Unlike dogs, who often show obvious signs of discomfort, cats are notoriously stoic. In the wild, showing weakness makes an animal a target for predators. Though your cat is safe at home, this instinct remains strong. That means by the time a cat shows clear signs of being sick, their condition may already be quite advanced.
As a cat owner, learning to read the subtle cues is one of the most important things you can do for their health. Here are 10 of the most common, but often missed, signs that your cat may be unwell.
1. Changes in Litter Box Habits
This is one of the most critical signs to watch for. If your cat starts urinating or defecating outside the litter box, don't just assume it's a behavioral issue. It could be a sign of:
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Painful urination can make a cat associate the litter box with pain.
- Kidney Disease: This often causes increased urination, making it hard for them to get to the box in time.
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): A group of conditions affecting the bladder and urethra.
- Arthritis: If the litter box has high sides, it may be painful for an older cat to get in and out.
Also, watch for straining to urinate or crying out in the box. A male cat that cannot urinate is a life-threatening medical emergency (urinary blockage) that requires immediate vet attention.
2. Hiding More Than Usual
Most cats have a favorite hiding spot, but a sick cat will often take this to an extreme. If you notice your normally social cat is suddenly spending all their time under the bed, in a closet, or in another secluded area, they could be in pain or feeling unwell. It's their way of protecting themselves when they feel vulnerable.
3. Changes in Appetite or Thirst
A change in eating or drinking habits is a significant red flag. Both an increase and a decrease can signal a problem.
- Decreased Appetite: This is a non-specific sign that accompanies almost any illness, from dental pain to kidney failure or cancer.
- Increased Appetite: Can be a sign of hyperthyroidism or diabetes, especially if it's accompanied by weight loss.
- Increased Thirst: Often a classic sign of kidney disease or diabetes.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
A change in weight that isn't related to a deliberate diet change is a cause for concern. Weight loss is common with many serious conditions like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, dental disease, and cancer. Sudden weight gain could be related to a less active lifestyle due to pain (like arthritis) or other metabolic issues.
Run your hands along your cat’s spine and ribs. If they feel much more prominent than they used to, it's time for a vet check-up, even if your cat is still eating well.
5. Changes in Grooming Habits
Cats are meticulous groomers. When they stop grooming themselves, it's a strong indicator that something is wrong. A greasy, matted, or unkempt coat can mean they are in too much pain to groom (arthritis is a common cause) or they simply don't have the energy. Conversely, over-grooming, especially in one spot, can be a sign of pain, stress, or a skin condition in that area.
6. Changes in Vocalization
You know your cat's normal meows and purrs. Pay attention if they start vocalizing more or less than usual, or if the sound of their meow changes. Excessive crying, yowling, or howling can be a sign of pain, anxiety, or even cognitive dysfunction (dementia) in older cats. A normally talkative cat that becomes quiet could also be feeling unwell.
7. Lethargy or Decreased Activity
If your cat is sleeping more, seems uninterested in playing, or has a general lack of energy, it's often a sign of illness. While all cats sleep a lot, you should notice a change from their normal routine. This is another non-specific sign, but it’s a powerful one. If their favorite toy or treat doesn't get a reaction, something is likely wrong.
8. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Unusually bad breath is not normal for cats. It's often a sign of dental disease, which is painful and can lead to more serious infections. In some cases, breath that smells like ammonia can indicate kidney disease, while an unusually sweet or fruity smell can be a sign of diabetes.
9. Changes in Breathing
Any change in your cat's breathing is an emergency. Watch for:
- Panting or open-mouth breathing (cats do not pant like dogs)
- Wheezing or coughing
- Shallow, rapid breaths
- Noisy breathing
These can be signs of asthma, heart failure, respiratory infection, or other serious conditions.
When to Go to the ER
If your cat is having trouble breathing, is unable to stand, is non-responsive, or you suspect a urinary blockage (especially in a male cat), go to an emergency vet immediately.
10. Changes in Social Interaction
A change in how your cat interacts with you and other pets is a subtle but important clue. A cuddly cat that suddenly wants to be left alone, or a normally independent cat that becomes clingy and needy, could be signaling that they don't feel well.
Trust your instincts. You know your cat better than anyone. If you feel like something is "off," you are probably right. It is always better to get it checked out by a vet and find that nothing is wrong than to wait too long.