Cat Constipation - Just One of the Top 5 Symptoms of Feline Kidney Disease

Unless you have Superman's xray vision, it is unlikely that you've recently had a peek at your cat's kidneys. So how do you know if your feline friend has problems with those organs? A variety of diseases of the kidneys are called "Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) and are particularly common among older felines. Fortunately, you can keep an eye out for some telltale signs that your pet is suffering from feline kidney disease.



1.Anemia



When your cat's kidneys start failing, they are unable to create enough "erythropoietin," causing a certain type of anemia to occur. The animal typically experiences a variety of symptoms, including:



* licking of the lips



* faster heart rate



* loss of appetite



* weakness in the hind legs



* heavy breathing



* lethargy



* nausea



* cold feeling



* pale eyelids or nose



All of these signs are indicators that your cat could be suffering from anemia stemming from feline kidney disease.



2. Increase in drinking and urinating



This is the most observable symptom when your cat has one of the kidney diseases. The increase in drinking and urinating results from the organ's being unable to cluster the urine. So if you observe your animal with this symptom of CRF, then immediately schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.



3. Constipation



It's natural for your feline's bodies to attempt to save water by absorbing it from its stool. However, this practice becomes a problem when feline kidney disease is present, as dehydration is already a problem. Constipation occurs due to the lack of moisture. Your cat may be eating less; or even vomiting before, during, or right after having a stool. Also, defecating beside the litter tray is another symptom of constipation.



4. Incontinence



Basically, this means that your cat cannot control when it urinates. For instance, your cat may do it whenever it walks, lies, or sleeps. This could be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes, urinary tract infection, or that major renal damage has occurred.



5. Urinary Tract Infection



This is common because the feline's urine does not contain the proper levels of "good" bacteria and acidity. If you observed a little blood is in his urine, then its likely your little friend uses the litter pan more often, or produces a small amount or no urine. These are all signs of feline kidney disease.



All of these symptoms are signs that your pet could be suffering from sicknesses of the kidneys or other cat illness like a feline urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or even diabetes. If you spot any of them, its time to get your cat into the vet for a diagnosis.

Cat Health Symptoms

Everyone loves a cat and that's why they make great pets. Spotting some of the cat health symptoms is not that difficult. They don't need as much attention like a dog, simple to look after, gentle and very loving.



You could be forgiven for thinking they are 'designed' for indoors. They love to be inside. Even in smaller houses, cats adapt well and can be toilet trained in the smallest of spaces.



Although cats are easy to look after there are still a few diseases' which can strike very easily so it is best to know what to look out for.



A common skin disease in cats is ringworm. Your pet may contract ringworm from its bedding or other contaminated objects such as clippers or contact with other infected cats. Luckily, ringworm can easily be overcome with two tablespoons of colloidal silver for a week or a trip to the vet for medication.



And just like humans, some cats can become diabetic. The thought of your cat having diabetes may not seem pleasant but with a little research and understanding, you'll easily discover to look out for. But one thing to take note on is that this condition is not the same as human diabetes so it can not be treated the same. With a little education on the owners part, cats can enjoy a normal life when the right procedures are in place.



One of the more common diseases to watch for is obesity. Initial estimates suggest that over 1 out of every 10 cats is considered to be overweight or obese. The way to tackle this is to regulate the food intake of your pet cat. Don't leave a whole load of food in the feeding dish so that they can have a nibble as and when it pleases them. Try to go for one feed in the morning and one at night.



Another common and sometimes more troublesome problem is fleas. Once these are on the body of your cat, they multiply fast and they won't leave on their own. Fleas can cause your cat to scratch itself excessively which can lead to hair loss and infections. At your first suspicion that your cat may have fleas, treat it with one of the many treatments available to get rid of them quick. Ask your vet for his recommendation.



Urinary tract infections must also be looked for. If your cat decides to stop using the litter tray then this is probably because of a urinary tract. A visit to the vet will be required.



The basic advice is the best. Take your time to keep your pet cat away from any dangers. Don't have any plants which may contain poison in your house or other area your cat may be able to get at it. Small objects like rubber bands or string can be harmful if swallowed so don't leave these lying around. A nice and healthy food plan which is high in protein with plenty of water. Brush your cat every day to prevent hairballs. Your cat will thank you for this one.



You can be great friends with your cat and they will be a wonderful companion to you. By looking out for some these cat health symptoms, time spent with your cat will be enjoyable.

Cat Illness Symptoms - What Do They Mean?

As with humans, cats occasionally have days when they feel a bit off colour or lethargic but if they show more than one symptom, then there may be something serious amiss. Cats' noses are typically damp to the touch so if your cat's nose is dry and he is displaying other symptoms, he may be ill.



Cat illness symptoms can include: high temperature, sickness, diarrhoea, lethargy, excessive drinking, sneezing, coughing, runny eyes, loss of appetite and weight loss.



1. Cat flu or Feline viral rhinotracheitis is a viral infection of the respiratory tract which is extremely contagious amongst felines. The symptoms are similar to those of human flu including sneezing, coughing, high temperature, no desire to eat and runny eyes. Although antibiotics may help, there is really no treatment for this except general nursing. The cat may end up with a damaged or useless eye. Every responsible cat owner should have their cat vaccinated against cat flu.



2. Feline leukemia is likely to be fatal. It is the equivalent of human leukaemia and is cancer of the blood. Symptoms include high temperature, sickness, anaemia and respiratory difficulties. Again, be a responsible owner and have your cat vaccinated,



3. Feline infectious enteritis is a virus which can spread amongst cats very easily. The symptoms are diarrhoea and vomiting sometimes accompanied by apparent depression. There is a readily available vaccination - please use it!



Catteries in Europe will not accept a cat which hasn't had immunisation against Cat flu and enteritis. Check with your boarding kennel if there are any other vaccinations or treatment required.



4. Excessive drinking may indicate one of a couple of serious diseases including diabetes, which can be treated or kidney failure which can't. It could also indicate a urinary tract infection when coupled with high temperature, blood in the urine or general listlessness.



5. Weight loss and excessive eating without other symptoms may indicate that your cat has worms. If you can get a look at his stool, you may be able to tell, but administration of a worming tablet should fix the problem. If the symptoms persist, it may be something more serious.



6. A cut or swelling probably indicates that your cat has been in a fight but combined with lethargy may indicate an infection which needs to be treated with antibiotics or at worst surgery.



There are other cat illness symptoms as well as other diseases which your cat may contract, such as aids, if it is an outdoor cat. In any event, if your cat seems to be out of sorts or behaving differently to normal for more than a couple of days, please see your vet. If you can't afford to see a vet, there are charitable organisations in Europe which will help you out. If you can't identify a charity to help you, please talk to your vet anyway and explain your situation as most vets, by their very nature, are animal lovers and won't want to see your pet suffer.



You may well be able to save yourself expensive vet bills by taking out pet insurance as soon as you get your cat. This may seem like an expensive option but if your cat needs lengthy drug treatment or an operation, you'll be glad you did.

