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  • How Can I Tell if My Cat is Sick?

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    Cats can be sneaky when they aren’t feeling well. They often hide and mask their symptoms until it is too late. For this reason, it is important to keep a close eye on your cat and his or her health.

    What are the symptoms that you should be watching out for?

    Vomiting. 

    Though many cats vomit occasionally, if your cat vomits regularly, it may be a sign of a bigger problem. If it continues, your cat may also become dehydrated.

    Diarrhea. 

    Just like vomiting, diarrhea can occur in occasional bouts. Your cat may have eaten something that didn’t agree with his or her stomach. That said, if the diarrhea persists, there may be something more complex at play.

    Issues with the litter box. 

    Once a cat has been housebroken, you shouldn’t have to worry about your cat not using the box, unless there is something wrong with your cat.

    Changes in weight. 

    Any time that your cat gains or loses weight quickly, you need to investigate. One pound on a cat would be several pounds on a person, so that it can be pretty significant.

    Increased drinking. 

    Most cat owners barely notice that their cat is drinking. They may refill the bowl every few days, without giving it a second thought. So, if you notice that you are refilling his or her water dish regularly, or you even notice your cat drinking, there is a good chance that your cat is drinking more than usual.

    Breathing issues. 

    Breathing problems should never be ignored. If your cat is struggling to catch his or her breath, you need to make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible or even visit the local emergency clinic.

    Eye problems. 

    You should also never wait if your cat is having trouble with their eyes. Depending on what is going on, if it is not treated, your cat may lose the ability to see out of that eye.

    Nasal discharge.

     Cats can get colds and allergies, just like people can. Like people, these diseases can be contagious to your other cats.

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    If your cat is dealing with any of the above symptoms, you will want to make an appointment with your regular veterinarian. However, they may be booked up for a few days or even weeks. You may be unsure whether to wait for an appointment. There are times when you should go to the local pet emergency room.

    How can you tell if you shouldn’t wait to see your veterinarian?

    Though some of the above can wait a few days or even weeks, there are times when you shouldn’t wait to get an appointment. If you are unable to get in within a day or two, you may want to visit the local emergency clinic. There, your cat can get the care that he or she needs.

    If you notice any of the following, your cat needs to be seen right away.

    • Severe pain, such as crying or aggression
    • Any bleeding
    • Gums that aren’t pink
    • Fever or chills
    • Exposed to anything poisonous to cats
    • Any trauma, such as being hit by a car or getting in a fight with another animal
    • Seizures
    • Trouble breathing
    • Unconscious

    What should you expect when you take your cat to the veterinarian?

    If your cat is sick, you may be unsure about what to expect.

    After you check in, you can talk to someone to explain exactly what is going on. 

    Even if you don’t think it is essential, you should tell them everything that you can think of. The receptionist or technician you speak with will likely ask you many questions to help the veterinarian determine what is going on with your cat.

    Your veterinarian will do a thorough examination. 

    At this point, your veterinarian will look your cat over from head to toe. He or she will also listen to his or her heart and lungs, as well as feel your cat’s abdomen.

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    At this point, your veterinarian may give you his or her recommendations.

    Though your veterinarian may have a good idea what is going on, he or she may recommend further testing to investigate what is wrong with your cat. He or she may recommend X-rays and blood work to figure out what is going on. He or she may also give you a few options to determine what you are comfortable doing.

    You will be able to decide what you are willing and able to do at that point. 

    You may want to pursue diagnostics, though you may also decline them. Some of these diagnostics can be done while you wait, while others may be sent out to a laboratory. These may take a few days to get the results.

    Whether you conduct further investigation or not, your veterinarian can provide medications that should help your cat. 

    Make sure that you give everything as labeled, for as long as you should. Follow up as recommended so that your cat has the best possible recovery.

    Because cats can be so sneaky, it is a good idea to keep an eye on your cat. They are perfect at hiding their illness until they are really sick. You should keep an eye out for vomiting, diarrhea, and willingness to eat. You also may notice that he or she isn’t using the litter box. Any time that you notice anything off, it is time to make an appointment for your cat to be seen.

    ***

    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • 5 Signs Your Cat May Be in Pain (and When to Call the Vet)

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    Cats are experts at pretending everything’s fine. 🐾 It’s one of their greatest survival instincts — and one of the biggest challenges for cat parents. By the time a cat shows obvious signs of pain, the problem may already be serious.

    As a certified veterinary technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve helped countless cat owners learn how to spot the subtle clues that something isn’t right.

    Here are five common signs your cat might be in pain, plus how to know when it’s time to call your vet.

    🐾 Changes in Behavior or Personality

    If your usually affectionate cat suddenly hides, avoids attention, or becomes irritable, it may be their way of saying something hurts.

    Cats in pain often withdraw from family life, hide under furniture, or stop greeting you at the door. Some even growl or hiss when touched.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Behavior changes are one of the first and most important clues. If your cat’s acting “off” — especially if it lasts more than a day or two — don’t assume they’re just moody. Pain or illness could be the cause.

    🐈 Changes in Grooming Habits

    A healthy cat spends hours each day grooming. If you notice your cat grooming less — or not at all — it could mean they’re uncomfortable or stiff. On the other hand, over-grooming one area can also signal pain, especially if the skin looks red or thin.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Over-grooming around the joints often points to arthritis pain, while excessive licking on the belly or sides may indicate discomfort in internal organs. Watch for bald patches or irritated skin.

    🩺 Changes in Appetite or Drinking

    If your cat stops eating, drinks excessively, or avoids food altogether, that’s a red flag. Pain in the mouth, teeth, or internal organs can make eating uncomfortable.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Even skipping one meal can be dangerous for cats, especially overweight ones — it can lead to a serious condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).

    If your cat refuses food or water for 24 hours or more, call your vet immediately.

    🐾 Changes in Movement or Posture

    Is your cat suddenly hesitating to jump, climb, or use the stairs? Do they walk stiffly or limp after resting? Cats in pain often change how they move.

    You might also notice them sleeping curled tightly, hunched over, or keeping their head lower than usual — these can be signs of discomfort.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Arthritis is more common in cats than most people realize, even in younger ones. If your cat’s movement changes, don’t dismiss it as “getting older.” A vet visit can make a world of difference.

    🐕‍🦺 Changes in Litter Box Habits

    Painful cats often associate the litter box with discomfort — especially if they have arthritis, urinary issues, or constipation. They may start going just outside the box, using another surface, or straining to urinate or defecate.

    💡 Vet Tech Tip:
     Any straining in the litter box — especially if no urine comes out — is an emergency. Male cats can develop life-threatening urinary blockages that require immediate vet care.

    🐾 When to Call the Vet

    It’s time to call your veterinarian if your cat:

    • Hides for more than a day or two
    • Refuses food or water
    • Shows sudden aggression or fear of touch
    • Has difficulty jumping or walking
    • Strains or cries in the litter box

    If your gut says something’s wrong — trust it. Cats rarely “act sick” unless they truly are.

    🐱 Final Thoughts

    Cats are subtle creatures, and their way of showing pain is easy to miss. But once you know what to watch for, you can catch issues early and help your feline friend stay comfortable and healthy.

    When in doubt, call your vet — it’s always better to check than to wait and worry. Your cat’s health and happiness are worth it. 💙🐾

    ***

    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.