Recognizing the Symptoms of Illness in Cats
Cats are masters at hiding signs of distress, making it crucial for pet owners to be vigilant if something seems off. Understanding the symptoms of cat illness can help ensure that your feline gets timely care and treatment. Below, we outline common symptoms, causes, and when to seek veterinary help.
Common Symptoms of Illness in Cats
- Loss of Appetite: One of the first signs something may be wrong. Cats who avoid eating for more than 24 hours should be evaluated by a vet.
- Lethargy and Decreased Energy: A usually active cat that suddenly sleeps excessively or lacks interest in play may be ill.
- Vomiting and Diarrhea: These symptoms can indicate infection, dietary issues, or more severe conditions.
- Hiding: Cats often isolate themselves when feeling unwell or stressed.
- Shivering or Panting: These can be signs of fever or overheating.
- Behavioral Changes: Including irritability, avoidance of contact, or unusual aggression.
- Decreased Grooming: A lack of grooming could suggest fever, pain, or lethargy.
Fever and Hyperthermia in Cats
A cat’s normal body temperature ranges from 100.4°F to 102.5°F (38–39.2°C). If the temperature rises above this, it suggests a fever (hyperthermia), which is the body’s response to infection, inflammation, or injury.
- Causes of fever include:
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Immune-mediated diseases
- Medications
- Heatstroke or environmental heat
- Symptoms of fever:
- Lethargy and decreased appetite
- Shivering and panting
- Hiding and vomiting
- Rapid breathing
Fevers above 106°F can cause organ damage and are a veterinary emergency.
Hypothermia in Cats
When a cat’s temperature falls below 99°F (37.2°C), it can result in hypothermia.
- Causes include:
- Cold environments
- Wet exposure
- Prolonged anesthesia
- Shock or toxicity
- Symptoms of hypothermia:
- Cold skin and shivering
- Low energy or collapse
- Pale or bluish gums
- Slow breathing and heart rate
Treatment involves gentle warming using blankets or heated pads. Severe cases need immediate veterinary attention and possibly warmed IV fluids.
Checking Your Cat’s Temperature
- Use a pediatric rectal thermometer for accuracy, inserted about an inch into the rectum.
- Alternatively, use a digital ear thermometer in the horizontal ear canal.
- Do not force the thermometer—restrain the cat gently and request assistance if needed.
Heat Sensitivity and Behavioral Responses
Cats can only sweat through their paws and a few other hairless regions. To regulate body temperature, they use behaviors like:
- Seeking cool or shady areas
- Lying on cold surfaces
- Stretching out to lower body heat
- Grooming (evaporation of saliva cools the skin)
- Panting in excessive heat
Environmental Factors and the Thermoneutral Zone
Cats are most comfortable in environments between 86–101°F (30–38.3°C). When temperatures exceed 100°F or if they're in a hot car, cats are at risk for heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Precautions include:
- Never leave a cat in a parked car
- Provide shade and fresh water
- Protect paws from hot surfaces
Special Considerations
Some cats are more at risk during temperature extremes or when ill:
- Kittens and senior cats
- Overweight cats
- Cats with chronic illnesses
When to See a Vet
If your cat presents with any combination of these symptoms or maintains a temperature outside the normal range, veterinary help is essential. Avoid giving human medications, especially acetaminophen, which is toxic to cats.
Maintaining awareness of your cat's behavior and physiological signals is key to early detection and treatment of illnesses. Your prompt action can make a significant difference in their recovery and wellbeing.
