Your Cat Can’t Say It But Their Health Shows It

Cats have a reputation for being mysterious creatures. They purr, they play, they curl up quietly, and often hide their pain. What looks like a small behaviour change might actually point to something much bigger. As a cat parent, the key is awareness. Many feline illnesses can be prevented, managed, or treated if caught early.

Senior cats (7+ years) are prone to chronic conditions such as –

• Kidney disease
• Arthritis
• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes

Annual blood tests and age-appropriate diets help catch and manage these conditions early.

Urinary Issues –

More Common Than You Think

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is one of the leading health concerns in cats. Watch for these signs –

• Straining in the litter box
• Urinating outside the box
• Blood in urine

Urinary problems often overlap with UTIs (urinary tract infections), which are usually bacterial in nature. Left untreated, they can lead to painful blockages and emergencies.

Nutrition is such an important part of your feline’s health and wellness. Feed her premium cat food. Did you know brands like Purrfeto have shown up to 40% reduction in UTI risk? Also, if you notice any symptoms, consult your vet immediately.

Because Every Purr Needs Healthy Lungs

Respiratory problems are quite common in cats and can affect their quality of life. Viruses like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus can trigger upper respiratory infections. These are especially contagious in multi-cat households.

Symptoms include –

• Sneezing
• Runny nose or nasal discharge
• Difficulty breathing

Care Tips for Respiratory Red Flags

• Ensure hydration
• Use a humidifier or steam therapy
• Keep the infected cat isolated
• Provide a nutrient-rich diet to boost immunity

Don’t ignore eye infections, which often occur alongside respiratory issues. Look out for redness, swelling, or cloudy discharge from the eyes.

When Viruses Compromise Your Feline Friend’s Immunity

Two of the most common long-term conditions that pet parents need to know about are Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Both of these silently attack the immune system. Cats may appear healthy for months before showing symptoms.

Warning signs –

• Sudden weight loss
• Frequent infections
• Pale gums

Early diagnosis, proper care, and strong nutrition help cats live longer, healthier lives.

Rabies – A Fatal Yet Preventable Threat

Rabies in cats is rare but always fatal once symptoms appear. It spreads through bites and attacks the nervous system. Symptoms include –

• Sudden aggression
• Paralysis
• Excessive drooling

The good news? It’s completely preventable with vaccination. Just one rabies shot can save your cat’s life.

Gastrointestinal Issues – From Hairballs to Distemper

• Hairballs: Harmless most of the time, but excessive grooming can cause dangerous blockages. Purrfeto foods with psyllium husk help reduce hairball formation naturally.
• Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper): A highly contagious viral disease that targets rapidly dividing cells in the gut. The symptoms include vomiting, dehydration, and sudden collapse. Vaccination (especially for kittens) is the best way of prevention.

Hidden Trouble Beneath the Coat

• Ringworm: A fungal infection that spreads to humans and pets. The most common signs are bald patches, flaky skin, and constant scratching. Prevention techniques include maintaining proper hygiene, isolation, and early vet treatment.
• Fleas and Ticks: Cause itching, skin irritation, and can spread disease. Regular grooming, monthly treatments, and oral medications can help keep fleas and ticks at bay.

Cat Scratch Fever – What It Means for Humans?

Cats can carry Bartonella henselae, the bacterium behind Cat Scratch Fever. They may not show symptoms, but humans may develop mild fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes after a bite or scratch. While rare, it’s a reminder to handle scratches with care.

The Gift of Good Nutrition

From UTIs to hairballs, from immunity to aging, nutrition is the first line of defence. High-quality cat food helps prevent diseases, improves recovery, and supports lifelong vitality.

That’s where Purrfeto steps in:

• Real proteins & vital nutrients
• 40% UTI risk reduction
• Supports digestion & immunity
• Helps manage hairballs

With the right food, you’re not just feeding your cat, you’re protecting their health from the inside out.

Cats don’t always cry out when they’re sick. Sometimes it’s just a skipped meal, a change in toilet habits, or a tendency to hide more often. But those little signs matter.

• Vaccinate on time
• Keep up with daily grooming
• Feed smart with Purrfeto

Because in the end, caring for a cat isn’t just about love, it’s about giving them the health to enjoy that love for years to come.

(Dr. Akanksha Diwakar – Head – Marketing, Allana Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd.)