| Health A-Z Unless you're a trained expert, the language used to describe your cat's health can often be confusing. Our simple health encyclopaedia translates a selection of the most common terms into plain English - to help you understand exactly what your vet is telling you. To see a similar glossary of nutritional terms click here.Select term alphabetically, or by scrolling the list. To read a description, click on the term selected. When appropriate, links to further reading are supplied. Abscess An infected swelling, often seen on the tail, head or back of a cat. Usually caused by a bite. Affected animals feel unwell, may go off their food or run a high temperature, so veterinary attention is usually required. The abscess may rupture and pus will leak out. Aggression Cats that are aggressive can be very dangerous and veterinary advice should be sought if a cat is persistently aggressive towards people. There are many different causes of aggressive behaviour ranging from fear, to over-exuberant play.
Aggressive Cats Allergies In cats, typically related to food or parasites such as fleas. Symptoms include: itchy skin, recurrent ear infections, scratching, hair loss, hot spots, skin abrasions, diarrhoea and vomiting. Commonly diagnosed through a 12-week elimination diet trial, under veterinary supervision.
Food Allergies
Special Diets Alopecia Hair loss due to any cause. One of the most common causes of hair loss in cats is an allergy to flea bites.
Hair Loss
Fleas & Ticks Amputation Usually the result of paralysis or a serious injury. Most cats quickly recover from the operation, and many, if only one limb is removed, soon learn to walk again.
Amputation Anaemia Anaemia occurs when there is a decreased amount of red blood cells, or the amount of haemoglobin in the cells, in the circulatory system. There are many different causes of anaemia in cats including blood loss due to haemorrhage, the presence of blood parasites, or viruses such as feline leukaemia. Antibodies Part of the body's natural defence systems, produced to combat infections and invading substances recognised as not belonging to the body, such as viruses and bacteria. On occasion antibodies can be produced inappropriately by the body, for example in response to a protein in food, resulting in an allergic reaction. Antioxidant Literally meaning 'against oxidation', antioxidants strengthen your cat's immune system, destroying free radicals and keeping the body cells in balance. A good example is vitamin E.
Getting The Balance Right Arthritis Severe inflammation of the joints, often suffered by older cats. Affected cats may have difficulty standing after lying down for sustained periods. Tell your vet who may be able to provide some pain relief and/or suggest a dietary change to delay the progression of the condition.
Caring For Older Cats Artificial Respiration If your cat stops breathing, you may need to perform artificial respiration to keep the essential supply of oxygen to the blood. Press very gently down on the chest with thumbs and fingertips. Allow the lungs to refill with fresh air. Repeat every five seconds until your cat starts to breathe. If there is no sign of life after 30 seconds, try mouth-to-nose respiration. Tilt back your cat's head, hold the mouth shut and blow short gentle breaths into both nostrils for three seconds to inflate the lungs. Be careful not to over inflate the lungs.
Resuscitation Asthma Like humans, cats can develop an allergic reaction to inhaled pollen, or house dust mite faeces. Symptoms can include: wheezing, coughing, and even vomiting - just like a human allergy sufferer. Your vet could prescribe steroids with an anti-inflammatory action. If diagnosed early, structural changes to the lungs and airways are usually reversed, and damage minimised. Bladder Stones Cats can develop a stone-like object, called a Urolith, in the bladder, and less commonly, in the kidney. They are very often associated with blood in the urine, increased frequency of urination, and difficulty passing urine. Uroliths can cause partial or total obstruction of the urethra (the tube leading from the bladder outside the body), so little or no urine can pass. Contact your vet immediately if you see your cat visiting the litter tray frequently, and straining to urinate.
Urinary Tract Health Booster Top up vaccinations, given to cats one year after initial vaccination and then at yearly intervals, or as advised by your vet.
Vaccinations Calculus Another name for tartar, plaque on the surface of the tooth that has mineralised to produce a hard, brown-coloured deposit. Consult your veterinarian for dental health advice.
