How Can I Tell if My Cat is Sick? 8 Signs to Watch For

Cats are masters of masking discomfort, and sometimes it’s not so obvious that they may not be feeling well. Since cats can’t communicate their symptoms verbally, understanding their body language and behavior is important in detecting illness early. Here are some signs your cat might be feeling under the weather:

1. Changes in Appetite: A sudden decrease or increase in appetite could signal an underlying health issue. Cats are notorious for being picky eaters, but a noticeable change in their eating habits warrants attention.


2. Lethargy: While cats are known for their love of lounging, excessive lethargy or a significant decrease in activity levels could indicate illness. If your cat seems unusually tired and disinterested in usual activities, it’s time to investigate further.


3. Vomiting or Diarrhea: Occasional hairballs or an upset stomach may not be cause for alarm, but persistent vomiting or diarrhea could indicate a more serious problem. Keep an eye on the frequency and consistency of these symptoms.


4. Changes in Bathroom Habits: Any deviations from your cat’s normal litter box routine, such as frequent urination, straining, or accidents outside the box, could be a sign of urinary tract issues or other health concerns.


5. Weight Loss or Gain: Fluctuations in weight without a change in diet or exercise regimen may indicate an underlying health problem. Monitor your cat’s body condition regularly to detect any significant changes.


6. Changes in Grooming Habits: Cats are meticulous groomers, so a lack of grooming or excessive grooming in specific areas could signal discomfort or pain. Pay attention to any bald patches, mats, rashes or discolorations or changes in the condition of your cat’s fur.


7. Changes in Vocalization: While some cats are naturally more vocal than others, any significant changes in meowing or vocalization patterns could be a sign of distress or discomfort.


8. Bad Breath or Oral Issues: Foul-smelling breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth or reluctance to eat hard food could indicate dental problems or other oral issues that require veterinary attention.