Fortunately, many of the once common feline diseases have been greatly reduced by vaccinations. Finding a great vet and keeping your cat’s vaccinations up to date is paramount for disease prevention.
Your cat should receive vaccinations for each of the following diseases:
- FVRCP Vaccination – this one vaccination covers Feline Viral Rhinotracheititis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia. All of these diseases are highly contagious for cats that have not received the vaccine.
- Feline AIDS – like human AIDS, the feline AIDS attacks the immune system and renders it virtually defenseless.
- Rabies – all mammals are susceptible to this viral infection that attacks the central nervous system.
- Feline Leukemia – highly contagious virus that is spread through external contact between cats. Cats often contract the disease and carry it for years with no symptoms, all the while spreading it to other cats. While not curable, the disease can be treated and allow cats to live a healthy life.
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis – spread through external contact, there is a wet and dry form of the disease. Symptoms include fluid buildup in the abdomen, loss of energy; in the dry version, eye lesions.
Regular checkups with your veterinarian and vaccinations will go a long way to preventing these diseases.
Under the Weather
Like humans, cats become sick with common illnesses, such as upper respiratory infections. This is the cat equivalent of the human cold. Cats that remain indoors most of the time are much less likely to become infected than outdoor cats.
Feline Distemper is most commonly found in kittens, but can also affect cats of any age. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting and lethargic behavior. If you suspect your cat may have this illness, contact your veterinarian immediately. Cats will become dehydrated very quickly with this condition.
All cats are at risk for Feline Diabetes, but the risks spike rapidly in overweight cats. If you see your cat eating, drinking and urinating excessively, it could be a sign that she’s diabetic.
Kidney Failure and Urinary Tract Infections are also common ailments that cats may experience. If your cat appears to be experiencing discomfort or has trouble using her litter box, it may indicate one of the ailments above.
Remember, the most important thing you can do for your cat to prevent diseases is make sure she’s taking regular trips to the veterinarian and keeping vaccinations up to date. It’s the best way to ensure you get the best out of your cat for the longest time possible.
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