Do not be surprised to learn that health problems are common among cats especially if you have a new cat. Always expect to have health problems when you own a cat whatever its breed. While genetics can be a cause of some of these health problems, others are easily prevented.
- Worms Problems
Worms are a common & recurring problem with cats of any breed. Among the worms that attack cats include tapeworms, roundworms and hookworms. Have your cat tested with the vet if see that he is gaining weight, have white specks in his stool or have problems with fleas. Worms can turn out to be quite nasty if left untreated although medicine can easily cure them.
- Hairballs
The other common health problem of cats is hairball. All cats clean themselves regularly, usually they swallow their loose hair from their coats. Sometimes, loose hair if swallowed, gather into balls which will lodge in the digestive tract instead of going to the stool of the cat. Coughing and hacking are symptoms that your cat is developing hairballs in the digestive system. This should not worry us much though because cats can normally remove the hairball without causing any problem at all.
Although this can happen rarely, a hairball can pass through to the intestine of the cat which will cause blockage. This is enough to make you worry about the health situation of the cat because it is life threatening if not treated. If there is constipation, eating is no longer normal, the cat gets a dull coat, most probably the cat has a blockage. Take him to the vet right away if these symptoms or any of these are present. Brush the hair of your cat 2 to 3 times every week to remove loose hair and prevent hairballs and blockages. There are also food intended to control hairballs which you can use to feed your cat.
- Infection of the Urinary Tract
Cats also suffer from urinary tract infection. Male cats are more prone to Urinary Tract Infection than females. If the cat does not use the litter box then it probably is suffering from this sickness. If the urine of the cat has a strong smell, then this is an indication of a urinary problem. Take your cat immediately to the vet if you notice this proble. The vet can treat your cat and provide advice to prevent this disease from occurring later on.
- Feline Leukemia Issues
In years past, the biggest cause of the death of cats was feline leukemia. When vaccines were discovered, the disease was then contained. Cats that have been exposed to feline leukemia dont die immediately but their lifespan is reduced significantly.
Make sure to bring your cat to the vet for his regular check up in order to protect him from the virus. In order for your cat to lead a healthy and productive life, vaccinations should be regularly done. Most health problems can be avoided, although there are some which you cannot.
