How to understand that a cat is sick: external signs, how the animal behaves, clear signs of illness, what to do

Symptoms of illness in a cat are easy to miss, since the pet will not say in words about its suffering. Therefore, the owner must always be on alert in order to provide urgent assistance in time and show the pet to the doctor. It remains to figure out how to understand that the cat is sick.

How can you tell if your cat is sick?

How to understand that a cat is sick

In fact, for an experienced and attentive owner this issue is not a problem. But if experience in keeping cats is minimal, then help in “recognizing” the disease is necessary.

You can tell if your cat is sick by the following signs:

• unusual behavior for one to several days;
• desire for privacy - the cat sleeps more often than it is awake;
• unnatural posture;
• decreased activity (mood), appetite;
• “grumpiness”, sometimes – a manifestation of aggression in response to an attempt at contact;
• the desire to lick the area of ​​the body where there is pain;
• sometimes the cat begins to meow more often than usual or in some other way;
• sometimes you may notice shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing or other changes in breathing;
• the coat becomes drier and looks “ragged”, and the skin loses its elasticity;
• possible signs of gastrointestinal distress - diarrhea and/or vomiting;
• weight change;
• thirst due to food refusal;
• visible discharge from the nose and eyes;
• changes in the processes of urination and bowel movements - the color, smell, consistency of urine and feces may change, pain may appear when excreting urine and bowel movements;
• unpleasant odor from the skin, mouth, ears;
• discharge from the genitals;
• the appearance of swelling, lameness, stiffness of movement;
• noticeable increase in abdominal volume;
• sudden fainting, paralysis, loss of orientation in space;
• fear of water and/or light;
• salivation.

Important! In order to assume that a cat is unhealthy, it is not at all necessary to wait for all the listed signs of illness to appear. Even the presence of one of them is enough to create a motive to take the cat for examination to the veterinarian, because when a cat is in pain, the whole body suffers, and not just a separate part of it.

Signs of pain syndrome

Pain often accompanies many diseases. Cats are predators who are not used to showing others that they are unwell. Therefore, even a caring owner does not always notice that something is wrong with the pet.

How to understand that a cat is sick and has pain syndrome?

1. The pupils are not narrow, but dilated.
2. Sociable pets avoid any contact, and unsociable pets move away even more.
3. The animal does not like being touched.
4. There are manifestations of causeless aggression towards people or other pets.
5. The cat often bites or licks a certain area of ​​the body.
6. The pet is lethargic and inactive.
7. The eye is closed with the “third eyelid”.
8. The cat can't jump high.
9. If an animal has pain in the oral cavity, then it tries to get its paw into it.
10. When there is pain in the ears, the cat tilts its head in the direction in which the pain occurs.
11. The cat pose is tense, with an arched spine. When lying down, the back is in a hunched position and the paws are tucked.

If your pet has most of the above symptoms, then you should seek help from a veterinarian.

Cat pose when sick

A healthy cat behaves freely - walks, runs, jumps, lies, sits. A sick pet tries to behave as usual, but experiences pain or discomfort.

These sensations force the sick cat to take the body position in which discomfort and pain are least noticeable. This position is not always unnatural, but when a cat is in pain, the animal has a constant need to take just such a position.

Sometimes the disease manifests itself differently. For example, at elevated temperatures, a cat tries to retire, hide, so as not to be disturbed. He lies down with his front paws tucked under him and “ruffles up.”

But for both options it is typical that the cat is in a state of tension. This is evidenced by the cat's arched (hunched) back and belly, tucked in the direction of the spine.

Diseases transmitted from cats to humans

Diabetes mellitus in cats: symptoms and treatment

The proximity of a person and a kitty is fraught with the fact that pets may well “reward” their owners with their diseases. This is rabies, lichen, worms.

Signs of human infection:

• cough;
• elevated temperature;
• skin itching;
• intestinal disorder;
• stomach pain.

Young children are at risk.

Ringworm, which domestic cats pick up from stray animals, is transmitted by simply petting the cat's fur.

Scratches are dangerous. An infection enters the human blood. Rabies is the most terrible incurable disease. Cats are vaccinated to prevent their owners from becoming infected.

An animal with rabies cannot be treated. The body is immediately euthanized and cremated.

Vocalization is one of the signs of disease in cats

Vocalization (loud, inviting meow) can be physiological or pathological. Physiological occurs when the cat demands food, meets the owner, and so on. Pathological vocalization indicates the presence of health problems in the animal.

If your cat constantly meows loudly, this may indicate the development of the following diseases:

• hypertension;
• hyperthyroidism;
• diseases of the central nervous system;
• the presence of malignant tumors;
• arthritis;
• pathologies of the urinary tract;
• diseases of the digestive system.

Vocalization is also often observed in older animals. In cats, just like in humans, hearing and vision decrease, animals become more irritable and sensitive.

The cat has a stomach ache: 9 main reasons

A cat has a stomach ache for the following reasons:

1. Digestive disorders due to overfeeding or eating foods unsuitable for cats - table scraps.
2. A sudden change in diet. Most often, kittens suffer when switching from milk to solid food. However, indigestion also occurs in adults when there is a sudden replacement of natural food with dry granules or vice versa. The greatest harm to the intestinal and gastric mucosa is caused by alternating natural products and factory-made ready-made foods.
3. Poisoning : the cause of an eating disorder is poor-quality food, eating weakened mice during deratization, household chemicals getting into the food, or incorrectly administered medications.
4. Viral infections .
5. The activity of parasites - helminths or lamblia.
6. Chronic diseases of internal organs - liver, pancreas.
7. Urolithiasis and inflammation of the bladder.
8. Pyometra is purulent inflammation of the uterus.
9. Oncological diseases.

A preliminary diagnosis of the disease can be made by the cat owner based on medical history and additional signs.

Behavior

Behavior in cats can vary depending on the type of disease, but it is always the earliest symptom of any feline disease. Whatever the normal behavior, in a sick cat it will always be different from usual.

For example, with elevated temperature, intoxication, or internal bleeding, the cat will be lethargic, indifferent, and will try to distance itself from any contact. And with carnivore rabies, which affects the nervous system, the cat is likely to be agitated, even aggressive, then overly affectionate, and later paralyzed.

