{"id":23850,"date":"2011-03-18T01:55:02","date_gmt":"2011-03-18T05:55:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/23850\/top-10-cat-health-questions\/"},"modified":"2011-03-18T01:55:02","modified_gmt":"2011-03-18T05:55:02","slug":"top-10-cat-health-questions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/23850\/top-10-cat-health-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Cat Health Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"

Posted By:
AfSD\u2122(ADVOCATE FOR SAVING DOGS\u2122)<\/a><\/p>\n

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Top 10 Cat Health Questions<\/h4>\n

\t\tposted by Samantha, selected from Animal Planet<\/a> Mar 15, 2011

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\n
<\/a><\/b><\/div>\n
By Colleen Cancio, Animal Planet<\/b><\/div>\n

<\/b><\/div>\n
Cats are magnificent creatures. With grace<\/a>,
\n refinement and a permanent look of haughty disdain on their faces,
\ntheir charms are impossible to resist. On the other hand, cats are also
\n quite mysterious, which is why taking care of them isn\u2019t always easy.<\/b><\/div>\n
What constitutes \u201cnormal\u201d behavior for a cat? How do you know when to
\n take your cat to the veterinarian? How do cats cope with stress in
\ntheir environment, and what are some of the symptoms of serious illness<\/a>
\n in a cat? Check out our list of the top 10 cat health questions to
\nlearn about the domestic cat\u2019s most common quirks and health concerns.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>10. Is it normal for cats to mark their territory?<\/b><\/div>\n
Cats are some of the most territorial creatures on the planet. Every
\n time your cat rubs his cheeks against you, he\u2019s marking you with his
\nscent. It\u2019s his way of saying \u201cback off \u2014 this one\u2019s taken.\u201d<\/b><\/div>\n
When it comes to territory marking in house cats, the biggest problem
\n for owners is urine spraying, that unfortunate tomcat tendency to pee
\n on drapes, furniture and other household items. Spraying is different
\nfrom the elimination of urine for physiological reasons. When cats
\nspray, it\u2019s meant to be a \u201ckeep out\u201d sign for other animals.<\/b><\/div>\n
Spraying is common among felines that live in multi-cat households or
\n those that are experiencing stress. If your cat is spraying,
\nthoroughly clean the marked <\/p>\n

area<\/a>
\n with products designed to neutralize odor. You should also do your
\nbest to create and maintain a stress-free environment for your feline
\nfriend.<\/b><\/div>\n

<\/b>No. 1 Cleaning Tip <\/b>
\nWhen cleaning cat spray with household products, avoid using those that
\n are ammonia-based. Ammonia smells like urine and may cause the cat to
\nspray more in order to cover it up.<\/div>\n
<\/b>9. What are the recommended shots for cats?<\/b><\/div>\n
Vaccines are very important for domestic cats, both indoor and
\noutdoor. But it may not always be clear which vaccines to give your
\nbewhiskered buddy. According to the Cornell University College of
\nVeterinary Medicine, the types of shots your cat needs depend on
\nseveral factors, including whether he goes outside and his age and
\noverall health.<\/b><\/div>\n
As a general rule, all cats should be vaccinated for feline
\ndistemper, feline herpes virus and rabies. Outdoor cats require vaccines
\n for additional diseases, such as feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia<\/a>
\n virus, the number one viral killer of cats. Each of these may be given
\n on a particular schedule, depending on the age of your pet. When
\nplanning for your veterinary visit, be prepared to discuss your cat\u2019s
\nenvironment, lifestyle and medical history, as these will factor into
\nthe decisions about vaccination.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Vaccination Malaise<\/b>
\nReceiving vaccinations may cause your cat to retreat to a favorite
\nhiding spot for a day or two. This is normal. However, if he does not
\nreturn to his normal behavior within 48 hours, talk to your veterinarian
\n about the problem.<\/div>\n