Some Common Cat Illnesses and Symptoms

Your cat may already be suffering from an illness and you haven't noticed. There are some cat illnesses and symptoms that seem to be normal behavior just like lethargy and frequent trips to the litter box. What you have to know are the other signs that your kitty needs to be checked by a veterinarian. Prevention may not always work so it is best to be acquainted with some of the common cat illnesses and symptoms to at least have your cat treated immediately once the symptoms start to manifest.



• Urinary tract infection in cats has similar symptoms in that of humans. Cats that frequently go to the litter box to urinate and show unusual signs of pain while urinating may indicate this. Observe your cat when it starts to go to the litter box a little too often than usual. Urinary tract infection causes a lot of pain in cats and they would usually howl in pain while urinating. There will come a point that the cat will start urinating in other places aside from the litter box to relieve the pain. This can be deadly once the urinary tract has been totally blocked.



• Diabetes in felines is also a common illness. Just like urinary tract infection, it can present similar symptoms as the human counterpart of the disease. Older and overweight tomcats are most likely to be affected with this disease. Cat illnesses and symptoms may not be evident just like for feline diabetes. Cats usually exhibit lethargy, excessive thirst and urination, and weight loss even with increase in appetite. The symptoms may develop into digestive problems and hair loss as the disease progresses.



• Feline panleukopenia, also known as feline distemper, is an illness caused by a virus transmitted through contaminated litter box, food and water. Symptoms for this are easy to spot since aside from being lethargic, the cat will also start having extreme diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite. In some cases, the fur becomes dulls and may start to fall off. Distemper is a fast progressing illness and may be hard to fight. Good thing is that there is a vaccine available against the virus.



• Another virus-brought disease is the feline infectious peritonitis. The symptoms are hard to detect and are most commonly detected places with more than one cat. Abdominal swelling is one symptom and may be followed by recurring fevers, seizures, eye hemorrhage, and loss of balance. Though it may be treated, all cats struck by the disease-causing virus eventually die.



Cat illnesses and symptoms often present themselves in the most unexpected times. As an owner, it is your responsibility to be vigilant and be always ready in case your cat starts to manifest unusual behavior. Keep your cat in a clean environment and make sure the food and water are also free from contaminants. Make occasional visits to the vet since there are cat illnesses and symptoms that only they can do something about.

Diabetes in Cats - Practical Treatment and Care For Feline Diabetes

Diabetes is a loss of control of the amount of sugar in the blood. A cat with diabetes has a very high concentration of sugar in the blood and urine. There are 2 different types of diabetes. The first is insulin-dependent diabetes, where the pancreas does not produce enough of the hormone insulin to regulate the blood-sugar levels. The other form of diabetes occurs when the body does not respond properly to the insulin that the pancreas is producing.



Cats with diabetes may appear to be losing weight, while at the same time eating actively. They will also drink and urinate more often, and in large volumes. Your cat's urine may appear sticky due to the large sugar content. Do not take these symptoms lightly, as cats can, in more advanced cases, become acutely ill, or even comatose. Any noticeably depressed cat should be considered potentially ill, and you should seek veterinary care immediately.



If your veterinarian diagnoses cat diabetes, he will suggest changes in his diet that may include controlled weight loss and high-fiber diets. Sometimes, medications can help to control the blood sugar level. In most cases, however, you will need to give insulin shots to your cat. Your veterinarian will show you how to give injections, and discuss how you will, along with him, monitor your cat's progress and further medication needs. You should keep a diary of all changes to your cat's medication needs, and how he responds to those changes. This diary will help you and your veterinarian control your cat's diabetes.



Some cases of diabetes in cats can be cured by finding and treating other diseases that are making your cat's symptoms more resistant to insulin. Some cats are able to spontaneously recover permanently, or even temporarily, from diabetes. Healthy or ill, you should always be aware of changes in your cat's behavior.

Symptoms That Your Cat Might Have Cushings Disease

An Introduction to Cushing's Disease



Cushing's disease is also known as hyperadrenocorticism or hypercortisolemi. It is caused by your cat's body tissues being exposed for prolonged periods to excessive levels of a hormone known as Cortisol. Cortisol is a steroid produced by the adrenal glands, and is mainly produced when the body is under stress. The levels of Cortisol produced are usually carefully regulated by other hormones produced by the pituitary gland, but if your cat develops Cushing's disease then too much Cortisol is produced.



Cushing's is most often caused by a tumor in either the pituitary gland or the adrenal gland. Although these tumors are usually benign, the glands are stimulated to produce more Cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormones (ACTH) which then causes the symptoms of the disease. Corticosteroid drugs used long term for conditions such as arthritis can also cause the disease.
Cushing's is a disease which generally affects older cats, although younger cats have also been diagnosed with the disease.



Symptoms of Cushing's Disease
Symptoms can vary a great deal and are very slight in the early stages. Cushing's progresses slowly so some of the early warning signs may be missed. Your cat may show signs of increased thirst and urination, which are also the signs of diabetes. Diabetes is often a complication of Cushing's disease as one of the functions of Cortisol is to regulate insulin production; when this becomes impaired then diabetes is often the result. The diabetes caused by the disease is generally resistant to insulin so a high dose of insulin is often required to regulate blood sugar levels.



Another sign of Cushing's disease is an increased appetite. Your cat may also become lethargic, weak and listless. The excessive amount of steroids produced by the body can cause a breakdown of muscle tissue, and the abdomen may become enlarged, leading to a pot-bellied appearance. Your cat's coat may also be affected, becoming thin and patchy with slow re-growth when fur is lost. The skin may also become thin, leading to skin conditions or tears. As the steroid hormones suppress the healing process and impair the immune system, wounds and infections may be slow to heal. Some cats develop small, hard calcified lumps under their skin, and may suffer from frequent urinary tract infections.



Because the symptoms develop slowly and can indicate other diseases, it can be very difficult to diagnose. If you suspect that there is a possibility that your cat may have Cushing's disease then you should take him to the vet for diagnosis. If your cat develops diabetes then your vet should also check for signs of Cushing's.

Sick Cat Symptoms - Know What to Look For

Always keep a lookout for sick cat symptoms in your pet cat, because it's not wise to ignore these symptoms. You know your cat best. And often if you notice any aberrations in its behavior then it might be a symptom of some disease. Diseases like diabetes affect cats too. And you know your cat is stricken with this disease if it drinks abnormally large quantities of water and empties its bladder all over the place.



Usually animals and men cough, if they have some obstruction in their throats which they want to get rid of. So, whereas, a sudden fit of coughing in your cat is okay, you shouldn't ignore it if it persists for more than a week. Take it to a doctor, for it is a sick cat symptom. It could be an obstruction in his windpipe or something more serious, like pneumonia or bronchitis.



Sick cat symptoms need to be verified and thus your cat needs a check up with its vet. Coughing is not a very innocuous thing, it could indicate apart from bronchial diseases, lung tumor, or even cardiac arrest. Under no circumstances should it be taken lightly.