Important! If there are obvious injuries, the cat will try to leave to avoid inspection and any manipulation. It is especially important to remember this if hidden injuries are suspected.

Nausea and vomiting

Vomiting is normal in felines. With its help, they get rid of fur that gets into the stomach during licking. A veterinarian's consultation is needed if the animal vomits several times a day, feels sick and has excessive salivation.

Based on the state of the vomit, a possible cat disease is determined:

• if it is yellow – gastrointestinal disorder;
• cloudy green color with an unpleasant odor - infection;
• the presence of blood indicates possible internal bleeding, neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract, injuries to the oral cavity and pharynx;
• foamy – gastrointestinal diseases;
• with a lot of mucus – worms;
• with a strong unpleasant odor - constipation.

The factor of possible poisoning should not be ruled out, so monitor your pet’s diet so as not to cause gastrointestinal upset.

Body temperature in cats

Normal body temperature in cats is 38-39 degrees. The larger the animal, the closer its temperature is to the lower limit of normal. So for a kitten the normal temperature will be 38.5-39 degrees, and for an adult large cat – 38-38.5.

Depending on the disease, the cat’s temperature may decrease or increase, but it is impossible to establish a diagnosis based on this sign alone. Both hyperthermia and hypothermia are dangerous conditions for cats.

Also, at elevated temperatures, the cat's ears, paws, and nose may be hot, but this is not necessary.

To measure temperature, you can use a regular medical thermometer and any neutral lubricant (most often Vaseline or Vaseline oil).

The procedure is as follows:

1. The thermometer is shaken (or reset if the device is electronic).
2. The tip of the thermometer is lubricated and carefully inserted into the cat's anus about 1.5 cm.
3. After measuring the temperature, the thermometer is thoroughly wiped with a cloth soaked in a disinfectant solution.
4. The device must be stored in the protective case provided by the manufacturer.

Important! Taking temperature is an unpleasant procedure for most animals. In order for a sick cat to experience minimal discomfort during such manipulations, you need to fix it, talk to it calmly and lightly massage the area of ​​​​the base of the tail from above, from the back.

Body mass

Many cat owners are amused when the cat is large and “in body”. But excess weight is harmful to animals as well as to people, since it causes problems with the musculoskeletal system, heart, and blood vessels.

Specific body weight indicators depend on the breed. The following signs indicate excess weight:

• it is difficult to feel the ribs and spine;
• the waist is invisible;
• In the area of ​​the sternum, on the back, when palpated, fat is felt.

With obesity, these signs intensify, in addition, the volume in the abdominal area greatly increases.

Extra pounds in felines occur as a result of stress, hormonal disorders, overeating and poor nutrition. This is also typical for castrated animals.

Preventing excess weight for spayed or neutered pets

Overweight cat

Lack of weight in a cat is also dangerous. Thinness occurs due to helminthic infestations, cancer, and digestive problems. The fact that a cat has lost a lot of weight can be determined visually:

• there is no fat layer at all in the chest area;
• the muscles are almost invisible;
• In smooth-haired cats, pelvic bones, ribs and other parts of the skeleton are visible under the skin.

Underweight cat

Character of bowel movements

In order to notice changes in the nature of feces and urine, you need to know what they should be normally in a cat. Feces may vary slightly in consistency and color (depending on the type of feeding). But in any case, feces should be formed, the color should be from light brown to dark brown, without a strong odor.

In sick cats, the stool may be too loose (diarrhea) or too dry (dehydration, constipation), and the color may range from light gray to black. The smell of feces in some diseases can be extremely unpleasant and very pungent.

A cat’s urine should normally be transparent, yellow, with a specific odor, without foreign inclusions (traces of blood, “sand”, etc.).

Treatment

To alleviate the cat’s condition, you should not feed it when the above symptoms appear.
You need to drink warm water, and to cleanse the stomach and intestines, you can add a few drops of Vaseline oil. The choice of drug for treatment will depend on the diagnosis. If a cat has a stomach ache due to an infection, she is prescribed antibacterial and antiviral therapy. Erythromycin and Tylosin are commonly used. If worms are detected, anthelmintic drugs will be prescribed, and antiprotozoal drugs will be prescribed to combat protozoa. If the animal is poisoned, it is necessary to cleanse the stomach with water and salt and give activated charcoal. You can induce vomiting using potassium permanganate or apomorphine.

To remove toxins and metabolic products, it is necessary to take sorbents. In case of severe pain, the veterinarian will select antispasmodics for the cat and calculate the required dosage. If urolithiasis is diagnosed, anesthetics and muscle relaxants are administered using a catheter. If the problem is advanced, an operation is performed to remove the stone or dilate the urethra. For ascites, fluid accumulated in the abdominal cavity is removed and diuretics are prescribed. If the cat has intestinal obstruction or a neoplasm, treatment will be surgical.

Peritonitis is treated comprehensively: anesthetics are given to relieve pain, then the accumulated fluid is pumped out using the puncture method. The cat is prescribed antibiotics, intravenous saline solutions, vitamins, and immunomodulators.

Respiratory rate, shortness of breath, cough – manifestations of the disease in cats

A healthy adult cat makes 20-30 respiratory movements per minute, and kittens - 30-50. Respiratory rate is affected not only by diseases, but also by environmental parameters. In the heat, the number of inhalations and exhalations can increase by 1.5 times, in the cold it decreases to the lower limit of normal.

The nature of breathing movements may also vary. Normally they are medium-deep and smooth. During sleep, a cat's breathing can be rare and deep, but in critical conditions, breathing becomes shallow - “fast” and intermittent.

Rapid, infrequent (if there are no adequate reasons for it) or shallow breathing most often indicates the development of the disease in the animal.

In order to find out the respiratory rate of a sick cat, you need to time it and count the number of inhalations and exhalations in 30 seconds, then multiply the resulting value by 2.

Infectious diseases

Let's start with infectious diseases of small kittens, which are contagious and also difficult to treat. Let's talk about the most common diseases that are not tied to a specific breed.

Infectious diseases in cats also include calcivirosis.

Viral pneumonia

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung tissue that is caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses.

Viral pneumonia, following the name, is caused by a certain virus that enters the animal’s body, after which it begins to actively destroy it from the inside, causing various symptoms.

