Cats bring joy and companionship into countless homes, but they can also face a variety of health risks that every pet owner should be aware of. One of the first steps in learning how to take care of a cat is learning about the most common cat diseases and symptoms.
Understanding the most common diseases, how they spread, and the measures you can take to protect your cat not only keeps your pet safe but also safeguards other animals and people in your household.
Cats are definitely independent, tough pets, but they’re susceptible to a variety of different diseases and conditions. Below is an overview of the most common cat diseases, why they happen, how to spot them, and when to act.
Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) in cats are contagious viral or bacterial conditions that affect the nose, throat, and eyes. They are especially common in multi-cat households, shelters, or environments that put them under stress, which weakens their immune system.
Most URIs are caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV), though secondary bacterial infections can complicate the illness. Transmission occurs through direct cat-to-cat contact, airborne droplets from sneezing, or contaminated food bowls, bedding, and human hands.
Typical signs of URIs include sneezing, nasal and ocular discharge, conjunctivitis, fever, reduced appetite, and lethargy. Vaccination (FVRCP) reduces severity, although it doesn’t guarantee complete immunity.
FLUTD refers to several disorders affecting the bladder and urethra. It’s basically an infection of some capacity that has infiltrated the urinary system of your furry friend.
|
Condition |
Description |
Notes |
|
Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) |
A painful inflammation of the bladder that often causes straining, frequent trips to the litter box, and blood in the urine, but without an identifiable infection or stone. |
Stress, diet, and low water intake are major triggers. FIC tends to recur, so long-term management focuses on stress reduction, increasing hydration, and urinary health diets. |
|
Bladder Stones |
Forms when microscopic crystals in the urine join together. The resulting bladder stones can lead to FLUTD from inflammation, pain, irritation, and bladder obstruction. |
More common in male cats. Can completely block urine flow, which is a life-threatening emergency. Management often requires special diets, and in severe cases, surgical removal. |
|
Urethral Plugs |
Debris in urine obstructs the urethra. Severe urethral muscle spasms from inflammation can cause a similar blockage. |
Most often seen in young to middle-aged male cats. Plugs are a common cause of urinary obstruction. Emergency care is required to relieve the blockage and prevent kidney damage. |
|
Urethral Stricture |
Narrowing of the urethra caused by scar tissue after trauma. |
Makes urination difficult and may cause recurrent blockages. More challenging to manage; treatment may involve surgery to widen the urethra. |
|
Tumour |
Rare, but tumours (which are often non-cancerous masses like polyps or granulomas in the bladder or urethra) can lead to FLUTD due to inflammation caused by the tumour(s), |
Uncommon overall, but more likely in older cats. Diagnosis typically requires imaging or biopsy. Prognosis varies depending on type and location of tumour. |
|
Bacterial Infection |
Introduces bacteria into the lower urinary tract, resulting in inflammation and irritation, which can lead to FLUTD. |
More common in older cats, often linked to other urinary problems (like CKD or diabetes). Requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent complications such as kidney infection. |
There are a handful of pesky causes or risks that can lead to your cat developing FLUTD, such as:
The symptoms of FLUTD are fairly recognizable and shouldn’t take long for you to notice. Your cat’s discomfort will likely become apparent quickly.
Symptoms to keep your eyes peeled for include:
Dental disease in cats encompasses a range of conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and oral cavity, including periodontal disease, gingivitis, tooth resorption, and oral infections. It’s a very common health problem in cats.
Dental disease develops primarily due to plaque accumulation on your cat’s pearly whites, which can mineralize into tartar. This bacterial buildup triggers inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and can progress to periodontitis, damaging the supporting structures of the teeth. Contributing factors include age, breed predisposition, and diet.
Signs of dental disease can be subtle, which is why routine checks and being knowledgeable about what to look out for are crucial.
Common indicators include:
Obesity in cats is defined as an excess accumulation of body fat that can negatively impact overall health and increase the risk of chronic conditions. Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine disorders in cats and is often closely linked to obesity.
