If you are concerned about your cat’s behaviour, then it’s probably a good idea to bring them in to the vet. Cat owners would look for changes in eating or grooming habits as well as decreases in activity levels. If you see these changes in your cat, they are likely ill and/or injured and need medical attention. When cats are brought in and treated early in their illness, this minimizes treatments and costs, and prevents them from suffering needlessly.
How can I tell if my cat needs to see the vet?
In addition to the changes in eating, grooming and activity, we advise you to seek veterinary help when you notice the following in your cat:
- Sore areas and/or sudden descreases in activity – they will react by growling, clawing or biting at you if you touch a sore spot.This may indicate injury or abcess, broken bones or arthritis in older cats.
- Limping or favoring a leg/paw – requires attention as it may indicate abcess, loss of claws, fight/vehicle injury.
- Missing claws or bleeding from claws – these can be lost in a fight and need to be checked by a vet.
- Bleeding wounds – cats with bites and/or claws wounds or open wounds need medical treatment to prevent abcesses from forming.
- Vomiting- 1X – Cats vomit to get rid of undigestable or disagreeable items they’ve eaten. This is fairly common and rarely needs attention.
- Vomiting – repeatedly in one day or repeated daily. Most cats do not vomit repeatedly or continuously. This may indicate they have ingested poison or have a gi obstruction.
- Diarrhea or any changes in bowel habits
- Incontinence
If you have any concerns or questions about any of these items, please contact your local Care Pet Wellness office and they will help you to make the best decision for your cat.