The disease appears for the following reasons:

1. Weakened immunity.
2. Hypothermia.
3. Poor nutrition.
4. Infection from sick animals.
5. The presence of other diseases that weaken the body.
6. Severe stress.
7. Immunodeficiency (similar to HIV in humans).

Since the disease affects the respiratory system, the first thing that occurs in the animal is oxygen starvation.

The following symptoms appear:

1. Cough . It occurs because mucus accumulates in the lungs and bronchi. The liquid appears due to the animal’s body’s response to the destructive activity of the virus.
2. Hard breath . Appears due to functional disorders in the lungs caused by the destruction of cells by the virus, as well as accumulations of mucus.
3. Wheezing . They also talk about the presence of large accumulations of mucus in the lungs and bronchi.
4. Runny nose . It is a protective reaction of the body.
5. Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat). Occurs due to a febrile state, as well as an increase in temperature.
6. Blue coloration of mucous membranes.
7. Redness of the eyes.

Let's look at how to treat a kitten for a cold.
It’s worth saying right away that it is impossible to determine the pathogen “by eye,” so you definitely need to take the kitten to the veterinarian. The doctor diagnoses viral, fungal or bacterial pneumonia, and then prescribes appropriate treatment.

Important! Antibiotics are used only if viral pneumonia is complicated by a bacterial infection. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, and in case of fungal infection they worsen the condition.

Antiviral drugs are prescribed, such as: “Maksidin”, “Forvet”, “Ribaflox”. Drugs that support the immune system (Gamavit, Fosprenil) are also prescribed. Therapy is supplemented with vitamins A, C and D.

Separately, cough medications are prescribed that improve sputum discharge. If an animal is diagnosed with abnormalities in the functioning of the heart, then appropriate medications are prescribed.

Let us remind you that treatment at home is impossible until the causative agent of pneumonia is identified. If the animal does not receive help in a timely manner, then death is possible, given its young age and underdeveloped immunity.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyeball, which is caused by the activity of bacteria or viruses. Conjunctivitis can be allergic.

The cause of the appearance is viruses or bacteria that enter the kitten’s body and can affect more than just one organ or organ system. Conjunctivitis is usually a complication of a viral or bacterial cold, causing the animal to suffer greatly.

For conjunctivitis, Maksidin and Tsiprovet may be prescribed.

If the cause is an allergy, then in the animal the disease manifests itself in both eyes, causing redness of the mucous membrane, frequent blinking, and the production of tears. This variant of the disease is not contagious, as it occurs due to the action of internal factors, and not external ones.

Trauma can also be the root cause of conjunctivitis. The fact is that we are surrounded by pathogenic organisms that are trying in every possible way to get into the body (a favorable environment) in order to begin to actively multiply and parasitize.

Did you know? The physique of cats allows them to crawl into any gap through which their heads could fit. And all because these animals do not have collarbones.

Any wound is a kind of “entrance” into the body through which a virus, infection or fungus passes.

Chemistry. Any chemical that irritates or burns mucous membranes can potentially cause illness, so you should never leave laundry detergents, paint, or surface cleaners exposed.

Parasites. Yes, there are microscopic parasites that can live in a kitten's eye. It is impossible to identify them without special equipment, but you will definitely notice the characteristic symptoms.

Antiparasitic drugs for cats include Prazicide, Stronghold, and Advantage.

Inflammation. Conjunctivitis can appear as a complication if the animal starts with inflammation of the tear ducts or the cornea of ​​the eye.

Symptoms of the disease:

1. Copious secretion of tears.
2. Redness and swelling of the eyelids.
3. Negative reaction to light.
4. Cloudiness of the diseased eye.
5. Everting of the eyelids when moving the eyeball.

If you are used to treating diseases with the help of various herbs, then you can wash the kitten’s eye with a mild decoction of medicinal chamomile or calendula. You can also use regular black tea.

Important! The infusion must be filtered several times to prevent the ingress of small or large particles that will worsen the condition of the animal.

You can use a solution of furatsilin. To do this, dissolve 1 g per 5 liters of water. Such large volumes are due to the fact that it is very difficult to measure a smaller amount of powder without an electronic scale, and an increased concentration will greatly harm the kitten.

If the conjunctivitis is bacterial, then you can use tetracycline ointment, which is sold in a regular pharmacy. The ointment copes well with inflammation and destroys pathogenic flora.

Your veterinarian may prescribe special eye drops for kittens. They help to cope with the problem, but the downside is that they must be instilled quite often, since the product is quickly removed from the eye along with the tears.

If everything is more than serious, then intramuscular antibiotics are prescribed to cope with the infection. Let us remember that antibiotics do not work against viruses and fungi, so it is necessary to determine the type of pathogen before starting treatment.

For allergic conjunctivitis, a specialist prescribes special antihistamines that help cope with both allergies and swelling and inflammation. If the allergy is caused by the activity of worms, then the helminths are treated at the same time.

Important! The disease can be complicated by inflammation of the eyelids or cornea.

Peritonitis

Peritonitis is an inflammation of the lining tissues of the abdominal cavity. Viral peritonitis differs in that the causative agent is a virus, and the disease itself becomes infectious.

The main cause of infection by the virus is the weakness of the immune system. Since the disease is infectious, a kitten can become infected with it from other cats (only from cats; in other animals, peritonitis is caused by another virus).

Infection occurs orally through consumption of contaminated food or contact with excrement/mucus of a sick animal.

The disease is considered dangerous because it can be transmitted by airborne droplets; therefore, all animals that are indoors can become ill at once.

Important! Animals from 2 to 11 years old have some immunity to viral peritonitis and get sick very rarely.

Symptoms of peritonitis:

1. Body temperature increases to 40 °C.
2. The kitten is indifferent to everything that happens around him.
3. The animal refuses food.
4. Noticeable weight loss.
5. The abdomen increases in size. This creates the erroneous impression that the animal is pregnant.
6. Shortness of breath appears.

It is worth mentioning separately that the disease can affect the functionality of almost all organs.
Peritonitis can cause conjunctivitis, paralysis of the limbs and strange behavior (CNS). Unfortunately, there is no treatment, if only for the reason that to diagnose and identify the disease it is necessary to cut open the peritoneum of the poor animal.

