Signs of Illness
Even with good care, your kitten may not always be in the best of health.
She may have a flurry of sneezes or a coughing spell. She may vomit occasionally, even if she is not seriously ill. But if these symptoms persist, don’t ignore them. Take her to the veterinarian right away.
Other signs to watch for, which indicate that your cat may need veterinary attention include:
- Severe diarrhea which persists for more than 24 hours, or accompanies other signs of illness
- Constipation which persists for more than 24 hours
- Persistent vomiting or vomiting of a greenish-yellow bile; or vomiting blood which colours the vomit dark red, brown or black
- Laboured breathing or panting
- Straining to urinate or blood in the urine
- Acute swelling or small body lumps which gradually increase in size
- Lameness or pain
- Loss of appetite for several days in a row
- Sudden loss of weight or weight gain
- A dull, patchy coat which sheds heavily
- Red, watery eyes or nasal discharge
- Lying or crouching listlessly
- Failure to wash herself
- Failure to use the litter box
- Increased urination or thirst
- Hiding in dark places
- Resents or resists handling
- Scratching or biting by a normally even-tempered kitten or cat