The primary causes of obesity include overfeeding, feeding high-calorie diets, lack of exercise, and neutering, which can reduce metabolism and energy expenditure. Genetics also plays a role, with some breeds more predisposed to weight gain.
Obesity is a significant risk factor for diabetes because excess fat interferes with insulin function. Other contributing factors include endocrine disorders such as acromegaly (excess growth hormone) and pancreatitis, which can damage insulin-producing cells.
Worms and Parasites
Cats can be affected by a variety of internal and external parasites, which can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Internal parasites include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, Giardia, and gastric worms such as Ollulanus tricuspis. External parasites include fleas, mites, and ticks, which feed on the cat’s blood, irritate the skin, and can transmit other diseases or secondary infections.
Parasite infections occur through several common routes:
Clinical signs of parasitic infections vary depending on the type of parasite, but can include:
Recognizing the early symptoms of common cat diseases can save your kitty’s life.. Cats often hide their discomfort, so even small changes, such as subtle shifts in behaviour or appetite, can potentially indicate serious health concerns.
Frequent sneezing, coughing, nasal or eye discharge, and red, watery eyes are classic signs of upper respiratory infections in cats, which we described earlier in this article. While symptoms may look like a simple “kitty cold,” they can escalate quickly—especially in kittens, seniors, or cats with weakened immune systems. Because these viruses remain in the body, flare-ups often occur during times of stress. Vaccination can help reduce severity, but ongoing management may be needed throughout a cat’s life.
Persistent changes in appetite and weight are major warning signs in cats. A sustained loss of appetite can signal serious conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, hepatic lipidosis, hyperthyroidism, or pancreatitis. On the other hand, unexplained weight loss—even when appetite seems normal—may point to chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperthyroidism, or gastrointestinal lymphoma, and should always prompt timely veterinary evaluation.
Repeated vomiting or ongoing diarrhea is a red flag for potential cat diseases. These signs may point to underlying problems such as intestinal parasites, food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, or even systemic conditions like hyperthyroidism or kidney disease. Left unchecked, chronic diarrhea can rapidly cause dehydration—especially in kittens and senior cats—making prompt veterinary attention essential.
Noticeable drop in activity, hiding, reduced grooming, or changes in social behaviour often signal illness. Cats with medical problems frequently sleep more and look unkempt. If lethargy is accompanied by other signs, such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or changes in breathing, contact your veterinarian.
Subtle mobility changes often reflect your cat being in pain, most commonly from osteoarthritis in adult and senior cats. Tell-tale signs include reluctance or refusal to jump, jumping less often, stiffness after rest, difficulty with stairs or the litter box, and even shifts in temperament—core indicators that your four-legged companion may be uncomfortable. Joint support supplements such as TRI-ACTA and TRI-ACTA H.A. (includes hyaluronic acid for additional joint lubrication) can play an important role in managing pain and protecting joint health by reducing inflammation, improving mobility, and supporting cartilage repair, helping cats stay active and comfortable as they age.
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Cats often mask signs of illness until they become severe, making early detection and prevention critical. Some feline diseases are fatal if left untreated, which is very scary, but many can be prevented with vaccinations, regular veterinary check-ups, and lifestyle management.
FeLV is a retrovirus that suppresses the immune system, leaving cats susceptible to infections, anemia, and certain types of cancer. It is the second leading cause of death in cats worldwide.
FeLV spreads through saliva, nasal secretions, and close contact. The best prevention is vaccination combined with keeping cats indoors and away from infected animals. Due to their higher risk of developing infections, the FeLV vaccine is now widely recognized as a core vaccine for kittens.
A mutation of the feline coronavirus causes FIP. While many cats carry the benign form of the virus without issue, in rare cases, it mutates into FIP, which is often fatal.
