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Cat Health Collection
Cat health articles. Browse our health collection for common and uncommon cat health issues.
Why are Annual Veterinary Visits Necessary?
Often we associate a trip to the veterinarian as something only required when your cat becomes unwell, however, is also important to remember that visiting your cat on an annual basis is equally important for your cat’s well-being and longevity.
Anemia (Low Red Blood Cell Count) in Cats
At a glanceAbout: Anemia is a reduction in the number of red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen around the body. Causes: There are many causes in two forms, regenerative or non-regenerative. Regenerative means the red blood cells are produced but they are not replaced fast enough. Non-regenerative occurs when there is inadequate production of red blood cells.
Symptoms: Lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, increased heart rate. Treatment: Address the underlying cause as well as providing supportive care which may include volume replacement, blood transfusions, hormones to stimulate red blood cell production and iron supplements. |
Addison’s Disease in Cats
About
Also known as hypoadrenocorticism, Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder, characterised by inadequate production of the steroid hormones cortisol and aldosterone, due to the destruction of the outer layers of the adrenal gland.
Acromegaly (Hypersomatotropism) in Cats
At a glanceAbout: Acromegaly is a hormone disorder, due to a hormone-secreting tumour of the pituitary gland. Symptoms:
Diagnosis: CT or MRI scan and blood work can diagnose the condition. Treatment: Surgery, radiation therapy or medications. Also called: Pituitary gigantism or hypersomatotropism. |
Cat in Pain – Signs of Pain in Cats
Cats are hardwired to hide signs of and discomfort, which serves a useful evolutionary purpose. Larger predatory animals seek out the young and the weak, therefore hiding signs of pain is a way to avoid being singled out as an easy target. As pet owners, however, a cat’s stoic nature can make it difficult for us to determine if our cat is in pain.
Joint Dislocation in Cats
The joints are where two or more bones meet, their function is to enable movement of the skeleton. There are several types of joints including:
Jaundice in Cats
What is jaundice?
Also known as icterus, jaundice is a condition characterised by a yellowing of the skin, whites of the eyes and mucous membranes (gums) due to increased levels of bilirubin in the blood.
Gastrointestinal Obstruction in Cats
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Panting in Cats: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
At a glancePanting is defined as open-mouthed breathing; it is not as common in cats as it is in dogs; however, the appearance is the same. It can be a sign that a cat is having difficulty breathing. Causes: Normal Not all panting indicates an underlying condition. It is normal for a cat to pant after playing when they are stressed and as a way to cool down. The latter can be an indicator that your cat is suffering from heat stress. Abnormal
Treatment: The goal of treatment is to find and address the underlying cause as well as provide supportive care to help the cat breathe. |