If you are thinking about getting a cat or already have one, it is important to be familiar with some major cat health concerns. By educating yourself about common feline health problems, you can help ensure your furry friend will have a long, healthy life with you.
Common Cat Health Concerns
There are many potentially deadly viruses and diseases that can affect cats. Luckily, many of the most common ones are almost fully preventable through vaccination. Vaccinating your cat or kitten may be one of the most important decisions you make for the health of your pet. According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, all cats, regardless of breed, sex, or geographic location, should be vaccinated against the following diseases.
Feline Panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper) is caused by the feline parvovirus. This highly infectious disease is especially prevalent in catteries, shelters, and boarding facilities. The virus can remain active in the environment for months to years after it is introduced. Cats become infected with panleukopenia by coming into contact with the virus on litter boxes, bowls, or through contaminated feces. Panleukopenia is especially dangerous for kittens and can cause fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. Kittens should be vaccinated for panleukopenia at 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 4 weeks until they reach 16 weeks. After that, they should be vaccinated annually or every 3 years.
Feline Rhinotracheitis and Calicivirus are the two most common causes of upper respiratory diseases in cats. Caused by the herpesvirus or the calicivirus, both are highly contagious and can spread through nose-to-nose contact or by sharing infected items. Although these viruses are not usually life-threatening in adult cats, they can be fatal for kittens, and some cats that develop the virus may become chronic carriers. Vaccination should begin at 6-8 weeks of age and continue every 3-4 weeks until the cat is 16 weeks old. Afterward, booster shots are needed annually, or every three years, often combined with the panleukopenia vaccine in the form of an FVRCP vaccine.
Rabies is a deadly, untreatable illness transmitted through the bites of infected animals. The disease is always fatal, and due to their hunting nature, cats may come into contact with rabid animals. It is recommended (and in some states, required) that all cats be vaccinated for rabies, whether they are indoor or outdoor cats. Kittens should receive their initial vaccination at 16 weeks of age, followed by a booster at 1 year, and subsequent boosters every three years.
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system of infected cats. Highly contagious, it can spread through saliva, nasal discharge, or from an infected mother to her kittens. FeLV causes a range of health issues, including weight loss, lethargy, anemia, cancer, and infections. A simple blood test should be performed before vaccinating for FeLV to ensure the cat isn’t already a carrier. While vaccination for FeLV can have side effects, such as a vaccine-associated sarcoma (cancerous mass) at the injection site, the risk of contracting FeLV is greater than the potential vaccine reaction, especially in outdoor cats. Kittens should be vaccinated at 12-16 weeks, with a booster in 4 weeks, followed by annual vaccinations.
The best way to address your cat’s health concerns is to build a relationship with your veterinarian. Open communication will help you select the best vaccination protocol for your cat and ensure they remain healthy throughout their life.
Spaying or neutering your cat is not only the most effective way to prevent pet overpopulation, but it also provides significant health benefits. Female cats should be spayed (ovariohysterectomy) before they enter their first heat cycle (before 6 months of age) to reduce the risk of developing mammary (breast) cancer by almost 95% and eliminate the risk of ovarian or uterine cancer entirely. In male cats, neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer. It also reduces several behavior problems common in male cats, such as urine spraying, fighting with other cats, and the urge to roam in search of a mate. Like vaccinations, spaying and neutering is a simple way to ensure your cat’s health and well-being and reduce the suffering of unwanted cats and kittens.
Ensuring your cat is free of parasites is another important aspect of pet ownership. Your cat spends time in your lap, sleeps on your bed, and is part of your life. It’s important to make sure they aren’t harboring parasites, either inside or outside.
Routine fecal screening with your veterinarian can help detect and eliminate common internal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, coccidia, and Giardia. Many of these parasites can also be transmitted to humans, especially children, so regular screening is essential.
External parasites, such as fleas and ticks, should also be controlled. There are many effective products on the market that work well to kill fleas and ticks, preventing them from infesting your cat. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best product for your area and recommend the appropriate frequency of use. Fleas and ticks not only cause discomfort for your pet but can also transmit serious diseases like tapeworms and Lyme disease.
Throughout your cat’s life, regular veterinary visits will help identify health concerns early. Routine dental care, annual health exams, and, as your cat ages, annual blood and urine tests can help detect potential health problems early, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment before they become more serious.
