Health and Care

Health & Care for Your Cat

Cats can be very complex creatures. They have illnesses that can be unique to their species and are incredibly deft at masking symptoms when they don’t feel well. This section is designed to help you familiarize yourself with common feline health issues, symptoms that may signal the need for a vet visit, and other tips to help keep your kitty family as healthy and happy as possible.

Common Health Conditions

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a contagious RNA retrovirus that can dramatically compromise a cat’s immune system and cause secondary health problems, including early death. Because of this, it is crucial that any new cat entering a household be tested for the virus. At Tenth Life, every cat is tested for this virus upon admission and prior to adoption.

How is FeLV transmitted?

FeLV only affects cats, not humans or other species. It spreads through bodily fluids like saliva, nasal fluid, urine, feces, and blood. Transmission often occurs through bite wounds and mutual grooming. Less frequently, it is transmitted via shared litter boxes, food, and water dishes. Infected mothers can also pass FeLV to kittens during pregnancy or nursing. Cats at greatest risk include those living with infected cats, outdoor cats, and kittens with immature immune systems. Thankfully, FeLV does not survive long outside the body, so prolonged close contact is the main source of transmission.

How common is FeLV?

According to Cornell Feline Health Center, approximately 2-3% of cats in the United States are infected with Feline Leukemia Virus. Those percentages are higher (approximately 13%) for the very sick, very young, or those at high risk for infection.

How can I find out if my cat has FeLV?

A simple blood test through your veterinarian can determine if your cat is positive for Feline Leukemia Virus. Contact your veterinarian for more information.

Which cats are at the greatest risk for infection?

Kitties with the highest risk are those who are repeatedly exposed to already-infected cats. This can include cats living with FeLV-positive cats, cats allowed outdoors, and kittens born to infected mothers. Kittens are incredibly susceptible to the virus, but as they grow and mature, their ability to resist the virus grows with them.

What are some symptoms of the virus?

According to Cornell, at the earliest stage of infection, many cats exhibit no symptoms whatsoever. Over time, a cat may deteriorate and begin showing signs such as:

Reproductive failure in unspayed females
Loss of appetite
Slow, progressive weight loss
Poor coat condition
Enlarged lymph nodes (FeLV is the leading cause of cancer in cats)
Prolonged fever
Pale gums and other mucous membranes
Inflammation of gums (gingivitis) and mouth (stomatitis)
Skin, bladder, and upper respiratory infections
Persistent diarrhea
Seizures, behavior changes, and other neurological disorders
A variety of eye conditions

How can I prevent my cat from becoming infected?

The only fail-proof way to prevent your cat from contracting FeLV is not allowing him or her to be exposed to it.

Keep your cat indoors. Not only will you prevent the contraction of Feline Leukemia Virus but also the exposure to parasites, other chronic conditions, and the many dangers outside holds like cars, dogs, and unkind humans.
Be sure to bring only FeLV-negative cats into your home.
If you do have FeLV-positive cats at home, house them completely separately from those who are negative for the virus. Do not allow them to share food/water dishes, litter boxes, or linens.
Consider vaccinating your cats against FeLV.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

Like Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), FIV is a contagious retrovirus that undermines a cat’s immune system and health, making the cat more susceptible to secondary infections. However, FIV differs from FeLV in several ways, the most significant being a longer life span in most cases.

How is FIV transmitted?

Unlike FeLV, FIV is not transmitted through casual contact but rather through deep bite wounds. This is another great reason to keep your cats indoors! According to Cornell Feline Health Center, households with cats who get along well and do not fight carry a very low risk for transmission of FIV. Rarely, a kitten will acquire FIV from a virus-positive mother. In these cases, infection occurs during passage through the birth canal or via mother’s milk. Please be aware, however, that young kittens may test positive falsely due to maternal antibodies. Typically, these antibodies will clear by six months of age. You can learn more about this possibility via IDEXX, a business that provides FIV and FeLV tests to veterinarians.

How common is FIV?

According to Cornell, FIV is found in 1.5-3% of cats in the United States. This rate increases dramatically for cats who are sick or at a high risk for infection.

How can I find out if my cat has FIV?

A simple blood test conducted by your veterinarian can determine whether or not your cat is positive for FIV.

Which cats are at the greatest risk for infection?

Aggressive, free-roaming males make up the largest portion of FIV-positive cats. Therefore, keeping your cat indoors ensures his or her health and safety. If you adopt or find a new cat you would like to add to your household, be sure to have him or her tested for FIV before slowly integrating the new member into your household. An FIV vaccine does exist, but it is not 100% effective. Speak with your veterinarian about this option.

What are some symptoms of the virus?

