What are the common diseases of pet cats?
Pet cats can suffer from a variety of common diseases. Some of the most prevalent ones include: Viral Diseases，Parasitic Diseases，Bacterial and Fungal Infections，Chronic and Age-Related Diseases，Cancer and Tumors，Behavioral and Neurological Issues
Viral Diseases:
- Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) – Similar to a cold in humans, caused by viruses like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus.
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) – A contagious viral infection that weakens the immune system and can lead to cancer.
- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) – Similar to HIV in humans, it affects the immune system, making cats prone to infections.
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) – Caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus, often fatal in severe cases.
- Rabies – A deadly virus affecting the nervous system, preventable through vaccination.
Parasitic Diseases:
- Fleas and Ticks – External parasites that cause itching, anemia, and disease transmission.
- Ear Mites – Tiny parasites that cause severe itching and infections in the ears.
- Worms (Roundworms, Tapeworms, Hookworms, Heartworms) – Intestinal parasites that can cause digestive issues and malnutrition.
Bacterial and Fungal Infections:
- Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonellosis) – A bacterial infection transmitted by cat scratches or bites, which can affect humans too.
- Ringworm – A contagious fungal infection affecting the skin, fur, and nails.
Chronic and Age-Related Diseases:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) – Common in older cats, leading to gradual kidney failure.
- Diabetes Mellitus – A condition where the cat cannot regulate blood sugar properly, often requiring insulin treatment.
- Hyperthyroidism – An overactive thyroid gland leading to weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity.
- Obesity – Can lead to diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
- Arthritis – A degenerative joint disease that affects older cats, causing pain and reduced mobility.
- Dental Disease (Gingivitis, Periodontal Disease) – Plaque buildup leading to bad breath, gum infections, and tooth loss.
Cancer and Tumors:
- Lymphoma – A common cancer in cats, often linked to FeLV.
- Mammary Tumors – More common in unspayed female cats.
Behavioral and Neurological Issues:
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) – A group of conditions causing painful urination, bladder stones, or infections.
- Epilepsy and Seizures – Can be caused by various underlying conditions, including brain disorders.
Would you like advice on prevention and treatment for any specific condition?