There is currently no guaranteed way to prevent FIP, but the risk can be reduced by minimizing exposure to feline coronavirus and vaccinating your cat against it. Keeping cats indoors, maintaining good litter box hygiene (scooping frequently and providing one box per cat), and reducing stress in multi-cat households all help lower transmission. Since young cats and those in crowded environments (such as shelters or catteries) are at higher risk, limiting overcrowding and practicing careful introductions are also important. Routine veterinary checkups and strong immune support through proper nutrition and care give cats the best chance of staying healthy.
CKD is a progressive condition where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste from the blood. It is one of the most common illnesses in older cats.
Chart: Stages of CKD in Cats:
|
Stage |
Creatinine Levels (mg/dL*) |
Common Signs |
Prognosis & Management |
|
Stage 1 |
<1.6 |
Usually no visible symptoms; may show subtle changes like mild thirst or slight weight loss. |
Good with regular monitoring. Early intervention (diet changes, supplements, hydration support) can slow progression. |
|
Stage 2 |
1.6–2.8 |
Noticeable increase in thirst and urination, mild weight loss, occasional lethargy. |
Manageable with prescription renal diet, increased hydration, and routine vet checkups. Cats often live several years with proper care. |
|
Stage 3 |
2.9–5.0 |
More obvious signs: vomiting, poor appetite, weight loss, dehydration, lethargy. |
Requires medical management (fluids, anti-nausea meds, appetite stimulants). Quality of life can often be maintained with intensive care. |
|
Stage 4 |
>5.0 |
Severe symptoms: persistent vomiting, anorexia, profound weight loss, weakness, poor quality of life. |
Guarded to poor prognosis. Palliative care or hospice may be considered, though some cats may still benefit from aggressive treatment short-term. |
Early detection and proactive care of kidney issues in cats can make a big difference. Regular veterinary checkups with bloodwork and urinalysis in middle-aged and senior cats allow vets to catch kidney changes before symptoms appear. At-home strategies—such as encouraging hydration with water fountains or wet food—support kidney function. If early CKD is detected, transitioning to a veterinary-prescribed renal diet is one of the most effective ways to slow disease progression and preserve quality of life.
Cats can develop various cancers, with some forms being more common than others. Cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, forming tumors or spreading throughout the body.
Regular veterinary exams, including routine bloodwork and physical checks, help identify concerns before they progress. Keeping your cat indoors or supervised outdoors lowers exposure to toxins, viruses, and secondhand smoke, which can increase cancer risk. Spaying or neutering also reduces the likelihood of reproductive cancers. Supporting overall wellness through a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, vaccination against viruses like FeLV, and keeping your cat active all contribute to stronger immune defenses and a lower risk of disease.
Genetics plays a major role in feline health. Certain breeds, while beautiful and beloved, are sadly predisposed to inherited conditions that can impact their quality of life. Recognizing common genetic cat diseases helps cat owners take proactive steps in prevention, monitoring, and treatment.
PKD is one of the most well-documented hereditary diseases in Persian cats. It causes fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys, which can grow over time and lead to kidney failure. Signs often appear around middle age, accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and lethargy.
Genetic testing is widely available and is the most reliable method for detecting carriers of PKD. Responsible breeders now routinely screen for the gene mutation to prevent passing it on.
Due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) skull shape, Persians are prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This can cause noisy breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, and, in severe cases, respiratory distress. Key management strategies include keeping these cats at a healthy weight, reducing stress, and avoiding hot environments.
Siamese cats are disproportionately diagnosed with feline asthma, a chronic condition where the airways become inflamed and constricted. Triggers can include allergens like dust, smoke, or pollen. Signs range from mild coughing to wheezing and labored breathing. Treatment often involves using corticosteroids and bronchodilators to manage inflammation and improve airflow.
This rare but serious condition occurs when abnormal protein deposits (amyloid) build up in organs, particularly the liver. Over time, this can lead to organ failure. Symptoms include loss of appetite, jaundice, vomiting, and weight loss. While there is no cure, supportive care and early detection through blood tests and imaging can help extend a cat’s lifespan.