Soon after infection, it is possible to see enlarged lymph nodes, but more often than not, the virus goes undetected for some time. Later on, the infected cat may experience steadily declining health or recurrent infection or illness, alternating with periods of relatively good health. Sometimes, it takes years for the virus to manifest itself in the cat’s body. Other common signs that FIV has taken hold:

Enlarged lymph nodes
Persistent fever
Anemia
Weight loss
Poor coat condition
Inappetence
Diarrhea
Conjunctivitis (inflammation or irritation of the eye)
Inflammation of gums (gingivitis) or mouth (stomatitis)
Dental disease
Skin irritation or hair loss
Wounds that won’t heal
Sneezing
Ocular or nasal discharge
Frequent or inappropriate urination
Change in behavior

How can I prevent my cat from becoming infected?

The best possible prevention is keeping your cat indoors and limiting his or her exposure to cats with FIV. As stated earlier, harmonious households where FIV-positive and -negative cats coexist, risk is very low for transmission. However, introducing a new cat should be done so very cautiously. If any signs of aggression are present, it is best to keep cats with and without the virus separate from one another.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a complex and often misunderstood disease affecting cats. It poses significant challenges for cat owners and veterinarians alike. Caused by certain strains of the feline coronavirus (FCoV), FIP can lead to severe health issues.

How is FIP transmitted?

FIP arises from a mutation of feline coronavirus. While many cats are exposed to FCoV, only a small percentage develop FIP. The virus can spread through feces, and environments with multiple cats, such as shelters or catteries, can increase the risk of transmission.

What are the types and symptoms of FIP?

FIP presents in two primary forms:

Wet (Effusive) FIP: This form is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in body cavities, particularly the abdomen and chest. Symptoms may include abdominal swelling, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.
Dry (Non-effusive) FIP: This form is less common and does not involve fluid accumulation. Instead, it affects specific organs, leading to symptoms such as fever, weight loss, jaundice, and neurological signs.

Symptoms of FIP:

The symptoms of FIP can vary widely depending on the form and progression of the disease. Common signs include:

Loss of appetite
Fever that does not respond to treatment
Weight loss
Lethargy
Abdominal swelling (wet FIP)
Respiratory distress (wet FIP)
Neurological symptoms (dry FIP)

How can I find out if my cat has FIP?

Diagnosing FIP can be challenging due to the overlapping symptoms with other feline diseases. Vets typically use a combination of:

Clinical signs and history
Blood tests to check for anemia and elevated protein levels
Analysis of abdominal or chest fluid (for wet FIP)
Imaging techniques like X-rays or ultrasounds

A definitive diagnosis may require a biopsy of affected tissues.

What are the treatment options for FIP?

Historically, FIP was deemed untreatable, but recent advancements have led to new therapeutic options. Antiviral medications, such as GS-441524 and other similar compounds, have shown promise in clinical trials, leading to improved outcomes for affected cats.

Supportive Care: This includes hydration, nutritional support, and management of secondary infections.
New Treatments: As research progresses, more effective treatments may become available. Always consult a veterinarian for the latest options.

How can I prevent my cat from becoming infected?

Preventing FIP primarily revolves around managing feline coronavirus exposure. Here are some strategies:

Hygiene: Maintain clean litter boxes and living environments to reduce the risk of virus spread.
Limit Stress: Stress can trigger viral mutations, so providing a stable environment is crucial, especially in multi-cat households.
Vaccination: While a vaccine for feline coronavirus exists, its effectiveness against FIP is still debated. Consult your vet for recommendations.

What is the prognosis for a cat with FIP?

With increasing research and advancements in treatment, the outlook for cats diagnosed with FIP is gradually improving. Early detection, supportive care, and innovative therapies offer hope for affected cats. If you suspect your cat may be showing symptoms of FIP, seeking veterinary advice promptly is essential.

Cerebellar Hypoplasia (CH)

Cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) is a widely misunderstood health condition. Basically, CH is the underdevelopment of a cat’s cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination. Cats with CH have mild to profound motor coordination issues.

Is CH contagious? How does a cat contract the condition?

No, cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) is not contagious. It most often develops during pregnancy if the mother contracts the distemper (panleukopenia) virus. CH may also result from trauma, malnutrition, or illness while a kitten is still in the womb. Cats with cerebellar hypoplasia are completely safe to be around humans and other animals. In cats with CH, the condition remains stable and will not progress or worsen over time.

What are the symptoms of cerebellar hypoplasia?