There is an experimental treatment that involves the administration of antiviral drugs, as well as pumping out mucus from the abdominal cavity, which accumulates as a result of the activity of the virus.

However, such treatment is not only time-consuming and expensive, but also practically useless, since the animal’s body may not withstand such therapy due to the dysfunction of many important organs (liver, kidneys).

Discharges and discharges in diseases in cats

Symptoms of some diseases include discharge from the eyes/nose/genitals. Discharge is the release of purulent, catarrhal (mucous), catarrhal-purulent, hemorrhagic (with blood) exudate.

Normally, cats can discharge only from the genitals and only in two cases - during estrus or during pregnancy. But such discharge should not be mixed with pus and should not have an unpleasant, putrid odor. The cat may have slight discharge from the prepuce (remnants of smegma or lubricant).

There should be no discharge and/or discharge from the eyes and nose, therefore, if any appear, this is a sign of the disease.

Signs that something is wrong with your cat

Some pathological conditions go away on their own. The predator's body eliminates diseases without drugs.

But there are symptoms that require urgent veterinary help:

• incessant vomiting, diarrhea with mucus and blood;
• dehydration caused by diarrhea, refusal of water;
• labored breathing;
• dizziness, loss of ability to walk, fainting;
• convulsions, seizures;
• blue gums;
• severe pain, manifested in loud persistent meowing;
• foreign body that interferes with breathing;
• serious injury, cut.

The pet is transported carefully; if possible, a veterinarian is called to the home.

Condition of coat and skin

A healthy cat has elastic, smooth skin (without foreign formations, swelling and wounds), toned muscles, smooth, shiny, not disheveled fur (the hairs adhere well to each other), without bald patches and dandruff, without ectoparasites and traces of their vital activity.

If the skin of an adult cat or kitten does not meet these requirements, then there is a high probability of developing pathology. Very often, skin changes (local lesions or systemic damage) are a sign of some deeper and more serious disease.

In this case, consultation with a veterinarian is required to make a correct diagnosis and further treatment.

Videos and Illustrations

How to help a kitten with constipation

Stomach problems these days are increasingly found not only among people, but also in animals. Improper feeding, a sedentary lifestyle, and stress affect the health of the gastrointestinal tract. The stomach of cats is very sensitive to any unfavorable factors, so it is often the first to suffer.

Of course, most stomach diseases can be eliminated with diet and proper treatment. But how can a disease be recognized if the animal is unable to tell what is bothering it? There are a number of signs that indicate that your cat has a stomach ache. The symptoms are easy for an attentive owner to notice, and timely assistance will help preserve the life and health of the pet.

Condition of the eyes and mouth in a sick cat

The conjunctiva (mucous membrane of the eye) and the cat’s mouth should be clean, moderately moisturized, and without defects.

There should also be no visible defects (wounds, ulcers) in the pet’s mouth. The number of teeth is according to age standards. They should be smooth, tightly adjacent to each other, without tartar. There should be no unpleasant odor coming from the cat's mouth.

You should also pay attention to the amount of saliva and the condition of the oral mucosa. It should be smooth and moderately moisturized.

Behavioral characteristics and daily routine disorders

The owner is usually alarmed by the behavior of the pet: after all, the animal cannot say that it hurts, so it shows it through behavioral reactions.

If the cat is sick, then disturbances in the daily routine will be noted:

1. The pet sleeps too much. A sick animal becomes drowsy and stays awake less than usual - this should alert the owner.
2. The cat begins to walk past the litter box or visits it frequently, but to no avail. She refuses to go to the designated place, even when it is cleaned.
3. Aggressive behavior. Such manifestations should be especially alarming if the cat is affectionate and friendly by nature.
4. The animal stops taking care of itself, the fur becomes matted and the appearance becomes unkempt.
5. Eating disorders. When a cat is unwell, it either refuses food or eats little.

Sometimes behavioral disorders and disruptions in daily routine are associated with other factors and can be a result of stress. Therefore, you cannot draw a conclusion about the pet’s condition only on the listed signs - pay attention to other symptoms.

What symptoms require immediate medical attention?

All diseases have certain symptom complexes. Therefore, if a cat exhibits one of the signs, there is no need to urgently contact a veterinarian. You can postpone your visit to the clinic for a while and observe your pet. But cats are animals with a fast metabolism, so many diseases, often of infectious etiology (origin), develop quickly in them.

Such cat diseases require immediate medical attention and are characterized by the following signs:

• significant (often persistent) changes in body temperature;
• persistent vomiting and/or diarrhea;
• dehydration;
• intoxication (weakness, lethargy, apathy, lack of appetite);
• neurological abnormalities (disorientation, fainting, paralysis/semi-paralysis);
• blood in urine and/or feces;
• purulent, hemorrhagic discharge from the nose, eyes, genitals;
• eye and head injuries;
• “overgrown” third eyelid;
• extensive wounds or other damage to the skin;
• excessive salivation;
• bloating;
• difficulty breathing, cough;
• itching and/or foul odor in the ears;
• heavy bleeding of various origins.

Expert opinion

Chepa Natalya Semenovna

Veterinarian

Ask an expert

Please note that a drop in temperature to 37.5 or below is dangerous for the animal’s life and requires immediate contact to the clinic. Frequent vomiting and diarrhea are very life-threatening for a cat, especially for small kittens that quickly become dehydrated. Do not hesitate to visit if you have a problem with urination. This applies to a greater extent to males. If a cat sits on the tray frequently, but to no avail, for more than a day, he will need immediate veterinary attention. One of the common problems in cats is constipation. Absence of bowel movements combined with vomiting is a reason to contact the clinic as soon as possible.

What complications can a cold cause?

A cold in a cat, especially a kitten, can lead to disruption of the functioning of internal organs. If left untreated, the viral infection affects the bronchi, lungs, joints and kidneys. The animal’s immunity decreases, and inflammatory processes caused by bacteria occur:

• pneumonia (the disease is accompanied by damage to the lung tissue, often leading to the death of the animal);
• bronchitis (characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchi, the appearance of a cough with the discharge of thick sputum and breathing problems);
• bacterial arthritis (accompanied by pain and decreased joint mobility);
• pyelonephritis and cystitis (inflammatory processes in the kidneys and bladder lead to disruption of urine production processes and poisoning of the body with metabolic products).