Dental Care Calicivirus Feline virus that causes lethargy, loss of appetite, sneezing, conjunctivitis, and ulceration of the hard palate and tongue. Some strains of the virus may produce limping, especially in kittens. Cardiomyopathy A disease of the heart muscle that can result in heart failure. Two types exist: dilated or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy is associated with insufficient taurine in the diet. Cats cannot manufacture taurine themselves, although it is essential, which is why commercially perpared cat foods include taurine in sufficient quantities. Cat 'Flu Caused by either feline calicivirus (FVC) or feline herpesvirus (FHV), cat 'flu is spread by direct contact from one cat to another - by sniffing each other, mutual grooming, and sharing feeding bowls. It is not spread to humans or other animals but can be carried by people on their feet or clothing. To prevent 'flu in a healthy cat, ask your vet about 'flu vaccinations. The main symptoms of 'flu are sneezing and runny eyes, a high temperature, blocked nose, mouth ulcers and swollen lymph nodes under the chin. Chiggers Harvest mites. These are small orange-red mites that cause intense itching, particularly on the feet, at harvest time. Chlamydophila Bacteria that can cause eye infections in cats. Affected cats may also suffer from mild flu like illness. Several weeks of antibiotics are required to treat this infection. A vaccine is also available. Compulsive Disorder Characterised by recurrent obsessions or compulsions that are severe enough to be time-consuming, or cause marked distress. Talk to your vet or an animal behavioural counsellor. Constipation Abnormally delayed or infrequent passing of stools - usually dry and hardened. Often can be caused by swallowed bones, or a hairball blocking your cat's bowel, constipation is more frequent in elderly, inactive cats. Symptoms include lethargy and disinterest in food, adoption of a crouching position, and straining to pass a motion. However, the more serious condition of urinary obstruction can look like constipation. If symptoms persist, talk to your vet. Creatinine A substance produced by body metabolism that is normally excreted from the body by the kidney. If the kidneys are damaged the body retains the creatinine and levels in the blood will rise. The level of creatinine in the blood is commonly used as part of the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney disease. Cystitis An inflammation of the bladder caused by a bacterial infection, or associated with Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). Contact your vet immediately, who will treat with antibiotics to kill the bacteria.
Urinary Tract Health Dehydration A serious and potentially life-threatening condition, in which a cat's body contains an insufficient volume of water for normal functioning. As in humans, there are many potential causes of dehydration including severe vomiting or diarrhoea, diabetes, or extensive bleeding, Dehydration can be fatal if fluids are not replaced swiftly. It is essential to discover the origin of the condition. Dermatitis Inflammation of the skin, from a variety of causes, such as a food allergy or parasitical infestation. Diabetes A fairly common disease, often caused by inadequate production of insulin by the pancreas. Cats develop hyperglycaemia - unusually high blood sugar levels. Classic signs are excessive thirst and urination, a ravenous appetite, and weight loss. Additional symptoms of appetite loss, weakness, vomiting, dehydration and a strong smell of 'pear drops' on the breath, can indicate a dangerous state called ketoacidosis. This condition is fatal if not treated promptly. Diabetes is diagnosed by a blood or urine test. Some diabetic cats need life-long treatment with insulin injections to control blood sugar levels. Diarrhoea This can be caused by an abrupt change in diet, internal parasites (worms), ingestion of a foreign body, or more serious illnesses. Talk to your vet if the diarrhoea continues for more than 24 hours. Ear Mites External parasites that invade the ear and cause itchiness, redness and sometimes severe infection. You may not be able to see the individual mites, but you may see a dark discharge in your cat's ear. If your cat shakes or scratches his or her ears persistently, take to your vet for cleaning and ear drops. The drops kill the adult mites, but not their eggs, so use the drops for the entire period the vet recommends to eradicate the problem. Treat all cats and dogs in your household, as mites are very contagious. Eclampsia Also called milk fever. A calcium deficiency during pregnancy or the first three weeks after labour. Typically characterized by twitching, nervousness, restlessness and a stiff, painful gait. A potentially life threatening condition.
