Cat Health covers the common conditions, symptoms, and care tips every cat parent should know. From preventive care and home remedies to warning signs and when to call the vet, this section helps you understand your cat’s body and behavior so you can keep them feeling their best.
Many disease conditions can produce itching in cats. However, only a few disorders result in severe and/or prolonged itching. The primary symptoms of the “itchy pet” are scratching, licking, and/or biting of the skin. Early signs that might be noticed include wet hairs, reddened skin, and hair loss in the areas of biting and scratching. … Read more
For the best possible start, take your new cat to a vet as soon as you can for a comprehensive check-up. This first visit is the time to have the protective vaccinations that will help to keep your pet safe from most serious feline infections. You can also speak to the vet about neutering and … Read more
Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting older cats. It occurs when the thyroid glands produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Oriental breeds of cats, including Siamese, Balinese, Colorpoint Shorthair, Javanese, and Oriental Longhairs, seem to be genetically predisposed to developing hyperthyroidism. In this article we talk about Oriental Cats and Hyperthyroidism-Symptoms … Read more
Siamese cats are known for their unique colorations, vocal nature and affectionate personalities. However, these popular felines also tend to be more prone to certain health issues, especially respiratory problems. Understanding the common respiratory conditions affecting Siamese cats can help owners provide better care. In this article we talk about Siamese Cats and Respiratory Issues. … Read more
This dermatopathy of cats is characterized by the unexplained appearance of red to yellow-brown ulcerated lesions with associated hair loss occurring at various locations around the body. On the average, it tends to strike female cats that are under 6 years of age. When the raised, welldemarcated reddish ulcers appear on the lips of affected … Read more
Miliary dermatitisrefers to a specific way in which feline skin responds to inflammation and/or irritation. Such a skin reaction is characterized by the formation of tiny, seedlike crusts that frequent the head, neck, and tail regions of the body. In extensive cases, the entire body might be involved. Furthermore, the miliary reaction is quite itchy, … Read more
Folliculitis refers to an inflammatory skin condition in cats affecting the hair follicles. It causes small red bumps on the skin that may be itchy, painful, or seeping. Multiple factors can trigger feline folliculitis ranging from infections to allergies. Treating the underlying cause and following proper skin care helps clear up folliculitis flare-ups. This article … Read more
Metabolic bone diseases are characterized by a thinning and loss of bony mass, predisposing the bone to fractures and growth deformities. The most common metabolic bone disease seen in dogs and cats is hyperparathyroidism. This condition is characterized by a calcium deficiency within the body that leads to abnormal bone growth and bone resorption as … Read more
The decision as to whether to have a cat declawed is certainly a controversial one, yet it is one that needs to be made based on individual circumstances. For indoor cats that refuse to stick to their scratching post, declawing is certainly a better solution than drug therapy or worse yet, eviction from the home. … Read more
This type of diabetes should not be confused with diabetes mellitus, which involves abnormal glucose metabolism. Diabetes insipidus involves abnormal water metabolism, and it occurs when there is a lack of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH is normally produced by the hypothalamus of the brain, yet it exerts its effects on the kidneys, causing water … Read more