A cat may fall over for no visible reason
High stepping, “bicycle gait”, prancing style of walking, or walking loudly
Lack of balance
Jerky movements, lack of grace
Difficulty climbing stairs and/or jumping up
Some with profound CH may have trouble walking more than a few steps before falling
Tremors, particularly when focusing on something
Pecking-style of eating
Overall wobbly nature

How can I care for a cat with CH?

Sadly, cats with cerebellar hypoplasia are often euthanized due to a lack of understanding of their condition. Many people mistakenly think the cat is in pain or is unhappy. Conversely, these cats have a normal life expectancy and are very affectionate, sweet, and loving. Care for them, depending on the severity of their condition, can be quite simple or more intensive:

Spayed/neuter and vaccinate, just as you would for a typical cat
Keep indoors
Never declaw
Be aware that more accidents can happen with these cats. Therefore, carpeting is a preferred surface for their home. Also, homes without steps may be necessary, depending on the severity of the cat’s CH.
Provide a litter box with high sides and a low entry. This enables the cat to enter with ease and then use the high sides to brace himself while he eliminates.
Occasional baths after accidents
Raised food/water dishes
Add bumpers to make sharp corners and furniture less treacherous

For more information and support, visit the CH Kitty Club.

Feline Herpes Virus (FHV)

FHV is a member of the Herpesviridae family and is a DNA virus specifically affecting domestic cats. The virus primarily targets the upper respiratory tract and ocular tissues, leading to a range of health symptoms. Once infected, cats may carry the virus for life, with periodic reactivations, particularly during times of stress or illness.

How is FHV transmitted?

Feline Herpes Virus (FHV), also known as Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR), is a common and highly contagious virus affecting cats. It is one of the primary causes of respiratory infections in felines and poses significant health risks, especially to young, unvaccinated, or immunocompromised cats.

What are the symptoms of FHV?

The clinical signs of FHV can vary from mild to severe and typically include:

Respiratory Issues: Sneezing, nasal congestion, and discharge (clear or purulent).
Ocular Symptoms: Conjunctivitis, watery eyes, and corneal ulcers.
Fever: Elevated body temperature, often leading to lethargy.
Loss of Appetite: A decrease in food intake due to discomfort.
Coughing: Less common, but may occur in severe cases.

Symptoms can appear suddenly and typically last for 1-3 weeks, but some cats may experience recurrent episodes.

How can I find out if my cat has FHV?

Diagnosing FHV usually involves a combination of clinical signs and veterinary assessment. Vets may conduct:

Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can confirm the presence of the virus.
Physical Examination: Assessing respiratory and ocular health.
Medical History: Understanding the cat’s background, including vaccination status and exposure to other cats.

How do you treat cats with FHV?

While there is no cure for FHV, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve the cat’s quality of life:

Topical Treatments: For ocular issues, topical antiviral medications or lubricants may be recommended.
Supportive Care: Providing a warm, comfortable environment, ensuring hydration, and encouraging food intake.
Antiviral Medications: In severe cases, medications like famciclovir may be prescribed.
Antibiotics: If secondary bacterial infections occur, antibiotics may be necessary.
Nasal Decongestants: To help alleviate breathing difficulties.

How can I prevent my cat from becoming infected?

Preventing FHV primarily revolves around vaccination and reducing stress in the cat’s environment:

Vaccination: The FHV vaccine is typically included in the core feline vaccination schedule. Regular vaccinations help reduce the severity of the disease.
Hygiene: Maintaining cleanliness in living areas and litter boxes can reduce transmission risks.
Stress Reduction: Minimizing stressors, such as changes in environment or social interactions, can help prevent virus reactivation.

Feline Herpes Virus is a significant health concern for cats, leading to respiratory and ocular issues. Understanding the symptoms and seeking prompt veterinary care is essential for managing the disease effectively. With appropriate treatment and preventive measures, many cats can lead healthy, fulfilling lives despite being carriers of the virus. If you suspect your cat is showing symptoms of FHV, consult your veterinarian for guidance and care.

Common Parasites in Cats

Cats are susceptible to various parasites that can affect their health and well-being. Understanding these parasites, their symptoms, and how to prevent and treat infestations is crucial for every cat owner. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper hygiene, and preventive measures are crucial in keeping your feline friend healthy and parasite-free.

Fleas

Fleas are among the most common external parasites affecting cats. These small, wingless insects feed on the blood of their hosts and can cause significant discomfort.

Symptoms:

Itching and scratching
Red or irritated skin
Flea dirt (small black specks) in fur
Hair loss or hot spots

Prevention and Treatment:

Regular use of flea prevention products (topical treatments, collars, oral medications).
Vacuuming regularly and washing bedding to eliminate flea eggs and larvae.
Consulting a veterinarian for appropriate flea control measures.

