If you know your cat well and are attentive to his habits and needs, you know that minor changes in his routine are signs that should not be underestimated.
In fact, it is good to keep in mind that any change in his behaviour can be an alarm bell for common diseases.
Cats tend to be shy and hide their discomfort so as not to risk looking vulnerable (who doesn’t?). They try to suppress their discomfort so much that the resulting stress manifests itself in various pathologies.
Sometimes, it’s really a challenge to notice these signs.
But what are the 7 signs of cat behaviour that should not be underestimated?
Changes in the cat’s normal behaviour and daily routine are the first signs that something is wrong.
Sometimes both physical and behavioural issues can arise. And one can derive from the other and vice versa, such as idiopathic cystitis.
Other times, due to chronic pain, the cat can become more aggressive when touched, or even shy towards its owners.
Let’s see together what are the signals and changes in behaviour that should not be underestimated in cats.
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Polydipsia
Polydipsia is the increase in fluid intake, so the cat drinks more than usual.
The causes of increased thirst in cats can be many and varied.
When we notice this behaviour, let’s consult with the veterinarian to ascertain the absence of pathologies.
Polydipsia is often associated with a consequent increase in the number of urinations, (polyuria) another sign that should not be underestimated.
The increase in thirst in cats can be caused by diseases of the excretory system, but also diabetes, intoxication and alterations of the endocrine metabolism.
A veterinary visit is, therefore, necessary to investigate ongoing pathologies through analyzes, identify altered blood values and check liver and kidney functions.
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Polyuria
As already mentioned, polyuria and polydipsia are two related symptoms because they increase accordingly. For this reason, polyuria can be divided into:
Primary polyuria: when it is the amount of urine produced that causes an increase in thirst, due to greater loss of water.
Secondary polydipsia: when the thirst is increased and therefore, the greater intake of water, makes you urinate more.
Polyuria is one of the signs that should not be underestimated.
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Dysuria
Dysuria is referred to as difficulty urinating. The cat may also have anuria, that is the absence of urinating.
It is good to observe the habits of your cat and if you notice any alterations, make sure of its health with a veterinary check-up.
For example, the cat may suddenly spend much more time in the litter box, it may go there very often within an hour or urinate outside the litter box. Another sign of discomfort can be noticed when the cat begins to neglect its hygiene.
These are symptoms of discomfort that should be reported to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Cats are very sensitive and are subject to various pathologies of the urinary tract due to: bacterial infections, environmental stress, trauma, stones.
If you suspect your cat may have dysuria or anuria, take him to the vet.
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Inappropriate urination
Any changes in your cat’s behaviour should be monitored. If a cat has always been used to the litter box, unexpectedly begins urinating outside it or in other places in the house, it is sending us a signal of discomfort.
The causes can be multiple and it is up to the veterinarian to carry out the necessary tests to identify the problem.
This behaviour may be due to behavioural problems, stress caused by changes in the cat’s life (introduction of new animals, roommates, change of house), but also urinary tract and excretory system diseases.
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Tenesmus
Tenesmus is the difficulty in defecating. This symptom is common in cats and may indicate the presence of gastrointestinal disease. It is more common in adult and senile male cats.
The signs of tenesmus are: very hard and dry stools, covered with mucus and sometimes blood, and frequent attempts to defecate with little or no stool production.
Tenesmus can cause constipation, and subsequently, lack of appetite, vomiting, and other signs of malaise.
The causes of tenesmus can be many, including dehydration, environmental stress, obstruction of the digestive canal, inflammatory and parasitic diseases.
Well yes. Keep an eye on your cat even during visits to the toilet or and tell the veterinarian if your cat has difficulty defecating.
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Lack of appetite
Changes in the cat’s eating habits are never to be underestimated.
A drastic decrease in appetite can signal serious health problems.
But there are some exceptions.
In summer, when it is very hot, cats tend to reduce the number of meals a lot. On the other hand, we too tend to eat less and lighter in the summer months.
This behaviour can be considered normal if the cat shows no other symptoms of discomfort.
A tip is to always leave fresh water available and encourage the cat to eat wet food so that even if they eat less, they do not become dehydrated due to the summer heat.
If, on the other hand, you notice other changes in your cat’s behaviour, it is important to note them and consult your vet.
Many diseases can be related to a lack of appetite. Among this: infectious and parasitic diseases, problems and diseases of the gastrointestinal system, problems with the teeth and chewing …
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Weight loss
Weight loss in a cat is a symptom of the hidden presence of an environmental and physical illness or discomfort that should not be overlooked.
It is essential to keep an eye on your pet’s weight. Older cats tend to lose weight as they age. With a visit to the vet, the causality of weight loss can be ascertained.
However, if your cat has lost weight quickly and visibly, consult your vet.
The most common cause of weight loss is stress, also due to an illness caused by a disease. Weight loss is often the first symptom found in a cat and can herald various pathologies.
If you notice any changes in your cat’s eating habits it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.
This article is for information only. It is recommended that you take your pet to the vet in case he has any kind of discomfort.
Resources:
https://icatcare.org/advice/?per_page=12&categories=cat-health,caring-for-a-sick-cat,preventative-healthcare,health-conditions