Detecting illness in your cat

Detecting illness in your cat Our furry angels can’t tell us where or when they hurt. In fact, many animals will try to mask pain or illness. That’s why it is extremely important that you get to know your cat’s regular habits and behaviours. Any deviation from his or her normal behaviour could indicate a problem with his or her health. Some symptoms and behaviours are obvious: diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, sneezing, running nose or eyes, and trouble using the litter box. There are other, more subtle, physical and behavioural signs that might indicate a trip to the vet is in order. Take note if your cat does any of the following:

• Misses more than one meal.
• Shows a sudden change in eating habits.
• Stops using the litter box.
• Develops puffiness or a lump under the skin.
• Hides for more than a day.
• Becomes suddenly short-tempered or intolerant of attention.
• Shakes his head frequently.
• Changes his routine or loses interest in his favourite games.
• Stops grooming.
(Reprinted with permission from The Humane Society of the United States, www.hsus.org )