Quick answer: Common cat health problems include dental disease, urinary tract problems, vomiting and hairballs, obesity, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes and arthritis. Because cats hide illness, small changes in appetite, litter box habits, grooming, weight or hiding are often the first clues.
Cats are masters at hiding pain and illness, a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. By the time a cat looks obviously sick, a problem may have been building for a while.
Knowing the common problems and their early signs helps you catch them sooner, when they’re easier to treat.
Common Cat Health Problems
| Problem | Signs to watch for |
|---|---|
| Dental disease | Bad breath, drooling, dropping food, chewing on one side |
| Urinary problems (FLUTD) | Straining, frequent trips, peeing outside the box, blood in urine |
| Urethral blockage (mostly males) | Straining with little or no urine, crying in the box: EMERGENCY |
| Vomiting and hairballs | Frequent vomiting, retching, weight loss |
| Obesity | No visible waist, can’t feel ribs, trouble grooming |
| Chronic kidney disease | Drinking and peeing more, weight loss, poor appetite |
| Hyperthyroidism | Weight loss with a big appetite, restlessness, vomiting |
| Diabetes | Drinking and peeing more, weight loss, weakness in back legs |
| Arthritis | Jumping less, stiffness, missing the litter box, grooming less |
| Upper respiratory infections | Sneezing, runny eyes and nose, poor appetite |
| Fleas and parasites | Scratching, overgrooming, flea dirt, worms |
Subtle Signs Cats Are Unwell
- Hiding more than usual
- Changes in appetite or water intake
- Peeing or pooping outside the litter box
- Grooming less (greasy or matted coat) or overgrooming bald patches
- Weight loss or gain
- Sleeping in unusual places, or more than usual
- Being less tolerant of handling
- Changes in voice, like more yowling at night
Emergencies: Go to a Vet Right Away
- A male cat straining in the litter box with little or no urine
- Open-mouth breathing or trouble breathing
- Not eating for 24 hours or more
- Repeated vomiting, or vomiting with lethargy
- Sudden weakness or paralysis in the back legs
- Suspected poisoning, including any part of a lily (extremely toxic to cats)
- Collapse, seizures or major injury
Prevention Tips
- Schedule yearly checkups, or every six months for seniors, often with bloodwork after middle age.
- Keep your cat at a healthy weight with measured meals and daily play.
- Encourage drinking with fountains, extra bowls and wet food.
- Brush teeth or ask your vet about dental care options.
- Keep litter boxes clean so you notice changes in urine and stool.
- Keep cats indoors or supervised outside to reduce injuries and infections.
- Use year-round parasite prevention recommended by your vet.
Senior Cats
Many vets consider cats seniors somewhere after age 10. Kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, arthritis and dental disease all become more common. Our 12-year-old tabbies are a good example of how differently cats age: Max still races around, while Molly has slowed down with stiff hips. Regular senior checkups help catch problems early.
Helpful Products
- Cat water fountains: Encourages drinking, which supports urinary and kidney health.
- Low-entry litter boxes: Easier for stiff or senior cats.
- Pet scales: Tracking weight helps catch problems early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my cat is sick?
Look for changes in appetite, litter box habits, grooming, hiding or weight. Cats often show only subtle signs.
Why is my cat peeing outside the litter box?
It can be a medical problem like a urinary infection, kidney disease or arthritis, or a litter box issue. See your vet first.
How often should my cat see the vet?
At least once a year for adults, and every six months for seniors is often recommended.
Is a male cat straining to pee an emergency?
Yes. It can be a urinary blockage, which can be life-threatening within hours.
The Bottom Line
Cats hide illness, so the best thing you can do is know your cat’s normal and notice changes. Keep up with checkups, encourage drinking, keep your cat at a healthy weight, and never wait on emergency signs like straining to pee.
Keep reading:
- Caring for Senior Cats: Life With Our 12-Year-Old Brother-and-Sister Tabbies
- Why Do Cats Vomit? Common Causes and When to Call the Vet
- Respiratory Problems in Cats: Sneezing, Coughing and When to Worry
- Dental Problems in Cats: Prevention, Signs and Treatment
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