FIV or feline immunodeficiency virus infection is a cause for serious concern in cats. In common parlance it's called retrovirus. It is a type of virus that the cats' immune defense systems can't detect immediately. Only when they grow in numbers to a large body, they launch an attack on the antibodies of your cat. So it ruins the cat's immune system, and weakens it, so it can't fight against other diseases. This ultimately may cause death, since the cat is unable to fight against diseases.



Sick cat symptoms are very marked in cats that experience this tension between the immune system and the retrovirus. Loss of weight and energy, fever, loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes are common signs of this disease. This type of disease also heightens the chances of your cat being stricken with leukemia. If your cat evinces any such symptoms, don't waste any more time, take it to the vet and get it tested for FIV.



Cats need as much attention as children, and like we don't ignore the illnesses of our children, we should also pay adequate attention to the health and well being of our cats. Since they cant tell us if they feel ill, we have to keep a look out for sick cat symptoms, so that we are able to provide medical assistance where needed and assure them a healthy and happy life.

7 Symptoms of Cat Urinary Tract Infection and What You Can Do About It

Ever wondered how to spot early cat urinary tract infection symptoms? Cat urinary problems are known as silent killers because cats have a high tolerance for pain and often don't even show that they have a problem until it's too late. It pays off to be able to detect the symptoms of infection so you can spot the condition early and treat it at home before it spirals out of control. Here are 7 symptoms to look out for.



1. Is your cat urinating more or less frequently than usual? A change in urination patterns is often one of the earliest symptoms. It helps to know how your cat normally behaves in order to spot a change in urination patterns.



2. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include straining to urinate. If your cat tries to urinate often and only drops of urine come out at a time, it is likely that he is suffering from a UTI.



3. Other cat urinary symptoms include foul-smelling urine. If the urine looks cloudy and smells bad, you can suspect that UTI is the cause.



4. Is your cat urinating outside of his or her litter box? If you notice it urinating in strange places such as the kitchen sink, UTI may be the cause. Because UTIs are painful, your cat probably associates the litter box with the pain and tries to avoid it at all costs.



5. Is your cat grooming his or her genitals often? Frequent grooming of the genitals could mean that it is suffering from swollen, painful genitals from a urinary infection. Bacterial infections will cause its genitals to get inflamed. You should be especially suspicious if your cat is crying while grooming as if he or she were in pain.



6. Surefire cat urinary tract infection symptoms include urine in the blood. Get it to urinate on a light-colored surface if you suspect UTI. If you see traces of blood, take it to the vet as soon as possible.



7. Cat urinary symptoms that you should be concerned about include fever and a swollen, tender abdomen. Furthermore, if your cat is acting lethargic, it's a sign that it may be in the late stages of UTI. Get your cat treated as soon as you can.



So there you have it. These are common cat urinary tract infection symptoms that you should look out for. If you notice any of them, make sure to give your cat a homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies are very helpful in healing infections and preventing recurrence. They will help your cat maintain a healthy bladder, urinary tract, and strong immune system. Remember to keep these symptoms in mind and if you spot even one of them, give your cat a homeopathic remedy. Better yet, give your cat a homeopathic remedy to prevent them occurring altogether.

What is Cushing's Disease in Cats?

It is a disease named after a neurosurgeon who first described this disease in humans about 100 years ago. Cushing's disease is a disorder of the adrenal glands, a pair of bean shaped structures sitting just above the kidneys.



These glands like other glands in the feline endocrine system manufacture and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream that facilitate and regulate a bunch of bodily processes.



Of the many hormones that are secreted, one of the most important ones is a hormone called "cortisol" - a hormone that is involved with the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also helps maintain normal blood sugar levels, muscle development and many of the other things related to tissue growth and repair.



And if that is not enough cortisol also is essential in an animal's "fight-or-flight" response. In stressful situations, the adrenal glands bring additional cortisol into the bloodstream, which in turn releases stored energy, that is in the body to help a cat cope with the situation it is in. It can also help fight infection in the case of sickness or surgery.



Since this hormone is of such importance to a cat's system, it needs to be controlled in a proper manner as is flows through the cat's system. An excess of this hormone can be very dangerous for a cat. An excess can cause the cat's body not to metabolize nutrients properly, diminish cardiovascular efficiency, reduces muscle strength, interferes with normal blood-clotting functions and hurts the body's ability to ward off infection.



What are the symptoms of Cushing's disease? A cat with Cushing's disease may show an increase in thirst, increased appetite, excessive urination, a potbelly and its skin may bruise or rupture during routine handling.



You may realize from reading the above that some of the symptoms sound like diabetes and that is true, due to the excess cortisol on the blood-sugar metabolism, up to 90 percent of cats with this disease become diabetic.



Cat's with advanced cases of Cushing's disease may also develop hair loss that tends to show up on both sides of the body or on the inside of the thighs. The areas will not itch (unless there is a skin infection, too) it is just a response to too much cortisol in the body.



This disease usually occurs when cats are middle-aged or older and is usually found more in females than males.



According to the reports that I have read, there are two types of cancers that can cause this disease, one is a small, benign, slow growing tumor in the pituitary gland. It is very small and does not cause any type of neurologic problems for the cat, the only thing it does is create an over abundance of adrenocorticotropic hormone, (ACHT) which in turn tells the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol. As a result the adrenal gland will get bigger because of all the exercise (just like a muscle will.)



This condition is called pituitary-Cushing's disease and is believed to be the cause of 80 percent of the cases of this disease.



The other 20 percent of cases are caused by cancerous growths on one or both of the adrenal glands, which causes the gland to become enlarged and thus produces excess cortisol. This type of cancer has a 50-50 chance of being benign or malignant. If it is malignant chances, are it will spread to the lymph nodes or the liver and other vital organs.



What are the treatment options? First of all the disease has to be diagnosed. This is done by having a complete blood count, a blood chemistry panel, urinalysis and a few other tests done.



If Cushing's disease is diagnosed, treatment may involve drugs that will selectively destroy part of the adrenal gland that is producing too much cortisol. Drugs seem to work much better on dogs with this condition than on cats. Unfortunately surgery is usually the answer for cats.



Since the pituitary tumors are too difficult to remove, the alternative is to remove one or both of the adrenal glands. This surgery requires extensive postoperative care. The surgery will only work if the cancer has not spread to any other parts of the body.



The prognosis for survival is quite good, although cats having this surgery will have to be on medication for the rest of their lives and must have tests several times a year to evaluate their condition. Diabetic cats must have their blood chemistry, water consumption and urine output monitored frequently.

4 Causes and Symptoms of Frequent Cat Urination

Frequent cat urination is one of the more common cat health problems today. Since there are a few medical conditions or behavioral problems in your pet that might be causing this condition, you will have to spend some time to observe your kitty carefully to discover the root cause behind their urinary problems.



This article examines some common causes and related symptoms of frequent cat urination.



