Cats are small, but they have pretty big purrsonalities. Fluffy is also quite charismatic, and sometimes a bit demanding. Your pet may not speak your language, but she won’t have a hard time getting her point across when she wants to let you know she wants food or cuddles, or when she wants you to rescue her catnip mouse from beneath the couch. However, kitties aren’t quite as forthcoming about letting on that they don’t feel well. A Tampa, FL vet lists some warning signs to look for below.
Grumpiness
Being in pain isn’t much of a mood booster for anyone. This applies to cats as well as people. If your kitty seems uncharacteristically cranky, there may be something going on with her. Fluffy may also wince, hiss, or even bite if you touch a sore spot.
Withdrawal
Cats often become quite antisocial when they don’t feel well. That isn’t to say that you should immediately worry if you find Fluffy snoozing under the bed or in a closet. However, if your furball doesn’t want to leave her hiding place, she may be sick or in pain.
Lack of Interest In Play
It’s normal for pets to slow down as they age. However, even senior cats will have their frisky moments. If Fluffy suddenly loses interest in chasing that red dot or pouncing on her catnip toys, she may be sick.
Unusual Behavior
Watch for anything that is out of character for your feline friend, such as changes in vocalizations, behavior, and/or food and water consumption. Diarrhea, vomiting, litterbox woes, and lethargy are also warning signs.
Stiffness
Visible stiffness is another red flag. Keep in mind that cats often try to hide signs of illness or injury. By the time Fluffy is noticeably stiff and sore, she may really be hurting.
Poor Grooming
Kitties are usually very dedicated to their beauty rituals. Fluffy may spend hours each day carefully grooming herself. However, if she is sick or in pain, she may neglect her coat. It won’t take long for her fur to start looking greasy and/or unkempt.
Licking
Another thing to watch for is constant licking or nibbling at a specific spot. This is very common in dogs, but cats sometimes do it too.
Please contact, your local Tampa, FL vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