Ticks

Ticks are external parasites that attach to a cat’s skin to feed on blood. They can transmit various diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.

Symptoms:

Visible ticks on the skin
Redness or irritation around the bite area
Lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite (in cases of tick-borne diseases)

Prevention and Treatment:

Use tick prevention products.
Regularly check your cat for ticks, especially after outdoor activities.
Remove ticks promptly with proper tools; consult a vet if any illness symptoms arise.

Worms

Intestinal worms are internal parasites that can cause gastrointestinal issues in cats. The most common types are roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms.

Symptoms:

Weight loss despite a good appetite
Vomiting or diarrhea
Abdominal bloating
Visible worms in feces or around the anus (particularly with tapeworms)

Prevention and Treatment:

Consulting a veterinarian for fecal examinations and appropriate deworming treatments.
Regular deworming, especially for kittens and outdoor cats.
Maintaining good hygiene and feeding practices.

Giardia

Giardia is a microscopic protozoan that can cause gastrointestinal distress in cats. It is transmitted through contaminated water or feces.

Symptoms:

Diarrhea (often greasy and foul-smelling)
Vomiting
Weight loss
Lethargy

Prevention and Treatment:

Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options, which may include specific medications.
Ensure access to clean water and proper sanitation.

Ear Mites

Ear mites are tiny parasites that live in a cat’s ear canal and cause irritation and discomfort. They are highly contagious among cats.

Symptoms:

Scratching or shaking of the head
Dark, waxy discharge from the ears
Foul odor from the ears
Inflammation or redness in the ear canal

Prevention and Treatment:

Regular ear cleaning and inspections.
Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment, which may include topical medications.

Coccidia

Coccidia are microscopic parasites that can infect a cat’s intestines. They are more common in young or stressed cats.

Symptoms:

Diarrhea (which may be severe)
Dehydration
Weight loss
Lethargy

Prevention and Treatment:

Maintain proper hygiene and sanitation in living areas.
Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options, which may include specific medications.

Over-Grooming

Sometimes, kitties will bathe themselves to the point of removing their own fur. Some even make themselves bleed from obsessive grooming. Over-grooming is almost always caused by either stress or an underlying medical issue.

How do I help my cat?

This issue should not be ignored! Your first line of defense is a visit to the veterinarian, to rule out any medical causes.

Whether the cause is medical or behavioral, it is important to take care of it as soon as possible, as excessive grooming can become a habit and then very difficult to stop. Also, open sores can become infected, causing even greater problems for you and your cat.

Medical causes

Your first line of defense is a visit to the veterinarian, to rule out any medical causes. On the medical and health side of things, your cat may be dealing with fleas or skin parasites, bacterial infection, fungal infection (like ringworm), allergies, or food sensitivities. Consult your vet to figure out if any of these causes are present. The vet may ask you to try different foods, medications or treatments to isolate the cause of your cat’s obsessive behavior. Keep in mind that some medications (for other conditions) can have a side-effect of causing cats to obsessively groom.

Behavioral causes

If the problem is determined by you and your vet to be behaviorally motivated, it is essential to figure out what is triggering the obsessive behavior, since it is merely a symptom of the true problem. It is usually stress-related.

Did you change your work schedule?
Is there a new addition (dog, cat, baby, family member, etc.) to your household?
Was there a death of a human or animal companion?

To help a stressed-out cat, provide a stable and predictable environment and schedule, as cats are creatures of habit and don’t like change.

Other potential stressors

Is another cat (or other creature) in the household bothering him? This is especially worrisome if the antagonism occurs while the cat is trying to eat or use the litter box. Try to create a “safe zone” for this cat or feed him separately from the others if he nervously looks around while eating.
Provide regular, scheduled play sessions (see our article on Play Therapy). Play is a huge stress-reliever for cats and should be a part of their daily routine. Two or more sessions of fifteen minutes each daily should be the minimum.
Keep your own schedule (work, travel, etc.) as consistent as you possibly can.

Toxic Plants

If you think your cat (or dog) may have ingested a poisonous substance, contact your local vet, animal emergency room, or the ASPCA’s emergency poison hotline directly at 1-888-426-4435. The ASPCA has provided a great searchable list of plants that may be toxic for your pets. Please check your home for these plants. If you find them, give them to a friend, or place them in a place or room where your cat cannot reach them

Most Common Poisonous Houseplants

Philodendron
Ficus
Snake Plant
Schefflera
Croton
Aloe Vera
Poinsettia
Corn Plant

Ivy
Norfolk Pine
Peace Lily
Antherium
Bleeding Heart
Chinese Evergreen
Elephant Ear