3. Changes in Appetite or Thirst
Another way to gauge the health and well-being of your cat is by observing their eating habits. A decreased appetite can be a sign of a serious health issue, for example. That said, cats can be finicky at times, so this could just be a sign that a change in food is in order. You should know what is normal for your pet. But if their appetite changes drastically and if they show less interest in their food than usual, they may have an undiagnosed medical condition. Any significant change in weight may also indicate an underlying health issue.
Furthermore, increased thirst can indicate a disease like diabetes, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism. Conditions like these are often accompanied by other signs, such as weight loss or lethargy. But these signs can also be linked to many other health issues, so don’t wait to schedule a consultation with your veterinarian.
4. Repeated Vomiting and Diarrhea
It’s normal for cats to vomit a hairball every once in a while, but if it happens frequently, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. This is especially concerning if your cat’s eating, drinking, and litter box habits have changed. If vomiting is paired with diarrhea, it could be an indication of a serious issue.
There are various potential causes of vomiting and diarrhea in cats, including gastrointestinal issues (like intestinal blockage, parasites, food sensitivity or allergy, or inflammatory bowel disease) and non-gastrointestinal causes (like pancreatitis, kidney disease, or even cancer).
A few of these conditions are considered medical emergencies, so contact your veterinarian, especially if your cat has vomited several times in a row and hasn’t eaten or drunk in 12 hours.