Warning Signs Euthanasia Usually due to ageing or serious illness; when your cat's quality of life will deteriorate markedly. The vet will administer a measured overdose of anaesthetic, and your cat will quickly slip into a deep and permanent sleep with no pain or distress.
Putting Your Cat To Sleep Eye Disorders A normal part of the ageing process is often eye discolouration. Usually this does not interfere with vision and does not need treatment. Some cats develop cataracts, but they are relatively uncommon. If your cat's eyes become red and watery, he or she could have conjunctivitis. Talk to your vet if the condition persists. Feline Coronavirus (FcoV) A very contagious virus, usually shed in the faeces and saliva of infected cats. Feline Dysautonomia / Keye Gaskell Syndrome A condition seen only sporadically in cats. Associated with problems of the oesophagus and colon. The cause is, as yet, unknown. Feline Hyperaesthesia Literally meaning 'exaggerated sensation'. Exaggerated behaviour and apparent signs of pain may result from just ordinary touching of the cat. It can be difficult to diagnose why this occurs, but causes include dermatitis, bite wounds, inflammation and excessive Vitamin A in the diet. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Often referred to as 'Cat AIDS', FIV is commonest in feral cats and older free-roaming male cats that get into fights. Six to eight weeks after infection, cats may develop raised lymph nodes, a high temperature, lethargy, diarrhoea or conjunctivitis. The virus depletes the number of white blood cells, eventually impairing the cat's ability to fight infection. No vaccine currently exists. Feline Infectious Enteritis (FIE) A serious viral infection of the intestines that mainly affects kittens and young cats. FIE is an example of a Parvovirus. It is highly contagious and can be spread by direct or indirect contact with an infectious cat. Symptoms include appearing thirsty but refusing to drink, vomiting a yellow or brown liquid, fever, loss of appetite, and profuse diarrhoea. See your vet immediately, and isolate your cat from other pets. The virus can remain in your home environment for up to a year, so ask your vet about disinfecting your home - and avoid visits from other cat-owners', as the virus can be carried on clothes and shoes. An effective vaccine exists. Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) A fatal disease occurring in approximately one tenth of cats infected with Feline Coronavirus, FIP takes two forms, 'wet' and 'dry'. In 'wet' FIP, fluid accumulates in the cat's abdomen, causing it to look overweight. Cats with 'dry' FIP lose weight, have a raised temperature, lose interest in food and exhibit a dull depression. Most have eye abnormalities, such as an iris changing colour, or bleeding into the front of the eye. Ask your vet about tests that detect either antibodies or virus. The main treatment is corticosteroids or antibiotics - but this is a serious disease and treatments may provide only temporary help. Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) Causes deficiencies in the cat's immune system, anaemia and tumours. FeLV is transmitted by direct contact from one cat to another, particularly if licking each other. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, pale mucous membranes, and laboured breathing. Kittens under four months old are particularly susceptible; after this age, there is increased resistance. All cats and kittens can be tested for FeLV from birth onwards, and can be vaccinated. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) A term that refers to a number of serious conditions affecting a cat's urinary tract. Clinical signs include straining to urinate and the passing presence of blood in the urine. If your cat is straining and crying while trying to urinate, and there is blood in the urine, take a fresh sample to your vet.
Urinary Tract Health Feline Parvovirus (FPV) A hardy virus that survives for up to a year in the environment and needs special disinfectants to kill it. Kittens are the most vulnerable. Look for vomiting, or froth around the lips, or hunching over a food or water bowl, but unable to eat or drink. Your vet will take samples of your cat's blood and faeces to test for the virus and antibodies. Providing it is caught early, nursing and drip-feeding can help recovery. If your cat is healthy, ask your vet about preventative vaccines. Fleas The most common external parasites found on your cat. Fleas are dark brown, the size of a pinhead, and can cause dogs to scratch, twitch or lick frenziedly. Flea droppings look like coal dust in your cat's coat. Some cats have allergic reactions to fleabites, more specifically flea saliva. Flea control must be performed on the cat and in the environment. Consult your vet for canine-safe flea control tips. Use both a topical product to kill adult fleas, and an insect development inhibitor, to prevent the eggs developing into adults.