Bladder Infection and Cat Urinary Tract Infection



Both cat urinary tract infection and bladder infection have interchangeable causes and symptoms. Stress, dietary imbalance, or bacterial infection can cause bladder infection while urinary tract infection usually indicates some greater problem such as urolithiasis, which is somewhat close to humans suffering from kidney stones. Frequent urination, blood in the urine, pain while urinating and urination outside the litter box are common symptoms of urinary tract infection, one of the more serious cat health problems today. Cats suffering from bladder infection may vomit or clean their genitals frequently in addition to the symptoms of urinary tract infection.



Feline Kidney Disease



Cat renal failure is yet another of the more common cat health problems today. When the kidneys of the cat fail to function properly, toxins can no longer be thrown out of the kidneys. So, these toxins finally get mixed with the bloodstream. Frequent urination, bad breath, mild depression, seizures, vomiting, or decreased mobility are some common symptoms of this ailment.



Incontinence



The bladder of cats may weaken due to age related problems or trauma, resulting in frequent urination. Since your pet is unable to hold its urine, it urinates as soon as there is pressure in her bladder. A frequently wet bottom along with the tendency to urinate whenever your cat changes position from sitting or lying are some clear symptoms of this problem.



Cat Diabetes



Cat diabetes might also be a factor if your kitty wets herself easily. Hereditary, weight or age-related problems may sometimes give rise this condition. Apart from the urge to urinate frequently, weight loss, increased water intake, vomiting, decreased activity, and dull coat and skin are symptoms of this disease.



If you have a cat at home, you will have to be alert and remember the symptoms and causes of this condition. It might also be a good idea to bring your cat to the vet for regular checkups so that these cat health problems can be discovered and treated as early as possible.

Diabetes in Cats

It's scary when you first know your cat has diabetis but once you start understanding the disease and get more used to the monitoring it becomes easier for you and your kitty.



Informing yourself of the disease is crucial, its not the same as human diabetis and its a complex disease that you need to inform yourself about.Don't feel overwhelmed by the amount of information. Get all the info printed and make it a point to read them every night until you basically have learned the info by heart.



First of all, Feline diabetes is extremely difficult to regulate. Feline metabolism is simply not designed to be diabetes friendly. By "regulate," we mean finding the correct insulin dosage for steady, healthy blood sugar levels.Feline metabolism is built specifically for short, fast bursts of power and speed, not long chases, unlike dogs. It can take a very long time to find the right dose of insulin, and the "right" dose can change on you with little or no notice. Stress, even things that don't appear to us to be stressful, can set off sugar spikes in cats.



Thus, you MUST monitor your cat at all times. At any sign of trouble,at least call your vet. You'll get better over time at recognizing what needs immediate attention.



Signs of trouble (over-insulin) include:



Balance loss, unsteady walking (they'll act drunk ...)



Head shaking



Sudden craziness - this is different from the regular feline nightly run around and be active craziness. Sometimes, the cat might let out a horrible witchy yowl at top voice, spin madly around chasing its own tail 4-5 times, jump in the air, fall on the sides, pant and ultimately even lose consciousness.



So, in such instances have a light corn syrup handy. If you over-insulin (which is all too easily done) you will need to get come easy sugar into your cat FAST.



The insulin is given subcutaneaously, that is, directly under the top layer of skin, and NOT into the blood. What you'll do is lift your cat's skin somewhere around the scruff or near that area, just as you would do to check hydration (something you'll want to do daily, by the way ...) You'll then have a little tent of skin lifted off from the body. You'll insert the the needle along the long line of the tent (think of a long pole supporting the tent like a roof line) rather than from side to side of the tent. Inject and you're done. You'll get to where you can do it easily.



Never give another shot if you think you missed the shot (sometimes you can make a mistake and give the shot to the fur.. which isn't helpful at all!) but its always best for your kitty to skip a dose than have a double shot.



Eating is crucial - and it is equally crucial that your cat eats something immediately before or after the insulin shot (just like human diabetics). This can be difficult, as cats often don't eat when they don't feel well, so start finding all the creative treats you can find that will entice your cat.You can probably try home-made (no salt or spices) chicken broth, which gels when cold; baby food (all meat, NO spices, particularly onion powder, which is poisonous to cats); wet food (from the vet, particularly made for kidney problems); TUNA (the special favorite.) Experiment, but don't go overboard, and remember that however 'underboard' is more dangerous.



As the diabetes progresses, be on the watch for other complications; Joint problems , need for heat, blindness. You'll need to make environmental changes to accommodate such things as they develop. Some cats can come down with renal failure as a secondary condition to the diabetes. These are all treatable, but it will add to the adjustments you and your cat will need to make.



Find out where your nearest emergency animal hospital/clinic is NOW before you need that information. Because you will need it.Unless you are extremely blessed, there will be at least once or twice that you will need to rush your cat for immediate care, because he goes into diabetic coma (the warnings I mentioned above.) Keep the number someplace where you can find it at a moment's notice.



Towels are your friend. They can be used to wrap a cat who struggles when given shots; they can be used to put under a cat who is retching to catch the vomit (towels, unlike rugs and floors, are easily thrown into a washing machine!);they can make emergency beds as the cat's ability to navigate the environment changes. They can be used with plastic to catch extraneous urine around the litterbox (again - washable!).



Periodically ,talk to your vet about cat's diet. He may already be on lower-protein food. If not, it may be time to introduce it. Kidney problems necessitate lower protein foods than normal



This can be a harsh statement, but to be realistic, Diabetes in cats is fatal -- you may have weeks or years, depending on how well your cat's blood levels regulate. Now is the time for the two of you to come to an agreement about what constitutes a quality-of-life threshold. Only you and your cat can decide when that is for the two of you. But it is a conversation you should start, now,while you can still enjoy yourselves together as you have it.

Feline Diabetes Helped With the Catkin's Diet

Feline diabetes is on the rise not just in North America, but throughout the entire world. Cat diabetes in many cases can actually be prevented, or put in remission. In fact, if you just do one small thing for your cat, a lot of your cat's health problems can be resolved. Of course that one thing is placing your feline on the Catkins Diet, a high protein, low carbohydrate diet and get rid of anything that has to do with dry cat food. Dry cat food is bad for your cat and actually causes many health problems.



The diet that is full of high protein and has low carbohydrates is ideal for your cat. This diet is commonly called the Catkin's Diet, which is a takeoff of the low carbohydrate human diet named the Atkin's Diet. But the good thing about this Catkin's Diet is that it helps the pet owner remember what to feed their feline. The more the cat owner feeds a high diet of protein opposed to high carbohydrates, the healthier their car will be and become.



Why is the Catkin's Diet a clear choice for the cat owner, especially owners that have diabetic cats? When a sick cat is placed on this diet, the cat will begin to feel better because he is essentially on what normal cats eat in the wild. Cats tend to eat once a day and eat small creatures like mice or birds. They do not eat manufactured, highly processed, low moist count foods, like dry cat food.



When a cat eats foods that are in cans, they tend to get more water intake because of all of the gravy. It is known that dry cat food has a ten percent less moisture intake then canned cat food and having enough water is essential for felines, even though normal healthy felines don't drink much water. But if a cat has diabetes or other health related diseases, their bodies require extra water intake because they have to flush out the extra glucose that is in their system. They will require more water to do that.



