As a pet health professional with years of hands-on experience, I’ve treated cats with various conditions. One thing I’ve learned is this: cats are experts at masking their discomfort. That’s why understanding the most common cat diseases is essential to keep your feline friend healthy and happy.
This comprehensive guide covers 17 of the most common cat diseases, each explained in detail, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, so you can take the best care of your cat.
1-Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)
Upper respiratory infections are a widespread and highly contagious condition in cats, especially in environments like shelters or multi-cat households. These infections can significantly affect a cat’s quality of life if not addressed promptly.
Upper respiratory infections in cats are most often caused by viruses, with feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV) being the primary offenders. These viruses are easily transmitted through direct contact, such as nose-to-nose greetings, or indirectly through contaminated food bowls, litter boxes, and human hands.
When a cat develops a URI, you might notice sneezing, nasal congestion, watery or gunky eyes, and general signs of malaise such as reduced appetite or fever. Some cats may also develop mouth ulcers or drool excessively, particularly in calicivirus infections.
Diagnosing a URI is usually based on clinical signs, but in chronic or severe cases, a veterinarian might collect swabs for PCR testing or cultures to identify the specific virus or bacteria involved.
Prevention is all about hygiene and vaccination. Ensuring your cat is up-to-date on core vaccines and avoiding overcrowded or stressful environments helps reduce risk. It’s also important to routinely clean their food dishes, bedding, and litter box.
Treatment focuses on supportive care, keeping your cat hydrated and nourished, using steam therapy for congestion, and administering antibiotics if there’s a secondary bacterial infection. In more severe cases, antivirals or hospitalization may be necessary.
2- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
FeLV is one of the leading infectious causes of death in cats, yet many pet owners aren’t fully aware of its impact. This retrovirus damages a cat’s immune defenses, increasing their risk of developing various infections and cancers.
This virus spreads through close contact, primarily via saliva, blood, and sometimes urine or feces. FeLV often spreads through everyday interactions like grooming one another, using the same food or water bowls, or through bite injuries. In some cases, kittens may acquire the virus from their mother either in the womb or while nursing.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can cause a variety of symptoms that often resemble those of other illnesses. Affected cats might seem unusually tired, experience weight loss, run persistent fevers, or deal with frequent infections such as stomatitis or respiratory problems. Common indicators also include pale gums due to anemia and enlarged lymph nodes.
To confirm infection, veterinarians perform blood tests such as the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and IFA (indirect immunofluorescent antibody test). These tests detect viral proteins or antibodies.
Prevention includes vaccination for at-risk cats and keeping indoor cats away from strays or FeLV-positive cats. Regular testing is also vital for multi-cat households.
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for FeLV. However, with proper management, such as good nutrition, regular vet checkups, and prompt treatment of secondary infections, many FeLV-positive cats can live quality lives for years.
3-Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Often compared to HIV in humans, FIV is a virus that compromises a cat’s immune system, making it harder for them to fight off everyday infections. It’s not a death sentence, but it does require diligent care and monitoring.
FIV is typically spread through bite wounds, which makes unneutered, outdoor male cats, who are more likely to fight, particularly vulnerable. Unlike FeLV, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) typically doesn’t spread through everyday contact such as grooming or sharing food and water dishes.
FIV-positive cats often appear healthy at first, but as the virus progresses, they can develop ongoing infections, dental problems, weight loss, a dull coat, and low energy levels. In advanced stages, some may also exhibit neurological issues
Diagnosis is made through blood tests that detect FIV antibodies. It’s crucial to interpret these results in context, especially in kittens who may carry maternal antibodies that result in false positives.
Prevention involves keeping cats indoors, neutering to reduce fighting, and testing new cats before introducing them to your household.
There’s no specific treatment for FIV, but supportive care, including a stress-free environment, proper diet, regular dental care, and prompt treatment of any illness, can help infected cats live long and fulfilling lives.
4- Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
Feline panleukopenia, commonly referred to as feline distemper, is a highly contagious virus that poses a serious threat to kittens. It targets fast-dividing cells, especially those in the bone marrow, intestinal lining, and unborn kittens.
The cause is the feline parvovirus, which is incredibly hardy in the environment and can survive for long periods on surfaces like bedding, litter boxes, and even human hands or clothing.
Early signs typically include abrupt vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, and watery or bloody diarrhea, often leading to intense dehydration. In kittens, the disease can progress so rapidly that death may occur before signs are recognized.
Veterinarians diagnose panleukopenia based on clinical signs and confirm with fecal ELISA tests or PCR testing to detect the virus.
Vaccination offers the most effective protection and is classified as a core vaccine recommended for every cat. Thorough sanitation and isolating infected animals are also key to controlling outbreaks.
There is no antiviral treatment for panleukopenia, so care is focused on aggressive supportive therapy, fluid replacement, antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, and nutritional support. A cat’s chances of recovery largely depend on how soon treatment is started and their general health condition.
5- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney disease is a prevalent illness in cats, particularly as they age. It gradually impairs kidney function, reducing their ability to filter waste from the bloodstream and causing toxin accumulation.
The exact cause is often unclear, but it can be triggered by aging, genetics, infections, toxins, or other underlying illnesses like high blood pressure or thyroid disorders.
Initial symptoms include excessive drinking and urination, weight loss, a dull coat, and reduced appetite. As the disease progresses, cats may vomit, develop ulcers in the mouth, and become lethargic or confused.
Diagnosis is made through bloodwork (to check for elevated creatinine and BUN levels) and urinalysis. An elevated SDMA level can be an early marker of kidney dysfunction.
There’s no cure for CKD, but proper management can greatly slow its progression. Special kidney diets, increased water intake, phosphate binders, and medications to manage symptoms are common treatments. Regular monitoring is crucial to adjust care as the disease evolves.
Prevention includes regular veterinary checkups, maintaining hydration, and addressing other diseases like dental issues or hypertension that can negatively impact kidney function.
6- Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes in cats is a serious condition where the body can’t properly regulate blood sugar levels, either due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production.
It occurs more frequently in overweight cats, particularly those in middle to older age. A high-carbohydrate diet and lack of exercise are significant risk factors. Some cats may also develop diabetes secondary to other conditions like pancreatitis.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst and urination, increased appetite, and weight loss despite eating well. As it progresses, cats may show lethargy, weakness, or even develop a condition called diabetic neuropathy, which affects the hind legs.
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and confirmed with blood glucose tests and urinalysis (to check for glucose and ketones in the urine).
Managing feline diabetes requires a committed routine. Most cats need daily insulin injections, dietary changes (such as a high-protein, low-carb diet), and regular blood glucose monitoring. Some cats can even achieve remission with early intervention and diet.
Preventing diabetes involves weight management, portion control, and encouraging daily play and activity.
7- Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a hormonal disorder common in senior cats, caused by an overactive thyroid gland producing excess thyroid hormone.
This condition is usually the result of benign thyroid tumors. The excess hormone accelerates metabolism, causing a range of symptoms.
Cats may eat ravenously yet lose weight. They may also become more vocal, hyperactive, have increased thirst and urination, or experience vomiting and diarrhea.
A straightforward blood test measuring thyroid hormone (T4) levels is typically sufficient for diagnosis.
Treatment options include daily medication (like methimazole), radioactive iodine therapy (which is curative), surgical removal of the affected gland, or prescription diets low in iodine.
Routine bloodwork in senior cats can help detect hyperthyroidism early and prevent complications like high blood pressure or heart disease.
8- Dental Disease
Dental issues, particularly periodontal disease, are very common in cats. By age 3, most cats already show some signs of dental issues.
It starts when plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth, leading to gum inflammation, infection, and tooth loss. Bacteria from the mouth can even affect internal organs like the heart and kidneys.
Signs include bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, and visible tartar buildup. In severe cases, bleeding gums and loose teeth may be observed.