Fleas & Ticks Free Radicals Reactive substances created in the body during normal metabolism - but often triggered to extreme by ageing and stress - that seek other healthy molecules to damage or destroy. Minimised by antioxidants in the body. Geriatric Used to describe an older animal, over eight years.
Caring For Older Cats
Feeding Your Older Cat Gingivitis Cats can develop sore gums if they are allowed to accumulate plaque (food debris and bacteria) on the outside of their teeth. This hardens to form calculus. The bacteria can enter the bloodstream. Look out for bad breath, reddened gums, yellowish-brown tartar on teeth, and drooling. Consult your veterinarian for dental health advice.
Dental Care Hairball A mass of hair, swallowed during grooming, that lodges in the gut and may be vomited up. A variety of manufactured cat foods contain ingredients such as indigestible fibre to ease the passage of hairballs through the gut.
Feeding an Indoor Cat Halitosis Bad breath, often caused by rotting food and bacteria between the teeth. Consult your veterinarian for dental health advice.
Dental Care Heart Disease As common in cats as it is in people. May be congenital or acquired. Look for a lack of energy, not wanting to be moved, coughing and laboured breathing. Call your vet promptly. Heatstroke Severe heat exhaustion, resulting in collapse. Hypersensitivity An over-reaction of the body in response to something normally harmless to other animals of the same breed or species, usually an allergen. Hyperthyroidism One of the most common diseases of middle-aged and older cats, caused by an increase in thyroid hormones due to an enlarged thyroid gland. Symptoms include weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, increased thirst and urination, hyperactivity, and diarrhoea. Treatment includes radioactive iodine, surgical removal of the gland, and anti-thyroid medication. Hypoglycema Low levels of glucose in the blood; low blood sugar. Hypothermia A state of extremely low body temperature. Inflammatory Bowel Disease The name for a group of gastrointestinal disorders that affect cats' stomachs or intestinal tract function. Symptoms include chronic vomiting, diarrhoea, and in some cases, weight loss and change in appetite. Some cats may defecate outside the litter tray, especially if diarrhoea is present. Intolerances Where, for any reason, an individual animal may be unable to 'tolerate' a particular substance (usually a foodstuff) because its own individual system cannot cope with it. It is a type of adverse reaction that does not involve the immune system. Typical signs of an intolerance include digestive upset and skin problems. Food allergies differ from intolerances because they involve the immune system.
Food Allergies
Special Diets Kidney (Renal) Disease Common in older cats. If your cat is drinking excessive amounts and urinating frequently, he or she might be suffering from kidney disease. Keep a clean litter tray accessible at all times, and provide your cat with plenty of fresh water. Report any symptoms to your vet. Lice Small parasites, invisible to the human eye. Signs of infestation are the same as for other pests: frantic biting and chewing at the coat. Unlike fleas, lice cannot be transferred to humans or other species. See your vet if these symptoms persist. Mastitis Inflammation of the teats generally as the result of feeding a newborn litter.
Warning Signs
Labour and Birth Metabolism The sum of all basic physical and chemical bodily processes that keep a body healthy and functioning. Mites Small parasites, invisible to the human eye. Signs of infestation are the same as for other pests: frantic biting and chewing at the coat. See your vet if these symptoms persist. Neutering Male castration involving the removal of the testicles. The operation is simple, painless and safe, and typically results in a much calmer and more affectionate cat, less vulnerable to certain diseases in later years, including cancer. Although specific to males, the term is commonly used to cover female 'spaying' also.
Neutering Obesity Approximately one in three cats in the UK are overweight or obese. Overfeeding and lack of exercise are the principle causes. Encouraging the cat to play, feeding portion-controlled meals and cutting out food treats (including milk) will help most cats lose weight. A light diet can also make a difference. Weight loss should be gradual and very overweight cats will benefit from veterinary supervision of their weight loss program.