The Catkins Diet should be fed not just too diabetic cats but also to normal, everyday healthy cats. Once a cat is placed on a high protein diet his body will react, and if you're feline is obese, then he will start losing weight right away. You obese cat will want to continue to eat dry cat food, but after a while they will get used to the routine of eating wet, canned cat food. Sometimes pet owners run into the problem that their cat is picky on the wet food. If that is the case, do some experimentation on different canned cat foods, and sure enough, after a while your cat will eat the canned cat food, that is what the Catkin's Diet is all about, getting your feline family member to eat better. There is, of course, better canned cat food then others. Some canned cat food has actually the same amount of carbohydrates then dry food. If the pet owner just sticks with the normal canned cat food that has gravy and chicken or beef, then your cat will thank you for it.



When switching to the all canned, Catkin's diet make sure to do it slowly, that way if your feline does actually have higher amounts of glucose in their blood stream, they will need to be taken down slowly. If you slowly dish out canned cat food with a few handfuls of dry food, and your cat is not leisurely picking at the dry food all day, then he will have a better regulation of his blood glucose levels and your cat will be brought back down to normal levels. However, if you do it to quickly then your cat could have an hypoglycemic attack, where is blood glucose levels are radically low and he become lethargic then that could be a disaster. If you ever see your cat not behaving like his normal kitty self, make sure to consult a veterinarian right away. If your cat has any symptoms of feline diabetes or hypoglycemias then take him to the emergency animal hospital right away.



With the Catkins Diet, a high protein and low carbohydrate diet, your cat will surely be much healthier!

Diabetic Cats - An Epidemic?

Cat diabetes can be a serious condition and potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Some of the symptoms can cripple the cat and if left undiagnosed will eventually kill the animal. Diabetic cats seem to be increasing in number and this may be because there are more indoor-only pets where formerly most cats had the opportunity to roam outdoors. Part of the problem with indoor-only cats is that they lose many chances for exercise and never engage in hunting or other skills that would bring them prey for food. Indoor cats may also have a diet based entirely on dry cat food and this may be causing their diabetes.



Dry cat food is largely based on cereal or grain based sources and thus is high in carbohydrates. They are probably simpler carbohydrates that easily digest and are converted into glucose and absorbed into the cat's bloodstream. This diet can over time cause a chronic high blood sugar condition and some breeds are more prone to this condition than others. Cats which are older, neutered, male or obese are more at risk at contracting diabetes. Obesity and the high carbohydrate diet seem to hand in hand as the increased blood sugar is stored as fat on the animal.



A feral cat would almost never eat any carbohydrate based food as part of their diet as most of their food consists of meat that they catch and eat. Feral cats are also rarely obese and the diet they eat and exercise they get is the main reason for their condition. An indoor diabetic cat can regain its health by changing to a diet based nearly completely on meat based protein sources such as canned cat food. If you read the labels even the cheaper canned or foil pouches have significant meat-based protein as an ingredient and can help your pet regain good health.



Protein does not get broken down into glucose and thus doesn't contribute to a high blood sugar level. It helps keep blood sugar in normal ranges and reduces the need for insulin in the cat's body, whether it is through injection or through the cat's own pancreas secreting it. Glucose monitoring or urine testing will be necessary to see if dietary changes alone have changed the high blood sugar condition. Most cats require injections of U 40 insulin to get their blood sugar back in normal ranges, but by following a high protein, low carbohydrate diet, may require less and less insulin to maintain a normal blood sugar level. Some cats, if kept on a strict diet can get by with no insulin injections. Age of the cat and how early they were diagnosed is usually the determining factor on how completely the diabetes can be reversed.



Insulin injections are also part of the treatment and U40 insulin syringes matched to the U40 insulin make correct dosing and injections easier to accomplish. U40 insulin is weaker in strength and allows for finer regulation of blood sugar by more precise dose amounts.



Proper diet for cats is more important than many people realize and the correct food intake is an easier solution for good health than insulin injections and other veterinary treatments.

Cat Diabetes - When Too Much Sweetness Can Kill

Cat Diabetes occurs when the hormone insulin in cats fails to balance the levels of glucose or blood sugar in the body.



Glucose is the byproduct of foods which flows into the blood stream right after digestion. In normal body setup, insulin is secreted which converts glucose into energy to be used for body activities. In Type 1 diabetes, there is not enough insulin in the body to perform this important glucose conversion. The total failure of the cells to respond at all in the presence of insulin falls in the Type 2 category of diabetes.



A basic sign for cat diabetes would be frequent urination or polyuria. Excessive levels of blood sugar will be passed into the urine, with the kidney reacting by flushing them out through urination. In parallel with polyuria is polydipsia, the cat will feel excessive thirst. Having diabetes under control will similarly regulate this two conditions. Other major symptoms of feline diabetes are weakness of the rear legs, weight loss inspite increased appetite and lethargy.



Older, obese cats and those of the male gender are the group most affected by cat diabetes. Although there is no specific cause to be pinpointed, possible contributing factors can be hormonal imbalance, pancreatic disease, obesity and genetics.



Diabetes in cats can be determined though urine and blood evaluation. A good news for this kind of disorder is that it is treatable. With dedication and good collaboration with an expert veterinarian, your cat will certainly be a warm companion for a long period of time.

Feline Diabetes - Is Your Pet at Risk For Diabetes in Cats?

If you're like most people who are owned by a cat, you don't even think about feline diabetes. But ignorance is not bliss, as the rate of diabetes in cats is exploding. Don't let your pet be blindsided by this disease. Learn how you can prevent a diabetic cat from becoming a reality in your future.



A Fat Cat Is The Biggest Risk Factor For Feline Diabetes



Our kitties depend on us to feed them properly to keep them healthy. Unfortunately, most people think all they have to do is leave dry food out in a bowl for their feline friend to snack on whenever they want. Although this is what the pet food companies tell us to do, feeding your kitty like this is sure to lead to a weight problem, and other health issues, including diabetes in cats and kidney problems.



What's wrong with dry food? There are three problems associated with a dry food diet for kitties:



1. The type of protein is wrong - there are too many plant-based proteins, as opposed to animal-based proteins.
2. The carbohydrate level is too high, leading to weight gain.
3. The water content is too low, which can cause kidney failure later in life. The leading cause of death in older felines is kidney failure.



You need to understand that felines are obligate carnivores. They are meant to get their nutrition from animal protein in the form of meat. They aren't meant to digest a large number of carbohydrates. Feeding your kitty a diet high in carbohydrates will only lead to feline obesity, which, in turn, opens the doors to a wide array of other health problems.



Your pet is meant to get most of his water from his diet. Cats don't normally drink a lot of water, so feeding him a dry diet can lead to kidney problems later in life.



Feeding him a high-quality canned food is the best way to prevent both diabetes in cats and feline kidney failure.