Vets diagnose dental disease during an oral exam, often followed by dental X-rays under anesthesia.
Preventive care is the best strategy, including regular brushing, dental diets, treats, and annual cleanings under anesthesia. If dental disease is detected, professional cleaning and tooth extractions might be required.
9- Obesity
Obesity is a growing problem among house cats and can lead to many health complications, including diabetes, arthritis, and liver disease.
Causes include overfeeding, free-feeding, lack of exercise, and high-calorie diets. Indoor cats who don’t get enough playtime are particularly at risk.
You might notice your cat has a rounded body, difficulty grooming, or lethargy. Vets assess body condition score (BCS) to determine the degree of obesity.
Addressing obesity involves portion control, switching to lower-calorie diets, and encouraging daily play sessions with toys or interactive feeders.
Prevention is far easier than reversal, so start healthy habits early. A slim, active cat is a healthier cat.
10- Feline Asthma
Feline asthma is a long-term respiratory disorder that inflames and narrows the bronchial tubes in cats, making breathing challenging and potentially triggering severe, life-threatening episodes.
The exact cause isn’t always known, but it’s often linked to allergens like pollen, dust, mold, cigarette smoke, or even cat litter dust. Stress and obesity can also exacerbate the condition.
Symptoms vary from mild to severe and can include coughing (commonly mistaken for hairballs), wheezing, difficulty breathing, and open-mouth panting. During a severe attack, a cat may crouch low with its neck stretched out, struggling to breathe.
Diagnosis typically includes chest X-rays, blood work, and occasionally bronchoscopy or airway lavage to evaluate inflammation. It’s crucial to rule out other causes of respiratory distress, such as heart disease or lung infections.
While feline asthma has no cure, it can be successfully controlled. Treatment usually includes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and bronchodilators to open airways. These may be given orally, by injection, or via an inhaler with a special facemask.
Preventing asthma flare-ups means minimizing exposure to known triggers. Use low-dust, unscented litter, keep your home free of smoke and strong fragrances, and use HEPA air filters if possible.
11- Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
FIP is a serious and often fatal disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. While most cats carry the benign form of the virus without issue, a small percentage develop the dangerous mutated version that leads to FIP.
FIP tends to strike younger cats and those in multi-cat environments. It spreads through fecal-oral contact, especially in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
There are two forms of FIP: “wet” and “dry.” The wet form causes fluid buildup in the abdomen or chest, leading to bloating or difficulty breathing. The dry form involves granulomas (inflammatory masses) in organs like the kidneys, liver, or brain, resulting in symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, jaundice, or neurological signs.
Diagnosis is complex and involves a combination of clinical signs, bloodwork, imaging, and sometimes analysis of abdominal or chest fluid. No single test definitively confirms FIP, making it a challenging disease to diagnose.
For years, FIP was considered untreatable, but recent breakthroughs, especially antiviral drugs like GS-441524, have shown promising results. Though not yet universally available or approved everywhere, these treatments have saved thousands of cats.
Prevention includes keeping cats indoors, reducing stress, and maintaining cleanliness in multi-cat environments to limit coronavirus spread.
12- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
FLUTD is a term for a group of conditions affecting the bladder and urethra in cats. It’s one of the most common reasons cats are brought to the vet, especially males.
Potential causes include stress, dehydration, urinary crystals or stones, urinary tract infections, or unknown inflammation. In male cats, a blocked urethra is a medical emergency.
Symptoms include frequent attempts to urinate, straining, blood in the urine, urinating outside the litter box, and vocalizing in pain. Male cats who are unable to urinate should be seen by a vet immediately.
Diagnosis involves urinalysis, bloodwork, X-rays, or ultrasound to check for stones, and sometimes urine culture.
Treatment varies based on the cause. It may involve fluid therapy, urinary acidifiers, pain management, antibiotics if an infection is detected, or surgery to remove obstructions.. Prescription urinary diets often help prevent recurrence.
Stress management, increased water intake, and environmental enrichment are crucial in preventing future flare-ups. Consider using water fountains and multiple litter boxes in quiet areas.