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\n
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<\/b>8. What if your cat has a runny nose?<\/b><\/div>\n
Cats are prone to runny noses for a variety of reasons, including
\nallergies, nasal mites, infections and the common cold, all of which
\nare treatable conditions. For each of these, there would be discharge
\ncoming from both of your cat\u2019s nostrils.<\/b><\/div>\n
If your cat has discharge coming from only one nostril, there may be
\n something in the nasal passage that\u2019s irritating the lining and causing
\n fluid to run out. For example, grass, dust or pollen may become stuck
\nin your cat\u2019s nose. If this is the cause, most often it will work
\nitself out.<\/b><\/div>\n
According to Washington State University\u2019s College of Veterinary
\nMedicine, discharge from one nostril in cats may also indicate a nasal
\ntumor, especially if it is accompanied by blood. If you notice these
\nsymptoms, you should see your veterinarian as soon as possible.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Spilled Milk<\/b>
\nA cleft palate in kittens that are still nursing can result in milk
\nrunning through the nose. This condition is often treatable, especially
\n in cases of small clefts.<\/div>\n
<\/b>7. What causes hair loss in cats?<\/b><\/div>\n
Seasoned cat owners know that a certain amount of hair loss in cats
\nis normal, and they have a house full of hair-covered furniture to
\nprove it. However, excessive or patchy hair loss in cats is not normal,
\n especially when accompanied by inflamed skin.<\/b><\/div>\n
Hair loss in cats is often caused by excessive scratching due to flea infestation<\/a>,
\n allergies or other skin irritants. Hyperthyroidism is another cause of
\n hair loss in cats, especially older cats. Once these underlying
\nconditions are treated, the hair loss should stop.<\/b><\/div>\n
In some cases, hair loss in cats coincides with a change in the
\nanimal\u2019s environment. Excessive grooming caused by stress can also cause
\n hair to fall out. No matter what the cause, if the problem persists,
\ntalk to your veterinarian about the problem.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Valuable Vibrissae<\/b>
\nLike fur, a cat\u2019s whiskers periodically fall out and grow back. But you
\n should never cut them. Whiskers serve several important functions for
\ncats, including helping them to navigate through their environment.<\/div>\n

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\n
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<\/b>6. What if your cat vomits a lot?<\/b><\/div>\n
Seeing your cat vomit can be upsetting. But try not to worry \u2014
\nvomiting is quite common and usually inconsequential in our feline
\nfriends. These naturally inquisitive creatures often consume some
\npretty unsavory \u201csnacks,\u201d and vomiting is nature\u2019s way of getting rid
\nof the offending morsels. Vomiting may also be caused by hairballs,
\nwhich are normal byproducts of grooming.<\/b><\/div>\n
More serious causes of vomiting include viral infections, intestinal
\n obstructions, kidney disease, diseases of the digestive system and
\nvarious types of cancer. In most cases, vomiting that lasts less than a
\n few days doesn\u2019t need to be treated, though you may want to withhold
\nfood for 24 hours. If your cat is vomiting for more than 48 hours, or if
\n the vomit contains blood, contact your veterinarian as soon as
\npossible.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Help for Hairballs<\/b>
\nTo keep hair balls under control, try brushing your cat on a regular basis. It\u2019ll keep the hairballs<\/a> in check and <\/p>\n

foster bonding between you and your feline friend.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/b>5. Why would a cat refuse to eat and drink?<\/b><\/div>\n
Having a pet that refuses food and water can be pretty alarming, and
\n rightfully so, considering that not many creatures last long without
\nthese basic staples. But keep in mind that cats are extremely finicky
\ncreatures. Changing their food or feeding routines can cause them to
\nrefuse food and water for a short time. Cats may also go on brief
\nhunger strikes in response to environmental stressors, such as the
\npresence of guests in your home. If this is the case, don\u2019t worry. Your
\n furry friend will be grazing again in no time.<\/b><\/div>\n
However, there are also many illnesses that can cause an animal to
\nrefuse food and water, including dental infections and intestinal
\ndisease. If your cat goes more than 48 hours without eating or drinking,
\n contact your veterinarian immediately.<\/b><\/div>\n