What to do if your cat is sick

If you suspect that your cat is not feeling well, you should contact a veterinary clinic. Experienced owners can independently provide first aid to their cat. But if there are few skills in care and maintenance, then it is better not to risk the pet’s health, because self-medication can have the opposite effect and the cat will have to get sick longer. How long the cat will feel unwell directly depends on the owner.

Pets should always be supervised. For an owner who knows well the behavioral habits and favorite habits of his cat, it will not be difficult to notice changes in his well-being.

In this case, when visiting a veterinarian at the clinic, you will need to explain in detail what has changed in the cat’s behavior. This will help the specialist make an accurate diagnosis much faster. And timely treatment is half the success.

Your kitten is sick

Your pet is sick
Just yesterday, your furry friend was running around the house like crazy, chasing a ball and dragging his favorite mouse by the tail, and today he lies all day, doesn’t play and doesn’t go near the bowl with his favorite dish? Of course you have cause for concern. Your first actions:

1. Feel the cat's nose. If it is dry and hot, your pet most likely has a fever. 2. Look into the cat's mouth. Does she have ulcers or a gray-white coating on her tongue, or does she have an unpleasant odor? 3. Observe how your cat went to the toilet. Does she have diarrhea or constipation, what color is the urine and its amount, is there any blood in the stool or urine? 4. Remember what you fed your pet the day before and whether there was any vomiting. If a cat vomits, what is it - undigested food, bile or a white foamy mass? 5. Has your cat fallen from a height or suffered other injuries? 6. Has your pussy been in contact with other people's cats, dogs or other animals (if you are with a cat in the country)? All this will help the veterinarian quickly understand the cause of your pet’s illness.

Know that delaying going to the veterinary clinic could cost your pet’s life!

If you do not have the opportunity to immediately show the kitten (cat) to a veterinarian, then you can provide primary care yourself. 1. So, if your pet has a hot and dry nose and paw pads, this is the first sign of a fever. The cause may be some kind of bacterial infection in the body (pneumonia or kidney inflammation, etc.), only a doctor can make a diagnosis based on urine and blood tests. There may be many medications in your home medicine cabinet, but most of them are simply dangerous for cats. Of these, you can give the following without harm to the cat's health: - Arbidol (for children) in tablets. For a kitten - 1/6 tablet (age from 1.5 to 3 months) or 1/4 tablet (from 3 to 6 months), for an adult cat - 1/2 or 1/4 tablet (depending on body weight). It is given 2 times a day (morning and evening) for 3 days. Place the tablet further on the root of the tongue and add a little water from a syringe (without a needle) to make it easier to swallow. Arbidol is a good immunostimulant and has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. The cat's temperature is measured with a regular thermometer: the tip is lubricated with Vaseline and inserted into the anus for 3 minutes (the cat must first be wrapped in a diaper and placed on its side, fixing it in this position). If a cat’s body temperature rises above 40 degrees, then it is necessary to reduce it as soon as possible. To do this, fill one syringe with: no-spa (0.2 ml) + analgin (0.2 ml) + diphenhydramine (0.2 ml), give an injection intramuscularly (in the muscle of the hind paw) or subcutaneously (in withers under the skin).

2. Calicivirus. If there is profuse salivation from the mouth, there are ulcers in the mouth on the tongue, on the palate, on the lips or on the nasal septum, then this is a viral disease “calicivirosis”, and this is a rather dangerous disease. Often these symptoms are accompanied by discharge from the nose and eyes. If ulcers appear in the stomach and intestines, then the animal may have vomiting and diarrhea. With calicivirus, the animal may also limp on its front legs, sometimes on its hind legs (this is not a bruise from a fall). This insidious disease can be cured if treatment is started in time, which can be prescribed by a veterinarian.

First aid regimen: - Bicillin-3 (antibiotic in a human pharmacy) diluted with saline solution (sodium chloride) or novocaine 5%. Pour 5 ml of sodium chloride or novocaine 5% into the vial of Bicillin-3 with a syringe and shake until the antibiotic dissolves. Take the resulting medicine into a 2 ml syringe in the amount of 0.5 ml for a kitten or 1 ml for a cat 6 months and older. (Release a drop of medicine with air from the needle). Inject into the withers area (between the shoulder blades) under the skin. It is done once every 2-3 days, 3-5 injections in total, sometimes 2 are enough. You can use Penicillin or Ampicillin (once a day, 5-7 days). You can also use the drug "Tylosin" (veterinary). It is given once a day, 0.3 ml for a kitten and 0.5 ml for an adult cat in the muscle of the hind limb (for 3 - 5 days). — it is necessary to include antiviral veterinary drugs, for example Fosprenil and Maxidin, as well as strengthening Gamavit. Fosprenil and Maxidin can be done together in one shot. To do this, fill a syringe with 0.2 ml of maxidin + 0.4 ml of fosprenil for a kitten (a 2 ml syringe or a 1 ml insulin syringe) and 0.5 ml of maxidin + 1 ml of fosprenil (for an adult cat), applied to the withers area under the skin. Gamavit (pink liquid) vitamin preparation is given 0.5 ml for a kitten and 1 ml for an adult cat (at the withers s/c). Fosprenil with Maxidin are taken 2 times a day (from 5 to 7 days), Gamavit 1-2 times a day (for 6-7 days). If there is no Maxidin, then you can only do Fosprenil. - in the first 2-3 days of any viral disease, you can use injections of globulin Globfel - 4. 1 ml is given once a day (a dose for both a kitten and a cat) at the withers under the skin, for only 2-3 days. To exclude an allergic reaction to the drug, it is better to do it in fractions - for example, first 0.3 ml and after 40 minutes the rest of the medicine. For more effective treatment, you need to add Anandin veterinary drug (antiviral and antifungal action), do 0.2 - 0.3 ml for a kitten and 0.4 - 0.6 ml for an adult cat (once a day for 4-6 days) i/m.