Keep Your Kitty Active



We aren't the only ones who aren't getting enough exercise. Our pets are couch potatoes, too. Your kitty needs exercise every day to keep him healthy, and to burn up extra calories. Exercise is also great for keeping blood sugar levels normal.



Try to schedule two or three exercise session every day with your kitty. You want him jumping around and getting out of breath. A cat toy that looks like a fishing rod is a great way to get him up and moving around. He just can't resist chasing it. You'll enjoy watching him act like a kitten again.



Prevent A Diabetic Cat With Natural Remedies For Cats



Good diet and lots of exercise are wonderful ways to keep your beloved kitty healthy. But wouldn't it be great if there was also a dietary supplement you could give him every day that would prevent feline diabetes? You'll be pleased to know that there is.



This remedy has been carefully formulated for companion animals. The ingredients have been well-researched, and they're safe and effective. The best part is that it's very easy to give to your pet. Just break open the capsule, and mix it with your feline friend's food. You won't have to struggle with trying to get a pill down an uncooperative kitty.



Now that you have this information, what are you waiting for? Start today to prevent your beloved kitty from ever becoming a feline diabetic.

Treatment And Symptoms Of Cat Diabetes Mellitus

Cat diabetes mellitus affects cats the same way it does with people. A lack of insulin due to insufficient hormone secretion causes this condition in cats. This type of diabetes is call type one. The other type of cat diabetes mellitus is type two, which is caused by insufficient hormone insulin response by the cat's body cells. This health problem is not as common in cats as in humans.



Some Symptoms your Cat has Diabetes



Diabetes in cats is caused by the body's inability to use glucose the way the body needs to. The result is the accumulation of glucose in the blood causing hyperglycemia. Onset of this condition needs monitoring very closely.



Excessive urination also called polyuria is an early symptom of feline type 1 diabetes. Excessive thirst may also accompany the condition, which is called polydipsia. Diabetes in cat's often causes weight lost even if they continue to eat healthy and regularly due to the improper utilization of glucose because of a lack of hormone insulin.



As the cat diabetes mellitus progresses, the cat will experience vomiting, weakness, lack of appetite and dehydration. Feline diabetes affects older cats more than it does younger cats and generally, male cats become prone to cat diabetes more so than females. No one set cause of feline diabetes has been diagnosed, but it is believed that the pancreatic disease and improper hormone levels, overweight and genetic predisposition may cause the onset of cat diabetes.



How to Treat Cat Diabetes Mellitus



Although no cure for feline diabetes exists, the treatment depends on how bad the diabetes is and how fast you determine your cat has a health concern. If your cat requires ketoacidosis care, which is countering the dehydration with the administering of fluids and insulin. Some times cats with diabetes need to receive up to two shots a day preferably by way of the subcutaneous way.



As an alternative to insulin injections, the oral hypoglycemic drug may work on the cat with feline diabetes. Many drug manufactures have different types of oral hypoglycemic available for use under a veterinarians advice. The proper diet for feline diabetes requires cutting the sugar intake in the food. As you see, caring for a cat with diabetes requires some of the same conditions as a person would have to follow.



Living with a cat that has diabetes may require some strict dedication to ensure the health of the cat. Veterinarians offer many suggestions has to how to treat the cat diabetes mellitus and do explain how to care for your cat in case injections need to be administered. Cat diabetes needs special attention to food, water and medication, along with urination and bowel movements to keep the cat healthy. With all the proper care, a cat will live a long and healthy life. The onset of cat diabetes mellitus will have some affects on the older cat, but if caught early, the cat remains healthy throughout the treatment.

Cats - Symptoms That Your Cat is Sick

Making sure your cat is healthy and knowing the signs when they become sick is very important. There best way to do this is to pay close attention to your cats behavior and you when know when they are acting differently. It may be that they are not eating like they used to or maybe they are having issues going to the bathroom. But usually there will be signs that you can watch for that will let you know they are ill. Knowing your cats is the most important thing because if you have a cat that is active and one day they seem to not want to do anything you need to watch them and see if there seems to be something wrong.



If your cat is having problems with vomiting and weight loss these could be early signs that you cat may have diabetes and this needs to be checked by your vet . It would be easier if your cat could just tell you when they are feeling bad but you have to be on the lookout for something wrong so you can treat them when something arises. Also if a cat is having problems going in the litter box this can be a urinary tract infection that can be treated with medicine.



You also want to check there fur and make sure you do not see any fur lose because this can be a sign that something is wrong. Also you want to check there nose and eyes to see if there is any draining that seems unusual.



Remember that you need to be aware of your cats behavior and check them for any signs if illness so that you can make sure your cat lives a long and healthy life.

Cat Bladder Infection - Guide to Symptoms and Treatment Options

Cat bladder infection can form in any part of your cat's urinary tract (UTI). Infection can be caused by bacteria (28%, viruses (.4%) or fungus. Approximately 1% of cats that visit a veterinarian have a urinary tract infection with the most common type of bacteria being E. coli. Other names for the condition depend on the location of the disease including LUTD or lower Urinary Tract Disease or in the upper urinary tract. Once one part becomes infected, usually it spreads to another part. Because of this it is sometimes difficult to diagnose the exact location of the infection.



Cats tend to contract the infection through the urethra, which is the part of the cat that allows urine to leave the body. For example if this opening comes in contact with a dirty litter box, then bacteria can enter the body and spread up the tract, eventually leading to the bladder causing feline bladder infection. Normal urination can usually keep the urinary tract clean since it is an excellent antimicrobial (bacteria killer), however, if your cat is having bladder problems or is urinating less than usual, then the immune system becomes overwhelmed with the bacteria.



Feline cats that are older than 10 years are at a higher risk to get an infection. It is rare to see the problem in younger cats. Female cats that have been spayed have the highest incidence. Cats that have feline diabetes mellitus are also at risk.



Symptoms of Cat Bladder Infection and UTI



Symptoms of cat urinary infection include blood in the urine (haematuria), excessive frequent urination (pollakiuria), slow and painful urination (stranguria) and urination in inappropriate places such as outside of the litter box (periuria).



Diagnosis of Cat Bladder Infection



The urine will be tested for the presence of an unusual number of white blood cells, the cells which help the body fight infection.



Treatment of Cat Bladder Infection



Antibiotics are used to kill any bacteria associated with the feline bladder infection. The type of antibiotic selected will be based on the specific bacteria causing the infection. Treatment is of a short duration. Some cats may have bacteria which are resistant to antibiotics. In this case different antibiotics and longer term treatment may be required.



The body naturally kills bacteria as urine passes through the urinary tract. Some owners like to supplement the prescription medications with natural remedies which are associated with restoring balance to the entire urinary system and possible a change in diet. Ingredients such as Arctostaphylos uva ursi help maintain the proper PH in the urinary tract so your cat's body can naturally fight infection. Check with your veterinarian on how to combine prescription and natural choices. If your cat eat dry cat food, consider a switch to canned which will provide your cat with more moisture and in turn cleanse the urinary tract due to more frequent urination.



Your cat will be retested several weeks after treatment to ensure that the feline bladder infection is gone.



