5. Litter Box Issue
Cats are clean creatures, so any change in their litter box habits can be a telltale sign that something is wrong. However, this may not always be a cause for veterinary care. Maybe you haven’t had the chance to clean the litter box for a few days, and your cat is showing their displeasure by defecating outside the box. But if their litter box is immaculate and they continue to do their business outside of it, this could be a sign of urinary tract obstruction (also called urethral obstruction), which is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.
So, if your cat is displaying signs of discomfort like straining and crying while producing only small amounts of urine or excessively grooming their genital area, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately.
6. Overgrooming
Most cats like to keep their fur smooth and clean. But excessive grooming can indicate an underlying problem, such as hidden wounds, pain, skin allergies, parasites, or anxiety and stress. Bald spots can also appear where your cat licks excessively.
The best way to help your cat with their excessive grooming is to identify and address the root cause. You’ll need to consult with your veterinarian, so they can diagnose the underlying issues and recommend appropriate medical or behavioral treatments.