- if the kitten becomes dehydrated, when it does not eat or even drink water, it is necessary to give injections of a cocktail (saline + ascorbic acid + glucose 5% + dexamethasone). Fill a 5 ml syringe with 0.3-0.5 ml of ascorbic acid, 1-1.5 ml of glucose 5%, preferably 0.2 ml of dexamethasone (once) and + saline, approximately 3 ml. This cocktail is made at the withers under the skin (1-2 times a day). Another 5 ml of saline solution (without additives) is made after the cocktail. Cyanocobalamin B12 has a good therapeutic effect (0.5 ml 1 time per day IM, every other day). Dexamethasone (i.m. or s.c.) 0.2 ml for kittens and 0.5 ml for an adult cat 1 time per day for 5 to 7 days (relieves allergic reactions, has an anti-inflammatory effect, improves overall well-being).

- if there are ulcers on the tongue, then they need to be treated with Lugol or Rotocan (at any pharmacy). Moisten a cotton swab with the medicine and treat mouth ulcers. You can use a strong solution of potassium permanganate. The dental gel “Zubastic” (for cats and dogs) has proven itself well; it is made on the basis of propolis, extracts of chamomile, sage and oak bark. It disinfects well, relieves inflammation, relieves pain and heals damaged oral mucosa well. The oral cavity should be treated 5-6 times a day. The use of antibacterial spray Monclavit (3 times a day) or Terramycin (1-2 times a day) is indicated. After treating the ulcers, do not feed or drink the animal for 30 minutes. 3. Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa in animals, differing in the localization of the inflammatory process (damage to the tongue, gums, lips, palate).
The causes of stomatitis are different: mechanical trauma (bones with sharp edges), thermal damage (eating hot or cold food); in old animals it occurs due to caries and abundant deposits of tartar. Stomatitis can be caused by fungal, bacterial and viral infections, allergic diseases, or contact with the oral mucosa of chemicals. Stomatitis often develops with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, toxic lesions of the body, blood diseases, and can occur in immunodeficiency states. The first sign is poor appetite. The cat may not eat well, in more severe cases, even refuse to eat, and sometimes not even drink. Because a white-brown coating appears on the tongue, wounds, ulcers form, and the gums become inflamed. A cat affected by stomatitis has bad breath and excessive salivation.

At the first suspicion of stomatitis, it is necessary to examine the cat’s oral cavity. If there are small pits or depressions on the tongue, then these are ulcers. With stomatitis, the temperature rises. Lymph nodes may be enlarged.

- antibiotic treatment, for example Bicillin-3 (according to the scheme above) - antifungal agents (Anandin - injection, Nystatin - 1/4 tablet 2 times a day) - antiallergic drugs, for example "suprastin" 0.2 ml p. k (once a day) - fosprenil + maxidin and gamavit (according to the scheme above) or arbidol (for children) 1/2 table. 2 times a day. - treatment of the oral cavity: The use of antibacterial spray Monclavit (3-4 times a day) or Terramycin (1-2 times a day) is indicated. - You can lubricate the oral cavity with Lugol applied to a cotton swab or finger. After treatment, do not let the cat drink for half an hour. After this time has passed, ensure you drink plenty of fluids, as Lugol dries out your mouth. Also, instead of Lugol, you can use a solution of potassium permanganate, a solution of furatsilin 0.05%, a solution of chlorhexidine 0.05%, a decoction of oak bark, chamomile flowers, and sage.

Ulcers are lubricated with iodine-glycerin and Metragil Denta gel. Sea buckthorn or rosehip oil is successfully used to heal and restore the mucous membrane.

- a diet is prescribed, easily digestible food: boiled chicken with rice (mashed, pureed), broth, liquid porridge - all only warm.

4. If the cat has an appetite, but has loose stools several times a day. Perhaps the food you are feeding is not of very high quality or it is simply not suitable for your pet. Try changing the food, and to eliminate indigestion, you can give your cat Hilak-Forte for several days (4-5 drops diluted with cool boiled water in a tablespoon) and pour into the mouth from a syringe (2 ml) during meals or immediately after it (2 times a day). Or you can serve Linex (powder in capsules). To do this, you need to open the capsule and pour about 1/4 of the contents onto the cat’s tongue (no need to drink it down). It is also given 2 times a day (can be before meals). The veterinary drug Bifitrilak is added to food and is used for the treatment and prevention of dysbiosis.

5. If your pet has foul-smelling diarrhea (with mucus or blood), poor appetite and weakness, because... the body is dehydrated. Perhaps the cat has worms, or maybe a bunch of protozoa. It is imperative to submit a stool test to a laboratory for examination and diagnosis. If the animal is in an exhausted state, then expelling parasites from the body will be very dangerous, because... dying, they will release toxins into the blood, which can worsen the already deplorable condition of the animal. First you need to boost your immunity:

- be sure to take Gamavit injections (can be replaced with the human drug Cyanocobalamin, this is vitamin B12). The drugs are taken 2 times a day, for 5-6 days. Gamavit 0.3-0.5 ml subcutaneously (kitten) and 0.5-1 ml (adult cat). Cyanocobalamin 0.2-0.3 ml (kitten) and 0.5-0.6 ml (adult cat). - give Arbidol for children for several days (according to the scheme above), if there is no vomiting. - be sure to give Levomycetin (table), kitten 1/8 part, cat 1/6 part of the tablet (1-2 times a day), it is given like this - the required part of the tablet is placed further on the root of the tongue and a little boiled water is immediately poured from the syringe. Levomycetin is very bitter, it should not be given crushed into powder! Again, the tablet can be given if there is no vomiting. - in case of dehydration, you need to give injections of Saline solution (sodium chloride), glucose 5%, ascorbic acid. You can add 0.1-0.2 dexamethasone to the cocktail (once). We need to prepare a cocktail of these drugs. Draw into a 5 ml syringe - 0.3 - 0.5 ml ascorbic acid, 1-1.5 ml glucose 5%, preferably 0.1-0.2 ml dexamethasone (once) and + saline, approximately 3 ml . This cocktail is made at the withers under the skin (1-2 times a day). Another 5 ml of saline solution (without additives) is made after the cocktail.

— to restore normal liver function, it is worth administering Karsil (table) or the veterinary drug Hepatovet (liquid). Karsil is given 2-3 times a day, 1/6 tablet. kitten and 1/4 cat. Hepatovet is given from a syringe (dosage according to instructions).