If Your Cat is Overweight Parasite A creature that lives, usually at the expense, on a second, host creature, for instance the flea or intestinal worm. Pica Eating of non-food items such as wool and fabrics. This is believed to be an inherited condition, mainly some pedigree groups. Plaque Soft material that accumulates on tooth surfaces. Plaque is mainly made up of bacteria and can cause gum disease. Plaque can be removed from cats' teeth by brushing, providing toys that can be chewed on and by feeding some dry cat foods and dental treats. Consult your veterinarian for dental health advice.
Dental Care Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) An inherited disease found particularly in Persian cats between 3 and 10 years old, PKD causes enlarged kidneys and kidney dysfunction. Symptoms include: depression, lack of or reduced appetite, excessive thirst, urination and weight loss. Ultrasound or radiography is used to diagnose PKD. Polydipsia Excessive thirst. Can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes or a number of other conditions. Polyps A growth or mass protruding from a mucous membrane. Can occur wherever mucous membranes exist: in the nose, ears, mouth, lungs, heart, stomach, intestines, urinary bladder, uterus and cervix. Polyuria Excessive urination. Can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes or a number of other conditions. Rabies Caused by a virus found in the saliva of infected animals, and transmitted to pets and humans by bites, or contamination of an open cut. Untreated, rabies causes a painful death. If your cat has been bitten or attacked by a wild animal, and has bites or scratches of unknown origin, contact your vet to report the incident. Ringworm An infection caused by a fungus that grows in hair and nails. It is contagious, and can be spread from cats to humans. Laboratory testing is the only reliable way to reach a diagnosis, as some cats with ringworm appear healthy. Treatment includes anti-fungal drugs administered by mouth or shampoos or dips or clipping of hair. Roundworm A parasite that lives in a cat's intestine and lives off partially digested food. The generic term 'worms' is usually used to describe Roundworms - the most common of all the feline worms. Severe infection, if left untreated, can create intestinal obstruction and even cause death in kittens. Shock Not to be confused with fright, this is a serious psychological condition characterised by panting, rapid or shallow breathing, inability to stand, enlarged pupils, cold ears and paws, paleness and eventually collapse. Contact your vet immediately.
Treating Shock Spaying An operation to remove a cat's womb and ovaries. Spaying is simple, painless and safe.
Neutering Tapeworm Most often found in adult cats that roam or hunt outside, Tapeworm are intestinal parasites that feed on semi-digested food in the stomach. Spread by an intermediate host, the cat flea, or small rodents or birds. If a cat eats an infected flea or prey, the worm larvae hatch into the gut, mature into adult tapeworms that fix onto the gut wall, while the rest of the body is passed out into the environment via the faeces. A heavy infestation can cause weight loss and poor condition, digestive upsets and anal irritation. Worm your cat regularly and keep him or her flea-free. Prevention and treatments are widely available. Ticks Ticks are tenacious bloodsuckers that bury their heads under a dog's skin. Usually found on the front of the cat, they look like small warts. It is a good idea to examine your cat for ticks after he or she goes outside. It's best to get your vet to show you how to remove them safely.
Fleas & Ticks Toxoplasmosis Cats commonly pick up an intestinal parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, by eating infected prey or raw meat. There is a slight risk that if you handle cat faeces and put your hands near your mouth, your unborn child could develop a birth defect. If you are pregnant, avoid handling cat litter and wear gloves when gardening. Tumours These can occur in nearly any part of your cat's body, but pay special attention to persistent swelling or inflammation in the mammary glands, particularly in unspayed females. Early detection and treatment give your cat the best chance of survival. Urolith A stone-like object in the bladder, and less commonly, in the kidney. Often associated with blood in the urine, increased frequency of urination, and difficulty passing urine. Uroliths can cause partial or total obstruction of the urethra. Contact your vet immediately if you see your cat visiting the litter tray frequently, and straining to urinate. Vomiting The expulsion of bile or digested food, commonly associated with an underlying condition. Regurgitation, or expulsion of bile-free undigested food is often caused by hairballs and can be normal, but it's worth consulting your vet just in case. |