HCM is the most common genetic heart disease in cats. It mainly affects breeds like Maine Coons and Ragdolls, though it can also appear in others. It involves thickening of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow and lead to congestive heart failure or sudden death.
Signs to watch for include rapid breathing, lethargy, and fainting. Early detection through echocardiograms, a noninvasive imaging test, is crucial for effective treatment and management.
Skin problems are among the most frequent health issues seen in cats. While some may seem mild at first glance, untreated conditions can lead to chronic discomfort, infections, or even serious systemic illness.
Flea bites are irritating to any cat, but for those with flea allergy dermatitis, even a single bite can trigger an intense allergic reaction. This condition is one of the most common dermatological issues in felines.
Despite its name, ringworm isn’t a worm at all. Instead, it’s a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and sometimes claws. Young cats and long-haired breeds typically get ringworm most often.
Ringworm is highly contagious to other pets and humans, making it a zoonotic disease. The fungal spores responsible can survive in the environment for several months, which significantly increases the risk of reinfection if thorough cleaning and disinfection are not carried out.
Much like in humans, feline acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, debris, and bacteria. It often appears on the chin and lips. Cats are lucky that they have hair to cover it up, when our acne is out and about for the world to see.
Mange in cats is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into or live on the skin. Though less common than in dogs, feline mange can cause significant distress, as one might imagine.
To prevent the possibility of mange and or mites in cats, it’s essential to do routine vet checkups and skin scrapings to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Make sure you are regularly cleaning bedding and grooming tools. If your cat is diagnosed with either mange or mites, prescription antiparasitic treatments will be prescribed to help get rid of the issue.
Outdoor cats face a unique set of health challenges compared to indoor cats. Exposure to the elements, interactions with other animals, and possible limited access to regular veterinary care increase their risk of contracting infectious diseases, parasites, and injuries.
Toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is usually contracted through the consumption of infected prey or contaminated soil. While cats often show mild or no symptoms, the infection can be dangerous for immunocompromised cats and poses risks to humans as it's a zoonotic disease.
Outdoor cats often get into territorial disputes, which can lead to bite or scratch wounds. These wounds frequently become infected and develop into abscesses, painful, pus-filled swellings that require drainage and antibiotics.
Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are very common in outdoor cats. These parasites can transmit other diseases, cause anemia, and lead to chronic discomfort if untreated.
Often spread through bite wounds, FIV weakens a cat’s immune system, making it more vulnerable to secondary infections. Stray cats are at exceptionally high risk due to frequent fighting.
Highly prevalent in stray and feral cats, FeLV suppresses the immune system and can cause cancer, anemia, and other severe illnesses. Transmission occurs through saliva, blood, and close contact.
Upper respiratory infections caused by viruses like feline herpesvirus and calicivirus are widespread in stray populations. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, and eye infections.
Stray cats often struggle with poor diets, leading to weakened immune systems, weight loss, and conditions like fatty liver disease.
Feral cats are at higher risk of rabies due to encounters with wildlife. This fatal viral disease is zoonotic (spread to humans), making vaccination programs essential.
Also known as feline distemper, panleukopenia is highly contagious and often fatal in feral populations. It spreads rapidly through shared food bowls, litter, and grooming. Therefore, if your outdoor cat is hanging out with the feral crowd, it's possible they could contract this disease.
Feral cats frequently carry heavy parasite burdens, from fleas and ticks to intestinal worms. This not only affects their health but can also spread parasites to pets and humans.
Protecting cats from preventable diseases starts with knowledge and proactive care. Whether it’s keeping your cat indoors, ensuring regular vet visits, or practicing good hygiene to reduce transmission risks, small steps make a big difference. Your actions can help create a healthier, safer world for cats and the people who love them.
An action worth considering is purchasing TRI-ACTA for your cat to help maintain joint health, reduce inflammation, and support overall mobility.
Purchase TRI-ACTA online or learn where to buy at a store near you.
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