to significant health issues if untreated. Hyperthyroidism is typically caused by benign tumors on the thyroid gland. The exact cause of these tumors is not fully understood but may involve environmental or dietary factors.

• Weight loss

• Increased thirst and urination

• Hyperactivity or restlessness

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Poor coat condition

Several options are available for managing hyperthyroidism. Medication, radioactive iodine therapy, surgery, and dietary adjustments are the common treatment options used to treat hyperthyroidism in cats.

7. Dental Disease

Dental disease is one of the most overlooked health issues in cats, affecting their teeth, gums, and overall oral health. Conditions like periodontal disease, gingivitis, and tooth resorption can cause pain, infection, and even systemic health problems if untreated.

Dental disease is generally caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. Poor dental hygiene and lack of professional cleaning can make things worse. Here are some of the common symptoms of dental disease in cats:

• Bad breath

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Drooling or pawing at the mouth

• Loose or missing teeth

• Visible tartar on the teeth

To help treat dental disease, cats will need professional cleaning to properly remove plaque and tartar buildup. In some cases, tooth extractions will be done for severely damaged or infected teeth. From this point, regular cleanings will be needed, even at home. 

8. Cancer

Cancer in cats is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can affect almost any part of the body. It’s a leading cause of death in older cats but can sometimes be managed or treated if caught early. Common types of cancer include lymphomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and mast cell tumors. While the cause of cancer in cats is not well-known, some factors can increase the risk. These include:

• Genetic predisposition

• Harmful chemicals 

• Viruses such as FeLV

The common signs include:

• Unexplained lumps or swelling

• Weight loss or loss of appetite

• Difficulty eating, drinking, or breathing based on the tumor’s location

• Persistent sores or wounds that don’t heal

• Lethargy or behavioral changes

The main treatment method will involve mass removal surgery. In some cases, chemotherapy and radiation therapy will be used to destroy cancer cells.

9. High-Rise Syndrome

High-rise syndrome refers to a specific set of injuries sustained by cats that fall from significant heights, often from windows, balconies, or roofs. Despite their agility, cats can suffer severe trauma from falls, especially if the height is considerable. High-rise syndrome typically occurs when:

• Windows or balconies are left open and unsecured.

• Cats become distracted by birds, insects, or other outdoor sights.

• They lose balance while perched on a narrow ledge or railing.

The common symptoms mostly involve physical injuries. These are

• Broken bones or fractures 

• Internal injuries, such as lung damage or ruptured organs

• Difficulty breathing

• Bleeding or visible wounds

• Lethargy or signs of shock

Treating high-rise syndrome in cats requires immediate veterinary care. X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans may be used to help reveal the full extent of the cat’s condition. Surgery, pain medications, and supportive care will be done as part of the treatment process.

10. Ringworm

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection common in areas with multiple cats. The disease affects a cat’s skin, hair, and nails. Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm but by dermatophyte fungi. It’s common in cats, especially kittens, and can spread to other animals and humans.

The disease is spread when its fungal spores are spread around the environment or passed from infected animals. Cats with weak immune systems or those in crowded, damp, or unsanitary conditions are more vulnerable. Signs include:

• Circular patches of hair loss

• Bald spots or broken fur

• Itching or excessive grooming

• Raised, crusty lesions on the skin

Treating a ringworm infestation in cats is fairly easy. Topical and oral antifungals will be used. This can consist of creams, ointments, medicated shampoos, and oral drugs. For prevention, it’s important to regularly clean the cat’s bedding, toys, and pillows

11. Feline Asthma

Feline asthma is a chronic respiratory condition caused by inflammation and narrowing of the cat’s airways, leading to difficulty breathing. It is similar to asthma in humans and is one of the most common respiratory disorders in cats. Generally, cat asthma can be caused by age, genetics, or allergens and irritants in the environment. Common triggers include:

• Pollen, dust, or mold

• Cigarette smoke or strong fragrances

• Stress or infections that exacerbate inflammation

• Perfumes and aerosols.

The common symptoms of cat asthma are: 

• Wheezing or coughing 

• Difficulty breathing or open-mouth breathing

• Rapid or labored breathing

• Lethargy after physical activity

For the treatment, veterinarians focus on medications such as corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation. Inhaled corticosteroids are usually the preferred type. Additionally, bronchodilators help relax the cat’s airways, and they can be administered orally or with an inhaler. 

12. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ that produces essential digestive enzymes and insulin. This condition can range from mild to life-threatening and often occurs in conjunction with other diseases. This condition happens when the enzymes activate prematurely in the pancreas, causing inflammation. The main cause of pancreatitis in cats is often unclear. Some potential causes include diabetes or IBD. Symptoms include:

• Vomiting and nausea

• Abdominal 

• Lethargy and weakness

• Loss of appetite

• Dehydration

Treatment for pancreatitis will include supportive care treatments such as fluid therapy, pain relief medications, antibiotics, and other supportive medications. Dietary changes will also be considered to help your cat recover.

13. Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection in cats caused by Toxoplasma gondii. While many cats infected with the parasite show no symptoms, it can cause severe illness in kittens, immunocompromised cats, or those exposed to high parasite loads. It can also spread to humans, making it a zoonotic disease of concern.

Cats contract toxoplasmosis by ingesting infected prey, raw or undercooked meat, or contaminated water. The parasite completes its life cycle in the feline intestine, after which infectious oocysts are shed in the cat’s feces.

• Fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite

• Diarrhea or vomiting

• Coughing and difficulty breathing

• Seizures in severe cases

• Eye inflammation or discharge

The main treatment option will be the use of medications such as antibiotics. Along with antibiotics, supportive care treatments such as hydration and nutrition will be administered. To prevent any reoccurrence, it’s important to keep your cat’s litterbox clean and regularly sanitized.

14. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Feline immunodeficiency virus is a slow-acting virus that weakens a cat’s immune system, similar to HIV in humans. While not immediately life-threatening, FIV can weaken a cat’s ability to fight infections over time. This means that infected cats will become more vulnerable to diseases from pathogens.

FIV is primarily transmitted through bite wounds, making outdoor cats or those in fights with infected cats more susceptible. FIV often progresses slowly, and symptoms may not appear for years. Some of the common signs include:

• Enlarged lymph nodes

• Weight loss

• Poor coat condition

• Fever and lethargy

• Recurrent fever

There is no absolute cure for FIV. Cats who are affected will be treated with proper care and management techniques. The main option will be supportive care, consisting of dietary changes and supplementary medications.

15. Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Feline infectious peritonitis is more on the rarer side, but it’s often a fatal disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. While most cats exposed to the virus remain healthy, in some cases, the virus mutates and triggers FIP, which can affect multiple organs.

FIP develops when the otherwise harmless feline enteric coronavirus mutates within the cat’s body. This is more likely to happen in cats with compromised immune systems or those living in crowded environments like shelters. It can have two forms:

• Wet (Effusive) Form

Wet feline infectious peritonitis is characterized by fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest. This leads to bloating and breathing problems.

• Dry (Non-Effusive) Form

In this type, FIP is much slower but leads to the formation of granulomas. Inflammation in organs such as the eyes, brain, or kidneys causes symptoms like seizures, jaundice, or weight loss. 

Supportive care methods such as fluid therapy and medications will be used to treat feline infectious peritonitis. In recent advancements, remdesivir and GS-441524 have been good potential treatments.

Conclusion

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to our cats’ health. Be sure to have regular vet checkups, keep a clean home, and provide a healthy diet to help meet your cat’s needs and provide a happy and healthy life.