Prognosis of Cats with Feline Bladder Infection



Treatment in effective in 85% of cats with no additional recurrence. If it is a continuing problem for your cat consider options such as diet and using natural supplements to ensure that your cat's body has the nutrients needed for long term urinary health and the proper PH balance.

Your Diabetic Cat - Three Tips For Managing Feline Diabetes

Let's face it, if you have a diabetic cat, life will be more complicated for you. Feline diabetes is a complex disease, and you can't understand it all at once. Try to focus on these three areas, and life for you and your kitty will be easier.



Diet Is Important For Managing Diabetes In Cats



Do you know the best diet for a feline diabetic? Surprisingly enough, the dry prescription food your vet sells may not be the answer. Dry pet foods are primarily made from grain, which is high in carbohydrates.



So what's the problem with grains? Kitties are obligate carnivores, which means they need to get their protein from meat, not grains. Feeding your kitty a grain-based diet will more than likely lead to obesity. An obese cat has a much higher risk of developing feline diabetes.



It's suggested to switch your pet over to a high-quality canned food. You'll need to move slowly when doing this with a diabetic kitty, as it's very important that they eat on a regular basis. If your pet walks away from his food, it can lead to serious problems in regulating glucose levels in his blood.



You'll also be feeding your pet three or four times a day. This prevents large amounts of glucose being released into his blood stream at once, which leads to spikes in blood glucose levels. It also prevents the glucose levels from dropping to dangerous levels several hours later.



Home Testing Is Essential For Managing A Diabetic Cat



If you're not testing your kitty's glucose levels at home, you're flying blind in regards to managing his diabetes. You have no idea when to feed him, when to give him insulin, or how much to give him.



This is not difficult to learn. Your vet can show you how to do it. Once you've done it a few times, you and your kitty will be relaxed about it, and home testing will become routine.



Natural Remedies For Cats May Be Helpful In Managing Your Feline Diabetic



Many human diabetics have had great success in using natural remedies to manage their disease. It's only natural that people owned by kitties would wonder if these natural remedies are effective for managing diabetes in cats as well. The answer is yes.



You'll want to look for a remedy that contains fenugreek, astragalus, and goat's rue, as well as chromium. Research has shown that these remedies are very effective in regulating the amount of glucose in your kitty's blood. Fenugreek has the added benefit of promoting urinary tract health, which helps to prevent the feline bladder infections that are common among diabetic cats.



Many cat owners have been successful in reducing the amount of insulin their pet needs, or even eliminating it completely, by using natural remedies for cats. Always check with your vet before making any changes in your pet's treatment plan. Most vets are very open to natural remedies, and will be happy to work with you.



Pay close attention to diet and home testing, and learn more about herbal pet remedies, and you'll find that managing cat diabetes will become much easier.

How to Tell If Your Cat Has Diabetes

Cats suffer from diabetes. Just like humans Cats can suffer from the effects of diabetes. Unlike humans, cats cannot tell us that they are uncomfortable in anyway, to further complicate matters, Cats have high pain tolerance and will go unnoticed with an illness for many months, so it is imperative that we learn to see the subtle changes that a cat will show when they are ill.



Symptoms to look out for can be explained by other problems so it is important to seek professional help if you are concerned right away.



- A change in appetite can be an early sign of Diabetes. A loss or increase both equally.
- Weakness in the hind legs and general lethargic movement especially if not normal.
- Smelly breath. Most cats have smelly breath it is worth asking for advice though.
- Has your cat been urinating more frequently pay special attention to recording this if you can?



These are some of the symptoms that can mean your cat is suffering from Diabetes. If you feel that this is your cat, don't panic unduly! just check him with the local vets. I would also suggest trying a urine glucose test. you can do this at home and there are lots of kits and advice online that can help.



High fat diets are a sure way to your cat becoming diabetic, high protein diets will help, but please seek advice from your vet as high protein can also cause other illnesses, so be careful as a lot of canned cat food has high fat levels. Just because he's purring and happy doesn't mean its good for him.



The ASPCA help in approving healthy foods for your cat, check out the label before buying your cat food. The American Association of feed control Officers (AAFCO) on the label of the tin is a good indication that this food is good for your cat. Yes it will cost more but he's worth it.



Cat diabetes is treatable and in most cases your cat will recover to a good quality of life. There is no cure but it can be managed, well within your budget. It can be overwhelming at first, the amount of information online especially, is staggering, so I will finish by saying get professional help from a vet if you are unsure and scared of what to do.

Cat Bites

Although smaller than their canine counterparts, cats are capable of producing serious injuries through bites and scratches. Bites to the hand are particularly dangerous because of the structure of the hand. Because of the multitude of bones and joints, blood flow is restricted in the hand, making healing a more difficult process than normal. If infection in the hand develops, it can lead to serious complications such as septic arthritis.



Although dogs can exert more pressure in a bite, their teeth are generally dull. Cat's teeth are sharp and needle-like and are therefore much more likely to produce puncture wounds that introduce bacteria deep into the tissue. Cat bites may appear more trivial than dog bites but about 80% of cat bites become infected. Cats' mouths and claws generally have more bacteria than dogs' mouths, making the possibility of infection much higher.



Common cat bite infections include Pasteurellosis and Streptococcal and Staphylococcal infections. In Pasteurellosis, pain, redness, and swelling begin at the site of infection within two to twelve hours of the bite. The infection can spread very quickly and require immediate medical attention. If the bite is on the hand, the infection can cause permanent damage if proper care is not administered to the wound. Streptococcal and Staphylococcal infections mimic the symptoms of Pasteurellosis.



Another potential complication of cat bites and scratches is cat-scratch disease. The bacteria are carried in cat saliva and can be passed from cat to human. Cats also carry the bacteria on their paws, especially after cleaning themselves. Although cat-scratch disease is not generally considered a serious disease, it can be problematic for people with weak immune systems, such as those receiving chemotherapy, people with AIDS, or people with diabetes. Symptoms include a sore developing at the location of the original scratch and lymph node swelling.



Groups who are at elevated risk for infection following a cat bite or scratch include those who are over fifty years of age, organ transplant patients, and alcoholics or people with compromised liver functioning. Victims of cat attacks should immediately clean the wound with soap and warm water. The goal is to get as much of the animal's saliva out of the wound as possible, as that is the main source of infection. If bleeding occurs, apply pressure to the wound and elevate it above the heart. The bite or scratch should be monitored for infection. If it does not heal quickly or begins to show signs of swelling or redness, immediately contact your doctor.



If interested in learning more, this website about ways to deal with cat bites can help.

Diabetes Mellitus and Pancreatitis in Cats - What You Should Know About This Glandular Problem

Older cats may suffer from hormone related diseases caused by glandular changes that occur with advancing age. Again, most vets recommend routine screening for hormone levels in the blood because early intervention with diet, drugs, and other treatments improve the odds of effective control of these diseases.



Let's look at some of the more common glandular problems seen in older cats. The pancreas produces several enzymes that are essential for processing sugars and fats in the diet. Diabetes mellitus occurs when the pancreas loses its ability to metabolize and regulate blood sugar through the production of insulin.



