Common Cat Health Problems: Symptoms and When to See a Vet (2026)
Learn to recognize the signs of common feline illnesses, from URIs to kidney disease. This essential guide helps you know when to monitor and when to seek emergency veterinary care.
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Common Cat Health Problems: Symptoms and When to See a Vet (2026)
Cats are masters at concealing discomfort, a survival instinct that often delays crucial diagnosis. Recognizing the early warning signs of common health issues can be lifesaving. This comprehensive guide details the most frequent feline ailments, their symptoms, preventive strategies, and clear guidelines for when to seek veterinary care.
Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)
What Is It?
Often called the "common cold" of cats, URIs are typically caused by viruses like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus.
Symptoms
Sneezing and nasal discharge (clear or colored)
Watery, red, or goopy eyes
Loss of appetite or interest in food
Lethargy and reduced activity
Fever
Mouth ulcers (common with calicivirus)
When to See a Vet
Emergency: Difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing, or extreme lethargy.
Within 24 Hours: Refusal to eat or drink for more than a day.
Monitor at Home: Mild, occasional sneezing in an otherwise healthy, vaccinated adult cat.
Prevention
Maintain current FVRCP vaccinations.
Quarantine new cats for 10-14 days before introduction.
Minimize stress in multi-cat environments.
Ensure good ventilation and air quality.
Urinary Tract Issues
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Bacterial infections more common in older cats, particularly females.
Symptoms
Frequent trips to the litter box with little output
Straining or crying while urinating
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Urinating outside the litter box
Excessive licking of the genital area
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
An umbrella term for various conditions, including urinary crystals, stones, and idiopathic cystitis (inflammation without infection).
Symptoms
Straining to urinate
Producing only small amounts of urine
Blood in urine
Vocalizing in the litter box
Increased agitation or hiding
Urinary Blockage (A True Emergency)
A life-threatening obstruction, most common in male cats due to their narrow urethra.
Acute (short-term): Often due to diet change, parasites, or infection.
Chronic (ongoing): Requires diagnostic workup for conditions like IBD, parasites, or food allergies.
When to See a Vet
Blood (red or black, tarry) in the vomit or stool.
Diarrhea or vomiting lasting more than 24-48 hours.
Symptoms accompanied by lethargy, pain, or fever.
Any episode paired with a known toxin ingestion.
Constipation
Particularly common in older, dehydrated, or sedentary cats.
Symptoms
Straining in the litter box with little or no production.
Passing small, hard, dry stools.
Crying or showing pain while defecating.
Loss of appetite and lethargy.
Emergency Situations: When to Go to the ER Immediately
Life-Threatening Emergencies
Respiratory Distress: Difficulty breathing, choking, blue gums.
Suspected Urinary Blockage: Especially in male cats—straining with no urine.
Uncontrolled Bleeding: From any wound.
Collapse or Sudden Inability to Stand.
Seizures lasting more than a few minutes or multiple seizures in a row.
Major Trauma: Hit by car, high-rise fall, animal attack.
Known or Suspected Poisoning: Antifreeze, lilies, human medications, rodenticides.
Profuse Vomiting/Diarrhea with signs of dehydration (lethargy, dry gums).
Dystocia: Labor lasting over 60 minutes of active straining with no kitten produced.
Heatstroke: Panting, distress, high temperature.
Be Prepared
Identify and save the contact info for your nearest 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic.
Keep your cat's carrier easily accessible.
Learn basic pet first aid and CPR.
Preventive Care: The Foundation of Feline Health
Regular Veterinary Visits
Kittens: Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old for vaccines and checks.
Proactive, informed care is the cornerstone of your cat's longevity and well-being. While vigilance is important, it's equally crucial to avoid unnecessary anxiety over every minor change. Strive for a balanced approach.
Key Takeaways:
Cats are Stoic: Subtle changes in behavior or routine are often the first and only signs of illness.
Prevention is Paramount: Consistent vet visits, vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care prevent major issues.
Early Intervention Saves Lives: Many conditions are more manageable and less costly when caught early.
You Are the Expert: You know your cat best. If something feels "off," trust your intuition and consult your veterinarian.
Have an Emergency Plan: Know where to go and what to do before a crisis occurs.
By combining knowledge, preventive care, and a strong partnership with your veterinarian, you provide your feline companion with the best opportunity for a vibrant, healthy life.
When in doubt, always contact your veterinarian. It's better to err on the side of caution.
Sources: American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), Cornell Feline Health Center, International Cat Care, Veterinary Centers of America (VCA)