Signs of Illness in Cats: When to Call the Vet
Recognising Emergency Signs in Cats
Cats often hide their discomfort, so recognising emergencies early is vital for their wellbeing. Call your Vet immediately if your cat shows any of these symptoms:
- Severe bleeding, especially from the head or rear area
- Serious breathing difficulties
- Collapse or unconsciousness
- Fits or convulsions
- Shock signs, including panting, shivering, vomiting, coldness despite warmth, and pale lips or gums
If your Vet’s surgery doesn’t offer out-of-hours service, they will direct you to an emergency provider. Remember, vets generally prefer you bring your cat to the surgery in emergencies where all necessary equipment is available. Injuries such as broken limbs protruding through the skin or internal organs exposed also require urgent veterinary attention.
For outdoor cats, consider providing a litter tray overnight. If your cat doesn’t return by nightfall, search for them to ensure they aren’t injured. Microchipping is invaluable as it helps vets identify your cat quickly if found injured.
Spotting Early Signs of Illness
Cats are creatures of habit; a change in behaviour or routine often signals ill health. Keep an eye out for subtle changes such as:
- Reduced appetite or missing meal times
- Seeking quiet, dark places
- Poor grooming leading to greasy or unkempt coat
- Visible third eyelid ("haws") indicating possible dehydration
- Reluctance to be touched or moved, sometimes accompanied by unusual aggression
Other concerning symptoms include excessive vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing or sneezing, persistent scratching or licking at one area, difficulty eating, or drooling.
When to Visit the Vet
Cats with symptoms that are not emergencies should be assessed by a Vet on the next working day. Avoid giving human or other pet medications to your cat, as these can be harmful or toxic. For example, aspirin is poisonous to cats, and dosage requirements for antibiotics differ greatly between humans and felines.
Having pet insurance is highly recommended for peace of mind. Veterinary treatment can be costly, often up to £2000, depending on severity, but a few pounds monthly can save significant worry in emergencies. Policies usually cover your cat into old age if arranged early, but new policies for older cats over about seven years may not be available.
Common Causes of Illness and Emergency Signs
Cats may require urgent care after accidents, poisoning, bites, burns, heat stroke, or hypothermia. Straining in the litter tray, especially with pain, could indicate dangerous blockages requiring immediate vet attention. Recognising and reacting quickly to these issues can make all the difference for your cat’s recovery and survival.
Responsible Cat Ownership Tips
Providing a safe environment, regular health checks, vaccinations, microchipping, and proper nutrition are essential for keeping your cat healthy. Early detection of illness and timely vet visits greatly improve health outcomes. Always consult a Vet if uncertain, and never hesitate to seek emergency care when needed.