Signs of Cat Health
Visible signs on the outside can provide clues to how your cat is feeling on the inside.
Whole body health means your cat feels good physically and mentally, from the inside out. Cats don’t often show us how they’re feeling, which is why it’s important to routinely monitor your cat for outward signs of your cat’s inner health.
These daily and weekly “check-ins” can help you monitor your cat’s whole body health and create a routine that strengthens your bond for a lifetime.
Has your cat has been eating more or less than usual? Check in with your cat’s baseline to see if her eating habits have changed. If they have changed drastically, this could be a sign of an underlying problem and may require a visit to the veterinarian.
It’s important for you to routinely check your cat’s body for any changes, such as lumps under the skin, and to also feel your cat’s ribs to assess a healthy body weight. If your cat is an unhealthy weight, you might feel her ribs protruding if she is too thin, or you might not be able to feel them at all if she is overweight. A healthy weight is important to your cat’s whole body health.
A shiny, glossy coat is one sign of a healthy cat. If your cat's coat looks dull or rough, this may be a sign of a health issue. Also, consult your veterinarian if your cat appears to have stopped grooming or is grooming excessively.
Pay attention to your cat’s eyes. At least once a month, make sure the eyes do not look cloudy or unclear, and check for any excessive drainage or discharge. These could be signs of a problem.
Watch for your cat's ability to focus, as well. Also, if you are able to see the third eyelid, this could mean something is wrong. The cat’s third eyelid is a white membrane that provides an extra layer of protection and is typically hidden behind the lower eyelid.
Litter Box Visits
When you’re conducting your routine cleaning of the litter box, keep an eye out for changes in your cat's bowel movements or urination, especially when it comes to frequency and/or quantity. Talk with your veterinarian if there are any irregularities.
Also, suddenly going outside of the litter box when there have been no changes to her box or environment can also indicate a potential problem.