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\n
<\/a><\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>4. What can cause weight loss in a cat?<\/b><\/div>\n
There is no shortage of portly pets in the world these days, mainly due to the abundance of owners who overfeed<\/a>
\n and under-exercise their four-legged friends. These animals could use a
\n good weight loss program. However, weight loss in an animal that is
\nnot on a diet is generally a cause for concern.<\/b><\/div>\n
Some of the most common causes of weight loss in cats are intestinal
\n parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms or tapeworms. Fortunately,
\nthese are relatively easy to treat \u2014 one or two doses of medication
\nwill usually do the trick.<\/b><\/div>\n
More serious potential causes of weight loss in cats include cancer,
\n hyperthyroidism, kidney disease and dental infections. No matter what
\nthe cause, any unexplained weight loss in your cat should be brought to
\n the attention of your veterinarian as soon as possible.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Litter Box Basics <\/b>
\nIntestinal parasites are very common in cats, with infection rates as
\nhigh as 45 percent, according to the Cornell University College of
\nVeterinary Medicine. The best way to avoid recurring infections is to
\nscoop feces from cat litter boxes daily and regularly clean them with a
\n bleach solution.<\/div>\n
<\/b>3. Should you be worried if your cat has diarrhea?<\/b><\/div>\n
Despite its inherent unpleasantness, diarrhea serves a critical
\nfunction in all animals, including cats. It is nature\u2019s way of quickly
\ngetting rid of anything in the digestive tract that has the potential
\nto do harm. It\u2019s normal for cats to have occasional diarrhea, and it\u2019s
\nusually a short-lived problem.<\/b><\/div>\n
Sometimes, however, diarrhea indicates a more serious condition in
\ncats, such as intestinal infections or tumors. If your cat\u2019s diarrhea
\npersists for more than 48 hours, contains blood or is accompanied by
\nvomiting or fever, make an appointment to see your veterinarian
\nimmediately. You should also see your veterinarian if your cat shows
\nsigns of dehydration, which include sunken eyes, lethargy, and a dry
\nmouth and nose.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Hydration Helps<\/b>
\nA cat that has diarrhea may also refuse to eat or drink during the
\nepisode. However, dehydration is a serious concern for cats. If your pet
\n is experiencing diarrhea, encourage him to drink at least small
\namounts of water.<\/div>\n

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\n
<\/a><\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>2. How do you know if your cat is too fat?<\/b><\/div>\n
To find out if your feline is fit or fat, ask yourself the following questions:<\/b><\/div>\n
Is there just a thin layer of fat over the bones of his rib cage and tail?<\/b><\/div>\n
Looking from above, <\/p>\n

does your cat\u2019s waistline narrow behind the ribs?<\/b><\/div>\n

Looking at your cat from the side, does his abdomen <\/p>\n

tuck upward just behind the ribs?<\/b><\/div>\n

If you answered \u201cno\u201d to one or more of these, there\u2019s a good chance
\nyour cat is fat. To maintain a healthy weight in your pet, offer him a
\nfood that is appropriate for his stage of life and for his particular
\nhealth concerns. You should also be sure to feed him according to your
\nvet\u2019s instructions. Overfeeding is the main cause of feline obesity,
\nwhich can shorten your cat\u2019s lifespan.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Indoor Exercise<\/b>
\nA great way to help your cat shed unwanted pounds is to play with him in the house. But don\u2019t worry about buying <\/p>\n

fancy cat toys<\/a> \u2014 a crumpled up piece of paper tossed playfully across the room is all your pudgy pet needs to get <\/p>\n

moving.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/b>1. What if your cat has seizures?<\/b><\/div>\n
The word seizure refers to a sudden uncontrollable firing of nerves
\nin the brain. In mild cases, a seizure may cause your cat to simply
\npause for a moment with a far-away look in his eyes. In more severe
\ncases, a seizure can cause a cat to fall to the ground, twitching,
\nconvulsing, and urinating or defecating uncontrollably. These episodes
\nmay last a minute or more, and are usually followed by a period of
\ndisorientation. They are among the most difficult health issues a cat
\nowner can face.<\/b><\/div>\n
Seizures can be caused by many factors, including infections,
\nhypoglycemia, kidney disease, tumors, exposure to toxins and epilepsy.
\nIf your cat is experiencing seizures, it is important to see your
\nveterinarian as soon as possible. Once the vet determines the underlying
\n cause of the seizures, they can often treat them successfully.<\/b><\/div>\n
<\/b>Holding cats during seizures<\/b>
\nThere is no need to pick up your cat or move him during a seizure unless
\n he is in danger of hitting a wall or other hard object. Just stay with
\n him and speak to him in a reassuring voice. He\u2019ll need you to comfort
\n him when it\u2019s over.<\/div>\n
<\/b>Related:<\/b>
\n10 Fantastic Cat Facts<\/a>
\n5 Pet Health Myths<\/a>
\nTop 10 Common Pet <\/p>\n

Toxins<\/a><\/div>\n

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\n
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Source:<\/b><\/div>\n
http:\/\/www.care2.com\/greenliving\/top-10-cat-health-questions.html?page=5<\/a><\/b><\/div>\n

<\/b><\/div>\n

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Posted By:AfSD\u2122(ADVOCATE FOR SAVING DOGS\u2122) Top 10 Cat Health Questions posted by Samantha, selected from Animal Planet Mar 15, 2011 By Colleen Cancio, Animal Planet Cats are magnificent creatures. With grace, refinement and a permanent look of haughty disdain on their faces, their charms are impossible to resist. On the other hand, cats are also […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-23850","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-other"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23850","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23850"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23850\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23850"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23850"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/friendburst.com\/blog-new\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23850"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}