Cats are experts to keep secrets – especially with regard to their health. In contrast to dogs that tend to resign, if they talk, cats have a built -in instinct to hide pain or diseases. In the wild, the weakness could make it susceptible to predators, and this survival mechanism is still deep.
Unfortunately, this means that some serious health risks can remain unnoticed until they become critical. Therefore it is so important to be aware of it The subtle signs that something is not correct. Here are five silent health risks that could affect your cat without realizing it.
A cat that rests in a cozy place – diseases can be easy to overlook until it is too late.
1. Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
A slowly moving but serious threat
Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common diseases in older cats. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from the bloodstream, and when they begin to fail, toxins build in the body. Since CKD gradually progresses, the symptoms often only occur until Significant damage has already occurred.
Why is it silent: Of course, cats adapt to gradual changes. Even if your kidneys do not work well, you will continue as if nothing is wrong. Increased thirst and urination – really warning signs – are often more likely to be dismissed as minor quirks than symptoms of an illness.
Signs for:
- Drink more water than usual
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss
- lethargy
- Bad breath with a urine-like smell
What you can do: Regular veterinary examinations with Blood and urine tests a kidney disease can catch early. Promotion of moisture by providing freshwater sources and feeding Moisturizing food (like wet cat food) can help support kidney function.
A cat drinking water – excessive thirst can be an early sign of kidney disease.
2. Tooth diseases
Painful, often and often overlooked
Cats do not show pain like people, and they will certainly not complain about toothache. Tooth diseases – plaque structure, gum infections and decay of tooth – are one of the most common health problems of cats. Leaved untreated, it can lead to it Chronic pain, infections and even organ damage as bacteria from the mouth spread through the bloodstream.
Why is it silent: Even with severe toothache, cats will continue to eat because their survival instincts tell them that they have to. They simply adapt by chewing on one side of their mouth or swallowing the whole thing from food, which makes it difficult for the owners to notice a problem.
Signs for:
- Bad breath
- Drooling (sometimes with blood)
- Difficulties to eat or prefer a side of the mouth
- Paws on the face
What you can do: Regular Dental examinations are crucial. If you brush your cat’s teeth (yes, it is possible with patience) and to feed dental diets, this can lead to serious problems. If your cat suddenly reluctantly eats or starts to drop food, a visit to the vet is okay.
A cat that sniffs on a toothbrush – only dental care can prevent serious health problems.
3. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
The silent threat that can cause sudden blindness
High blood pressure or high blood pressure is often associated with kidney diseases or HyperthyroidismBut it can also develop on its own. Untreated it can cause it irreversible damage to the heart, brain and eyes.
Why is it silent: There are often No visible symptoms In the early stages. Up to the time of time that appears appear, serious damage may have occurred – especially to the eyes, where high blood pressure can cause sudden blindness due to the detachment of the retina.
Signs for:
- Sudden blindness (against objects, extended pupils)
- Disorientation or confusion
- Seizures
- Nosebleed
What you can do: Ask your vet Check your cat’s blood pressure Regularly, especially if you are older or kidney diseases. If your cat’s view suddenly deteriorates, you are looking for veterinary care for emergencies – it could be a sign of hypertensive retinopathy caused by high blood pressure in the eyes.
A cat with wide, dilated pupils – a blindness with weak blindness can be a sign of high blood pressure.
4. Hyperthyroidism
If a big appetite is not a good thing
Hyperthyroidism is a common hormonal disorder in cats medium and older ages caused by an overactive thyroid gland. This accelerates the metabolism and makes it look as if affected cats are full of energy and in large form. However The accelerated metabolism sets the body enormouslyEspecially the heart.
Why is it silent: Cats with hyperthyroidism Eat more than usual, but continue to lose weightSo many owners assume that their cat is only “healthy”. In reality, The thyroid is located in Overdrive, burns through calories and emphasizes the organs.
Signs for:
- Weight loss despite a strong appetite
- Hyperactivity or unrest
- Vomit
- Increased thirst and urination
What you can do: Regular blood tests can diagnose hyperthyroidism at an early stage. The treatment options range from Medicines and prescription diets for radioactive iodine therapywhich can heal the condition permanently.
A lean, energetic older cat – weight loss Despite the well, can signal hyperthyroidism.
5. Hair blockade (especially in male cats)
A life -threatening emergency that can escalate quickly
Blockades occur when Crystals, mucus or inflammation hinder the urethraPrevent a cat from preventing urinating. That is One of the most dangerous cat emergenciesEspecially in male cats who have closer primeval ride. When left untreated, Toxins build up in the body, which leads to kidney failure and death within 24 to 48 hours.
Why is it silent: The early signs can be subtle– A cat may just appear uncomfortable, often visit the cat toilet or lick their genitals more than usual. But if the blockade deteriorates, the cat will be in it Extreme pain and do not urinate at all.
Signs for:
- Effort in the cat toilet with little or without urine edition
- Pain
- Common trips to the cat toilet
- Lethargy and hiding place
- Excessive licking of the genitals
What you can do: If you suspect a bloc, Search for animal care for animal care immediately. Make sure your cat stays hydratedFeed A moisturizing dietAnd Reduce stresshow fear can contribute to urine problems.
A cat in a cat toilet hurary problems can become life-threatening if it is ignored.
How to protect your cat
- Regular veterinary examinations (Annually for young cats, twice a year for older ones)
- Monitor changes in the small behavior– Subtle shifts in appetite, water absorption or activity levels can be early warning signs
- Offer a high -quality, balanced diet Support for kidney and urine health
- Promote promotion With several water sources or a cat water well
- Stay proactive– Cats will not tell you that they feel uncomfortable, so it is up to you to notice the information
If you stay vigilant and catch these conditions early, you can make sure that your cat lives a long, happy and healthy life.