As soon as the cat’s appetite is restored and stool returns to normal, a week after this, the animal must be dewormed:

- either with the drug prescribed to you by the doctor or you can buy a broad-spectrum drug at the veterinary pharmacy yourself (Dirofen, Cestal Ket, Drontal Plus, etc.). Anthelmintic drugs are available in tablet form, in paste form and in the form of a liquid suspension. It is also available in the form of drops on the withers (for those animals for whom putting something in their mouth is like performing a feat). A cat should be dewormed 2 times a year and 10 days before vaccination (pregnant women are not allowed). 6. Sulfadimethoxine (table) or better Trichopolum (table) helps well against protozoa, 1/8-1/6 tablet for a kitten, 1/4 tablet for a cat. (1 time a day, for 3-5 days). It is enough to drive out protozoa once a year (not for pregnant women).

7. If your cat often sits down on the potty and sits for a long time, check what color the urine is. If it is found that the urine is concentrated and dark brown in color, and the volume of urine excreted is very small, then this is a symptom of urolithiasis. And this is a very dangerous disease (more common in cats, especially castrated cats, but it also happens in cats). As a rule, this disease can be caused by feeding cheap dry food (such as Kitty ket, Whiskas, Friskies, Darling, etc.). By saving on quality food, we ruin our pets, not realizing that treatment will cost much more. The possibility of a genetic predisposition to this disease cannot be ruled out.

Your first aid may come in handy.

— to facilitate urine excretion, you need to start injecting “Papaverine” 0.5 - 0.7 ml IM or SC (2 times a day). Be sure to give Canephron (person) 1/2 tablet 2 times a day. — it’s very good to serve “Madder tincture” (dilute 1/4 of the tablet in 10 ml of warm boiling water and drink from a 5 ml syringe 2 times a day). "Cyston" (human) 1/2 tablet. 2 times a day. At the veterinary pharmacy, buy the following medications: “Cat Erwin” liquid (herbal extract), give 2.5 ml 2 times a day, tablets from the Phytoelite “Healthy Kidneys” series, 1 tablet 3 times a day, “Kantaren” 1 tablet per day.

— to relieve inflammation, it is good to take Furagin (human tablet) 1/2 tablet 2 times a day (5-7 days). - as soon as the natural excretion of urine is normalized, you can start giving the cat a decoction of herbs that have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties (kidney tea, orthosiphon leaf, lingonberry leaf, etc.)

— buy at a veterinary pharmacy (as prescribed by a doctor) special food for the treatment and prevention of urolithiasis (dry or wet food) — exclude cheap dry food from the cat’s diet In any case, a trip to the veterinarian should not be delayed in order to eliminate complications and not lead your pet to surgery . 8. If a cat often walks around small and there are droplets of blood in the urine, it may have caught a cold, this disease is called Cystitis. - be sure to give Canephron (person) 1/2 tablet 2 times a day - also Cyston (table) 1/4 tablet (kitten) and 1/2 tablet (adult cat) - Furagin (table) 1/4 for a kitten and 1/2 cat. — Veterinary medications: Stop cystitis (tablet, drops), Healthy kidneys (tablet), also Cat Erwin (liquid). Medicines are given 2 times a day, for 5-7 days. — you can connect injections of Fosprenil and Gamavit, 0.5 ml for a kitten, 1 ml for a cat (at the withers s.c.) 1 time per day (3-5 days).

9. If your pet’s eyes are inflamed, red or slightly sticky, you can drip eye drops Iris, Diamond Eyes (vet) or Levomycetin (human), Floxal (human for mycoplasmosis). Perhaps a speck got into the eye and the cat rubbed it with its paw; perhaps this is a mild manifestation of a viral or bacterial infection. If the cat otherwise feels normal, then it is enough for her to put eye drops in her eyes (3-4 times a day) for several days. If the cat feels unwell (for example, sneezes, sniffles, eats poorly, does not play, constantly sleeps, etc.), then you need to see a doctor. Diseases such as staphylococcus, mycoplasmosis or chlamydia are also accompanied by discharge from the eyes.

10. Ear mites - Otodectosis in cats can be identified by the unusual behavior of the pet. The appearance of mites causes severe itching, so cats begin to scratch their heads intensely and shake their heads. This is the first sign of the onset of the disease. Examine your pet's ear canal. If there is a disease, it fills with a dark brown mass similar to coffee grounds. The disease is not seasonal. The cause may be communication with a sick individual. Ear mites are often observed in places where there are large concentrations of animals. For example, to participate in cat shows, it is necessary to confirm the absence of Otodectes cynotis. Kittens can get otodectosis from an infected mother.

Ticks usually attack young cats, but older cats can also get sick. Otodectes is a disease caused by ear mites Otodectes cynotis. Parasites attack the external auditory system of cats and dogs, where they feed on particles of skin and hair.

Only a veterinarian can make a final diagnosis, because similar symptoms can accompany other diseases of the ear canal. For an accurate diagnosis, a skin scraping is made from the inner surface of the ear and examined under a microscope - the diagnosis will be confirmed if mites are found in the scraping. How is ear scabies treated? First, you need to thoroughly clean the animal’s ear from secretions, crusts and scales - rinse or wipe with a solution of chlorhexidine or other antiseptic. After cleaning, ear mites in cats are removed using acaricides. The specific drug, form and concentration will be prescribed by the veterinarian. For example - Tsipam, Bars, Dekta, Otoferonol Gold, Amitrazine, Anandin Plus, etc. You need to drop 3-4 drops of an acaricidal agent into the auricle, massage the auricle (folding it in half) so that the drops go as deep into the ear as possible. Then, using cotton swabs (lubricated with Vaseline or aversectin ointment), carefully clean the brown exudate from the auricle (do not insert the swabs too deep so as not to damage the eardrum). Ear drops should be instilled once every 3-5 days until the parasites completely disappear. It is necessary to clean the ears from discharge with cotton swabs every day (once a day). After successful treatment, it is necessary to carry out prophylaxis, instill the remedy once a month, and then once every 3 months.