13- Ear Mites (Otodectes cynotis)
Ear mites are microscopic parasites that infest the ear canal, frequently affecting kittens and outdoor cats. While not deadly, they cause significant irritation and spread easily.
These mites are usually transmitted through direct contact with another infected animal. They feed on earwax and debris, leading to severe itching and discomfort.
You’ll often see a cat shaking its head, scratching its ears, and possibly developing sores or hair loss around the ears. A dark, coffee-ground–colored discharge in the ear is a key indicator.
Diagnosis is simple; a veterinarian will inspect the ear discharge under a microscope to confirm the presence of mites.
Treatment involves ear cleaning and applying topical or systemic anti-parasitic medications, such as selamectin or ivermectin. Because mites spread quickly, all pets in the household may require treatment.
Keeping your cat indoors and checking ears regularly, especially after exposure to other animals, helps prevent infestations.
14-Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite “Toxoplasma gondii”. While healthy adult cats often show no symptoms, it can be dangerous for kittens, immunocompromised cats, and even pregnant women who come into contact with the parasite.
Cats contract it by ingesting infected prey or contaminated raw meat. Once infected, they may shed the parasite in their feces for a short time.
Most cats don’t show signs, but when they do, symptoms may include fever, lethargy, muscle weakness, respiratory issues, or eye inflammation. In severe cases, it may affect the nervous system.
Diagnosis includes blood tests for antibodies or PCR testing. Fecal exams are less reliable because cats shed the parasite only briefly.
Treatment includes antibiotics like clindamycin and supportive care. Most cats recover well with early treatment.
Preventing toxoplasmosis involves keeping cats indoors, avoiding raw meat diets, and cleaning litter boxes daily. Pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals should take extra care when handling litter.
15- Ringworm
Although its name suggests otherwise, ringworm is not caused by a worm but is a fungal infection that affects the skin, coat, and nails of cats and other animals.
This infection is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated items such as bedding and grooming equipment.
Infected cats may have circular patches of hair loss, scaly or crusty skin, and excessive grooming or scratching. Young kittens and immunocompromised cats are particularly at risk.
Diagnosis methods include using a Wood’s lamp (UV light), fungal culture, or PCR testing. Prompt identification and isolation of infected animals are crucial.
Treatment includes topical antifungal creams, medicated baths, and oral antifungals in severe cases. Environmental cleaning is crucial to prevent reinfection, this includes washing bedding and disinfecting surfaces regularly.
Preventive strategies include maintaining good hygiene, especially in shelters or multi-pet homes, and minimizing contact with unknown animals.
16- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most prevalent heart disease in cats. It causes thickening of the heart’s left ventricle, which impairs the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.
The exact cause is often genetic, especially in breeds like Maine Coons and Ragdolls, but it can also occur in domestic shorthairs.
Symptoms can be subtle or sudden and may include lethargy, rapid breathing, open-mouth breathing, collapse, or sudden death. Some cats show no signs until they develop congestive heart failure or blood clots.
Diagnosis involves a cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram), chest X-rays, and blood pressure measurements. Blood tests for heart biomarkers like NT-proBNP may also assist in screening.
Treatment aims to control symptoms and slow the disease’s progression. Medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or ACE inhibitors are commonly prescribed. Anticoagulants like clopidogrel may be given if there’s a risk of blood clots.
Routine vet checkups, especially in at-risk breeds, can help detect heart disease early.
17- Tapeworms
Tapeworms are frequent intestinal parasites in cats, typically contracted by swallowing fleas or infected rodents.
These flat, segmented worms attach to the intestines and can grow several inches long. Segments resembling rice grains may be visible around your cat’s anus or in their feces.
Most cats don’t show severe symptoms, but heavy infestations can cause weight loss, vomiting, or irritation around the rear.
Diagnosis is usually based on seeing the segments or through fecal tests. Flea infestations often coincide with tapeworm presence.
