HEALTH

Common Cat Health Problems and How to Spot Them

The most common health problems in pet cats include dental disease, obesity, urinary tract problems, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, parasites and respiratory infections. Many are easier to treat when caught early, so yearly vet checks, a healthy weight and knowing the warning signs matter more than any single product.

By the CatCorners editorial team · Updated · 3 min read

What are the most common health problems in cats?

Cats hide illness well, so small changes in eating, drinking, litter box use, grooming or energy are often the first clue. These conditions come up most often in pet cats:

  • Dental disease. Plaque and gum disease are very common in adult cats and cause bad breath, drooling, pain and difficulty eating. Regular dental checks and home tooth brushing help.
  • Overweight and obesity. Extra weight raises the risk of diabetes, joint problems and other illness. Measure meals and keep your cat active with play.
  • Lower urinary tract disease. Straining, frequent trips to the litter box, blood in urine or urinating outside the box can be signs of urinary problems, which can be triggered by stress, diet or crystals and stones.
  • Chronic kidney disease. More common in older cats. Early signs include increased drinking and urination and weight loss.
  • Hyperthyroidism. Seen in older cats: weight loss despite a good appetite, restlessness, a poor coat and sometimes vomiting.
  • Diabetes. Increased thirst, urination and appetite with weight loss. It is more common in overweight cats.
  • Parasites. Fleas, intestinal worms and ear mites are common, and even indoor cats can get fleas. Ask your vet about year-round prevention that suits your cat.
  • Upper respiratory infections. Sneezing, runny eyes or nose and sometimes mouth ulcers, often seen in kittens and cats from shelters.
  • Arthritis. Often missed: reluctance to jump, stiffness, and less grooming can be signs of joint pain, not just "slowing down".

How can I help prevent health problems?

  1. Book a vet check at least once a year, and twice a year for seniors, so changes are caught early.
  2. Keep vaccinations and parasite control up to date according to your vet's advice for your cat's age and lifestyle.
  3. Keep your cat at a healthy weight with measured portions (see wet vs dry food).
  4. Meet your cat's environmental needs. The AAFP and ISFM guidelines recommend a safe place, several separate resources (food, water, litter, scratching, rest), play, gentle consistent interaction and respect for your cat's sense of smell. Stress can contribute to illness, including urinary problems.
  5. Spay or neuter and microchip your cat, and keep a current ID tag.

When is it an emergency?

Call a veterinarian immediately or go to an emergency clinic if your cat:

  • is straining to urinate or cannot pass urine, especially a male cat
  • has open-mouth breathing, labored breathing or blue-tinged gums
  • collapses, has a seizure or cannot stand
  • has eaten something toxic, such as lilies, which are highly toxic to cats, or human medications
  • has been hit by a car or injured, or has repeated vomiting
  • has stopped eating for a day or more, particularly if overweight, because prolonged not eating can cause serious liver problems in cats

Read our emergency care guide for what to prepare in advance.

Note: this article is general information, not veterinary advice. Always talk to your veterinarian about your own cat's health and diet.

Sources and further reading