11. Ringworm in cats is probably the most famous cat disease, everyone has heard about it. This is a contagious fungal disease that affects the skin and hair. In fact, the term “ringworm” refers to two types of diseases: microsporia and trichophytosis. They were combined under a common name due to their similar clinical manifestations. More often, cats get lichen during the summer season, actively coming into contact with neighboring animals and rodents (which are carriers of microsporia). Infection occurs both through direct contact with an infected animal and through hygiene items, care items, toys, bedding and rugs). But even if your cat does not go outside, she has the opportunity to become infected with this disease, because you can bring fungal spores home on your clothes and shoes. It is even more necessary to take preventive measures if the cat attends exhibitions or goes outside and comes into contact with other animals. Microsporia disease can be prevented. Currently, there are vaccines that protect animals from lichen, for example Vakderm-F. The vaccination is done twice with an interval of 10-14 days. Immunity is formed 25-30 days after the second injection of the vaccine and lasts at least 12 months. The clinical manifestation of microsporia in cats is very diverse. The lesions are located on the top of the head, near the ears, at the base of the tail, on the limbs, etc. Reddened areas of baldness and flaking, the presence of inflammatory secretions, small and large crusts from which healthy and diseased hairs stick out are the main clinical signs of microsporia in cats. In kittens, microsporia is much more acute than in adult cats, in which skin lesions are less pronounced and sometimes completely invisible. Kittens are susceptible to complete baldness with peeling on the surface of the body. The appearance of bald patches on the edges of the ears or on the face and paws of a kitten is an alarm signal, that is, they indicate the presence of a microsporium infection. An accurate diagnosis can only be made using fluorescent analysis (Wood's lamp), the spores glow green, and laboratory seeding of the fungus for microscopy (skin scrapings are taken).

A sick cat or kitten should be immediately isolated in a separate room. It is necessary to avoid close contact with her, do not allow her to lie on upholstered furniture or carpets. Strictly observe the rules of personal hygiene. Prohibit children from playing with a sick cat! If you or your child have already become infected, do not delay qualified treatment. You should not cover up sores that make you suspicious with brilliant green or iodine - this will not help. Anyway, within 5-7 days after interacting with an infected animal, your baby will show the first signs of the disease: one or two hyperemic (reddened) lesions, with clearly defined boundaries. Later, if treatment is not started, the entire body will be covered with round or oval lesions. Such skin lesions can be quickly cured with Fungin (veterinary drug).

Previously, domestic animals sick with microsporia were simply euthanized. Currently, this disease can be successfully cured, especially if treatment is started on time. The Vakderm-F, Polivac, Polivac-TM and Microderm vaccines have proven themselves well. To treat microsporia, 3 injections are given with an interval of 10 days. Injections are made into the muscle of the hind limb, in doses according to the instructions.

After the first injection, there is an exacerbation, and even more foci of inflammation appear on the skin. After the second injection, hairs begin to emerge at the site of the affected areas of the skin. After the third injection, the active process of new hair growth occurs, new lesions no longer appear. All this time, it is necessary to treat the affected areas with medicinal preparations - the fungus drug (liquid, good for both animals and people) or Yam ointment. The drug is applied directly to the sore, covering an area of ​​healthy skin near it (3-5 ml), the drug is applied from the periphery to the center.

For internal use to suppress the proliferation of fungi in a cat or kitten, use a special (human) antibiotic - “Griseofulvin”, approximately 1/8 of the tablet. kitten and 1/6 tab. adult cat (simultaneous use of griseofulvin and specific vaccines is not recommended). The human drug “Rumikoz” (in capsules filled with granules in the form of semolina) is a good cure for fungal infections. From the capsule you need to pour approximately 20-30 granules onto a dry teaspoon (dose for a kitten from 1 to 3 months) and 30-40 granules (dose for an adult cat). “Rumicosis” is given once a day, immediately after meals, for 14 days. To do this, you need to pour the drug from a teaspoon into the cat’s mouth and pour a little water from the syringe so that all the granules are swallowed. Lesions on the skin are well treated with human antifungal ointment "Triderm" or "Akriderm-GK" (inflammation is eliminated and itching is relieved). Throughout the treatment, the cat needs maintenance therapy: injections of Gamavit and Fosprenil 0.5 ml for a kitten and 1 ml for an adult cat (once a day, 3 days a week). To support the liver, “Hepatovet” (liquid suspension) is a veterinary drug or “Karsil” for humans. table (1/8 tablet for a kitten and 1/4 tablet for an adult cat) 1 time per day, throughout the entire treatment. The place where the sick cat is kept and all objects with which it came into contact must be thoroughly disinfected. It is better to destroy (burn) low-value items. Disinfection can be carried out with a 3% aqueous solution of chloramine; it is advisable to quartz the room. Spores can persist indoors for 1 year or more. Therefore, pets will need to be vaccinated against microsporia every six months for 2 years. And periodically disinfect the apartment with a quartz lamp.

12. If you were careless in purchasing a kitten or an adult cat at the Poultry Market, then there is a high probability that your pet will become ill with any viral disease within 3-14 days after purchase (calicivirus, panleukopenia “distemper”, rhinotracheitis, coronavirus, etc. .). Symptoms such as: refusal to eat, accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, bad breath, ulcers on the tongue, lameness; sneezing, noisy or difficult breathing, discharge from the nose and eyes, etc. In this case, the count is no longer in hours, but in minutes!

If it is not possible to immediately see a doctor, then you need to start acting according to the following scheme: - antiviral drugs in the form of Fosprenil and Maxidin injections + Arbidol tablets (for children) - antibiotic Bicillin-3 or Amoxicillin (veterinary drug) - Vitafel-S serum - Gamavit injections + cocktail ( sodium chloride, glucose 5%, ascorbic acid, dexamethasone). If a cat has “distemper” (panlekopenia), then Anandin (an antiviral drug) must be added to the above drugs, 0.2 - 0.3 ml is given to a kitten and 0.5 - 0.6 ml to an adult cat (once a day within 5-6 days) either subcutaneously or intramuscularly. For the treatment regimen for viral diseases, see point No. 2. This treatment regimen is not a panacea for all diseases - it is just an “ambulance” that will increase your pet’s chances of recovery!

The symptoms of some viral diseases are often similar, so only a veterinarian can make a more accurate diagnosis!

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