Top 10 Common Cat Health Conditions UK Vets Treat in 2025

Caring for your cat's health is vital to ensure they live a long, happy life. In the UK, veterinary data reveals the most common cat conditions treated, many of which can be prevented with sensible care. This guide explores the top 10 cat health issues seen by vets in 2025 and offers responsible pet owner tips to keep your feline healthy.

1. Periodontal Disease: Preventing Painful Dental Issues

Periodontal disease is the leading health issue in UK cats, making up around 14% of cases seen by vets. It results from poor dental hygiene, causing painful gum inflammation and tooth loss. Treatment can be costly and may require lifetime special diets. You can prevent this by maintaining good dental care including regular tooth brushing and professional cleanings. Learn how to keep your cat’s teeth cleaner.

2. Flea Infestations: A Preventable Itch

Fleas cause irritation and potential allergic reactions, accounting for 8-10% of vet visits. Regular use of vet-approved flea treatments and keeping your home clean can prevent infestations. Even indoor cats can get fleas. If unsure, here are signs your cat might have fleas.

3. Obesity: Managing Weight for Overall Health

Obesity affects about 11-12% of cats and can lead to diabetes, arthritis, and other health issues. Prevent by feeding balanced diets, controlling portions, encouraging play and exercise, and consulting a vet or vet nurse weight clinic.

4. Heart Murmurs: Early Detection Saves Lives

Seen in roughly 5% of cats, heart murmurs can be hereditary, especially in pedigree breeds. While not largely preventable, regular health check-ups help detect heart problems early, improving management outcomes. Before getting a pedigree cat, research health history carefully.

5. Injuries and Accidents: Keeping Cats Safe

Accidents cause nearly 5% of vet visits. Indoor cats have fewer risks, while outdoor cats face dangers like fights and road traffic. Prevent injuries by supervising outdoor time, neutering to reduce fighting tendencies, and safe home environments.

6. Overgrown Nails: Easy to Prevent with Scratching

Overgrown nails affect about 5% of cats, causing discomfort and injury risks. Provide appropriate scratching posts, encourage play, and trim nails as needed to prevent problems.

7. Chronic Kidney Disease: Breed Risks and Monitoring

Some breeds, like Persian cats, are more prone to kidney disease. Chronic kidney failure affects about 3.6% of cats seen by vets. Early diagnosis and diet management can improve quality of life.

8. Cat Bites and Fighting Injuries

Bite wounds from fights make up around 3.6% of conditions. Multi-cat households and new introductions increase risk. Spaying and neutering reduce aggression, and ensuring peaceful introductions helps prevent injuries.

9. Abscesses: Common Complications from Wounds

Abscesses not caused by bites account for 3.2% of cases; those caused by bites are another 3.2%. Abscesses occur when bacteria infect wounds that heal over. Prompt vet care is essential for healing.

10. Other Common Factors and Prevention

Digestive problems, skin sensitivities, infectious diseases like Feline Leukaemia Virus, and diabetes also affect many cats. Regular vet visits, vaccination, good diet, and attentive home care are key to prevention and early treatment.

Summary and Responsible Cat Care

The data shows many common cat diseases are preventable with basic home care and regular veterinary visits. Prioritise dental hygiene, flea control, weight management, safe environments, and vaccination. Understanding breed-related risks helps tailor your care. Responsible cat ownership is the foundation of a healthy, happy pet life.