Our cats are important to us—they’re a big part of our families. Preventing common illnesses can help your cat live a long and happy life. With regular veterinary checkups and preventive medicine from East Valley Animal Hospital, your cat will be able to enjoy good health for many years to come.
Three Common Cat Illnesses
Just like diabetes in humans, diabetes in cats is a common disease that affects insulin levels. Signs of diabetes in cats include dehydration, sudden weight loss, and increased appetite. While diabetes in cats can be treated, it isn’t curable, so the best approach is prevention.
Overweight and obese cats are usually at the highest risk for developing diabetes. Monitor what your cat eats, and schedule their feedings instead of free-feeding to help with weight management. Choosing a balanced diet for your cat that is higher in protein and lower in carbs can also help to keep your cat at a healthy weight.
2: Chronic Kidney Disease
If the kidneys lose their proper function as your cat ages, they could develop chronic kidney disease. This problematic condition can lead to issues like hypertension or damage to other organs. Cats experiencing chronic kidney disease will often become lethargic, lose weight rapidly, and urinate in large volumes. There is no cure for chronic kidney disease, but it can be treated to improve quality of life for cats.
Although chronic kidney disease is usually genetic, there are things you can do to prevent it. Be sure to provide fresh drinking water 24/7 to help prevent urinary tract infections, which can cause damage to the kidneys. Keep all known toxins (antifreeze and lilies, for example) away from your cat to reduce their chances of toxic exposure.
3: Tooth Resorption
Tooth Resorption is one of the most common cat dental issues. When the enamel on a cat’s teeth breaks down, it exposes the inner parts of the tooth and causes extreme nerve pain. Cats suffering from tooth resorption will often be in too much pain to eat and go days without eating, which can cause issues like hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver syndrome).
The treatment for tooth resorption differs case to case, but it often requires extraction of the affected tooth. While there is no proven cause of tooth resorption, there are some things you can do to prevent it. Routine wellness exams and at-home dental hygiene are the best ways to stay ahead of tooth resorption.
Never Skip a Wellness Exam
One of the best ways to prevent common cat illnesses is to bring your cat to East Valley Animal Hospital twice a year for a wellness exam. That way we can identify and treat any illnesses that arise before they become severe. If you are looking for a vet in the Gilbert, Arizona area, we would love to have you as part of our family. Call 480-568-2462 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today.