A cat will do a fine job of hiding an illness from its owner, until it’s in really bad shape and needs emergency care. Owners should watch their cats for subtle shifts in grooming, appetite, and other behaviors to pick up on clues that something may be wrong. If any of the following signs are seen, take the cat to a Veterinarian Clinic in Roswell for emergency care right away.
Breathing Abnormalities
Cats do not pant to cool off like dogs do. Anytime a cat breathes with an open mouth, it’s an indication of respiratory distress. Feline asthma is the most common culprit, but heart failure may also cause respiratory changes. On average, cats breathe 15-30 times per minute. Count the breaths, and if it’s outside the norm, seek help.
Urinary Difficulties
Cats are private creatures, especially where the litter box is concerned. However, owners should pay careful attention when they see their cats visiting the box repeatedly within a short period. It’s relatively easy to see if the cat is actually producing urine; if there are no clumps in the litter box, it’s time for a checkup.
Paralysis of the Rear Legs
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common heart-related disease in cats. It causes thickening of the walls of the heart, and the blood becomes more likely to clot. These clots typically get stuck, cutting off circulation to the rear legs. The condition is incredibly painful, and the cat may drag its rear limbs.
Discolored Gums
The cat may not like having its mouth opened, but it’s important to check; the gums should be a rosy shade of pink. Pale gums may indicate anemia, decreased red blood cell production, or an autoimmune disease. These conditions are serious enough to warrant a blood transfusion at a Veterinarian Clinic in Roswell.
Cats are quiet creatures, but some conditions are very noticeable and serious enough to warrant immediate medical care. If a cat is exhibiting any of these signs, don’t wait; bring them in for a full examination.
Visit our Facebook profile for more information