Treatment involves deworming medications such as praziquantel, either orally or via injection.
Preventing tapeworms means using regular flea control, keeping your cat indoors, and discouraging hunting behavior.
Final Thoughts
Understanding common cat diseases is the first step in ensuring your furry companion lives a long, healthy life. As a pet professional, I encourage all cat owners to keep up with routine veterinary care, watch for subtle changes in behavior, and invest in preventive measures like vaccinations, nutrition, and parasite control.
By staying informed and proactive, you’re not just managing disease, you’re strengthening the bond between you and your cat, one healthy purr at a time.
If you found this article helpful, share it with fellow cat lovers and bookmark it for future reference. Your cat’s health is worth it!
How to Tell if a Cat Is Unwell?
Cats are famously good at hiding illness, it’s an instinct they’ve inherited from their wild ancestors. As a result, subtle changes in behavior or routine might be your first clue that something’s not right. Look for signs like reduced appetite, lethargy, sudden weight loss, hiding more than usual, poor grooming, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in litter box habits. A cat that’s normally vocal becoming quiet, or vice versa, can also be a red flag. Even small shifts like not greeting you at the door or sleeping in unusual places can signal illness. As a vet, I always tell pet parents to trust their gut. If your cat “just doesn’t seem like themselves,” it’s worth scheduling a vet checkup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Can Help a Sick Cat?
Helping a sick cat begins with early recognition and prompt veterinary care. Once diagnosed, follow your vet’s recommendations closely, whether it’s medication, dietary changes, or rest. Create a calm and stress-free environment, sick cats need peace and warmth. Offer fresh water and highly palatable food, especially if your cat has a reduced appetite. In some cases, warming food slightly or offering wet food can entice eating. Keep their litter box clean, monitor their habits, and never force medication without proper technique or guidance. Most importantly, never self-diagnose or treat without consulting a veterinarian. Home remedies may seem tempting, but can sometimes do more harm than good.
What Disease Kills the Most Cats?
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is one of the deadliest cat diseases, especially in young or immunocompromised cats. It results from a mutation of the feline coronavirus and often progresses rapidly. Until recently, it was considered untreatable and almost always fatal. However, new antiviral treatments like GS-441524 have shown remarkable success in saving cats diagnosed with FIP. Other significant killers include chronic kidney disease, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and certain cancers. Regular vet checkups, vaccinations, early detection, and preventive care can dramatically reduce the risk of these life-threatening diseases.
When to Worry About a Cat?
You should be concerned anytime your cat displays sudden changes in behavior, appetite, or physical condition. If your cat refuses food or water for more than 24 hours, is vomiting repeatedly, has bloody diarrhea, labored breathing, persistent coughing, or can’t urinate, those are all urgent signs requiring immediate veterinary attention. Likewise, if your normally social cat becomes reclusive or unusually aggressive, don’t ignore it. Cats often suffer in silence, so even a “small” symptom can point to a serious underlying issue. If you are paranoid, call your vet.
How to Tell if a Cat Has a Fever?
A fever in cats is defined as a body temperature above 102.5°F (39.2°C). You might notice your cat is warm to the touch, especially the ears, paws, or belly. Other signs include lethargy, decreased appetite, shivering, rapid breathing, and a general lack of interest in their surroundings. Some cats with fever will seek warm spots or avoid being touched. The only accurate way to confirm a fever is by taking your cat’s temperature using a rectal thermometer or, preferably, having your vet do it safely. If you suspect a fever, don’t wait; bring your cat in for an evaluation, as fevers can be a sign of infection, inflammation, or more serious systemic illness.
Can I Give Paracetamol to My Cat?
Absolutely not! Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen or Tylenol) is highly toxic to cats; even a small dose can be deadly. Cats lack the liver enzymes needed to safely break down paracetamol, which leads to rapid and severe liver damage and destruction of red blood cells. If your cat ingests paracetamol, it’s a medical emergency; take them to a vet immediately. Never give your cat any human medication unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian. Always ask first, what helps us might harm them.