Common Diseases in Cats

More common in males because of narrower urethra. The cat cannot urinate. Goes to litter box several times, stays in urination position, but nothing comes out or only drops. May vocalize in pain.

It's an emergency. In 24-48 hours without treatment, the cat can die from kidney failure and electrolyte imbalance. If your cat is trying to urinate and can't, go to veterinarian immediately, even in the middle of the night.

FLUTD (feline lower urinary tract disease) is an umbrella term for various conditions that affect bladder and urethra. Cystitis is bladder inflammation, not always caused by infection.

Causes include crystals in urine, stones, infections, stress (yes, stress causes cystitis in cats). Treatment depends on specific cause.

Very common in senior cats. Kidneys gradually lose function. When symptoms appear, there's usually already significant loss.

No cure, but with special diet, hydration and medication, many cats live well for years after diagnosis. Regular blood and urine exams in cats above 7 years help catch it early.

The "cat flu". Usually caused by herpesvirus or calicivirus (vaccines protect against both, but not 100%). Highly contagious between cats.

Most recover with supportive care: keep nose clean, offer smelly food (stuffy cat can't smell and won't eat), hydration. Severe cases or kittens may need hospitalization.

Cats that had herpesvirus may have relapses during stress for the rest of their lives.

Cats vomit. It's a fact. Hairballs are common, especially in long-haired cats or those that groom a lot.

Occasional vomiting (once a week or less) of hair or right after eating too fast usually isn't concerning. Frequent vomiting, with blood, or accompanied by other symptoms needs investigation.

Regular brushing and using malt paste or food for hairball control helps.

Chronic intestinal inflammation. Can affect nutrient absorption.

Diagnosis usually requires ultrasound and sometimes biopsy. Treatment with special diet and, in some cases, immunosuppressive medication.

Virus that attacks the immune system. Transmitted by close contact between cats: saliva, bites, sharing bowls. Mother can pass to kittens.

No cure. Some cats eliminate the virus on their own, others become carriers. Positive cats have reduced life expectancy and are susceptible to infections and cancer.

There's a vaccine. Test every new cat before introducing to home with other cats.

The "HIV of cats" (doesn't transmit to humans). Transmission mainly through deep bites, common in street cats that fight.

No cure or vaccine in Brazil. Positive cats can live years without symptoms, but eventually develop immunodeficiency. Should be kept indoors and separated from negative cats in fight situations.

Caused by mutation of a common feline coronavirus. Most cats exposed to coronavirus don't develop FIP, but when they do, historically it was fatal.

There are new treatments (antivirals) that are changing this scenario, but they're still expensive and have complicated access in some places.

Very common in senior cats. The thyroid produces too much hormone, accelerating metabolism.

Diagnosis by blood test. Treatment with daily medication, special diet, or in some cases surgery or radioactive iodine.

More common in obese cats and neutered males. The body doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't respond to it.

Treatment usually with injectable insulin and diet. Some cats go into remission with adequate treatment and weight control.

Cats can have allergies to fleas (very common), foods, or things in the environment (pollen, mites).

Identifying and eliminating the cause is ideal. Rigorous flea control, elimination diet for suspected food allergy. Medication to control itching while investigating.