Symptoms of diabetes include heavy water consumption, and consequently, heavy urination. Obesity can lead to diabetes, but not all diabetic cats are fat. If your cat drinks and urinates a lot, or if she is overweight, consider having her tested for diabetes.



Some cases can be managed with changes in diet, but many diabetic cats require daily insulin injection to control excess blood sugar. If that is true for your cat, your vet can teach you to give the injections at home and to monitor blood sugar with urine glucose strips available from any pharmacy.



He also can explain what to do if your cat's blood sugar drops too low from the insulin injections. Even with careful home care and monitoring, you will need to take your cat to the vet frequently to be sure that her insulin dosage is correct.



Pancreatitis is a potentially fatal inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, and elevated heart rate. Eating too much fatty food can bring on an attack of pancreatitis, or it can be caused by certain infections, medication, metabolic disorders, trauma or shock.



If your cat is diagnosed with pancreatitis, your vet will probably advise you to withhold food for a short period to give the pancreas a chance to rest and recover. He also may administer fluids and electrolytes to combat dehydration and may prescribe other treatments to manage potential complications or to address the suspected cause of the pancreatitis.

Feline Diabetes and What You Must Know to Help Your Diabetic Cat

If you're like most people, you don't know much about feline diabetes. However, the rate of diabetes in cats is skyrocketing, with more and more cats being diagnosed as diabetic every day. If you are owned by a feline, here's what you need to know about cat diabetes.



Feline Diabetes And Your Kitty



You probably know that your pet's pancreas produces insulin. This hormone helps to balance glucose levels in your pet's blood. But where does the glucose come from?



All the food your pet eats is digested by his body into a form that can be used. Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are all broken down into glucose, which fuels the body. The glucose goes into the bloodstream, and it's sent all over the body. However, there has to be a balance between glucose and insulin. If there's too much insulin, the amount of glucose will drop too low, which leads to hypoglycemia. If the levels become dangerously low, it affects the brain and neurological functioning, and can cause death very quickly.



If there's not enough insulin, levels of glucose will rise too high. Over a period of time, high sugar levels will damage every organ in the body, including the nerves, and the kidneys. You can see that having the right amount of insulin present is very important.



If the pancreas stops producing insulin, that results in type 1 diabetes. If insulin is present, but the body can't use it, that's called type 2 diabetes.



How Is A Feline Diabetic Treated?



The goal of treatment is to keep the amount of glucose in your kitty's blood in the normal range. Insulin shots are given to keep those levels normal. This is called "regulating," and it can be difficult to find the right balance between insulin and glucose at first.



The most important thing you can do to regulate your furball is to test his blood glucose levels at home. Otherwise you really have no clue as to what's going on with him. You'll either test him by using strips to check his urine for glucose, or you'll use a glucometer like people use to check his blood. Most people cringe at the thought of doing this, but it's not difficult. Your vet can show you how to do it.



Keeping to a regular feeding schedule is a basic part of caring for a diabetic cat. Your kitty must eat the food you give him when you give it to him to prevent spikes and dips in his glucose levels. Always wait until after a meal to give him an insulin shot to avoid hypoglycemia if he doesn't eat.



Did You Know That Natural Remedies For Cats Are Safe And Effective For A Diabetic Cat?



There has been a lot of interest lately in using herbs and dietary supplements to regulate blood sugar in humans. Studies have shown that these remedies are safe and effective for use on our feline friends, as well.



Goat's rue, fenugreek, and astragalus have a long history of use in humans. Chromium is an essential nutrient that is often deficient in our diets. These ingredients are all known to promote healthy levels of glucose in the body. Now these ingredients have been combined into a remedy that's safe and effective for pets. It's safe to use right along with the insulin you give your kitty, plus it's very easy to give to your pet. Just open the capsule and sprinkle it over your kitty's food.



You'll want to read testimonials from pet owners who have been able to reduce or eliminate the insulin dose their kitty needed by using this remedy. What are you waiting for? Help your feline diabetic today by starting him on a natural remedy for cats.

Natural Treatment of Feline Diabetes Can Totally Resolve It

Feline diabetes is becoming quite common. And there are some very effective homeopathic medicines which can help. But I believe there is an underlying cause. And that if this is addressed, the problem will disappear. I believe cats are too toxic. In some ways, this is a by product of today's' industrialised world. You can't get away from that. But I don't believe that is the heart of the problem. It's closer to home.



Cats are very sensitive to chemicals. Much more so than we are, so the use of chemical household cleaning products may not be doing them any good. But the real reason behind feline diabetes, in my opinion, is their diet. If you feed your cat any form of a processed cat food, this is the most likely cause.



Processed cat food starts of with low grade meat or meat by-products. The better cuts are sold for human consumption, where a better price can be asked. Then a cheap filler is added, to bulk out the 'meat'. This can be anything from sawdust, to sugar, to crushed nut shells, to melamine. None of this is in your cat's interest. And the addition of the sugar may be the straw that broke the camel's back, as the saying goes.



But, by far the most damaging ingredient will be the preservative which allows a long shelf life. Good for business, but is it good for your cat? Despite the label, preservatives must be used to ensure this long shelf life. And they are toxic. So toxic, they would not be allowed in human food. But as there are no laws governing cat food, they can legally be used. What am I talking about?



Eyhoxyquin. Carbolic acid. Formaldehyde. I'm sure there are others I am yet to discover. So by changing your cat's diet to quality raw meat and bones and eliminating all processed cat food, you may find your cat makes a full recovery from feline diabetes. Without any other help.

Cats Can Have Diabetes Too

Knowledge about feline diabetes is important in order to take special care of your cat. Diabetes is a serious complaint which touches millions of humans, but your cat can also be affected by it. Cat care and diabetes control go hand in hand to ensure your cat can live an otherwise normal life.



There are two types of feline diabetes that might impact your pet: type 1 is induced by an insufficient production of insulin, and type 2 is characterized by the inability of the cat's body to process the insulin effectively. As happens with humans, the condition can impact a cat regardless of age, but it is most typical with cats over six years old. It can develop in any gender or breed. However, the typical patients are overweight, older, neutered male cats.



The early signs and symptoms of feline diabetes are very similar to what one expects in humans, which vets or pet owners can easily spot. These symptoms will tell informed pet owners and veterinarians of the beginning of the disease. As the body becomes incapable of processing glucose, the cat shows symptoms of excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination and may also lose weight. Other symptoms of feline diabetes include vomiting, loss of appetite and overall weakness and lethargy. In addition, the cat may have bad skin and coat condition as well as respiratory issues. Urine and blood sugar screening ought to be scheduled when owners see such symptoms in their pets. Since blood sugar may rise temporarily if the cat is frightened or is in any type of stressful situation, it is a good decision to get both the screens done. These two tests will help affirm if your cat actually does have the disease.



Feline diabetes, like the human form, has no cure yet but it can be controlled through a number of means. In overweight cats, the condition can be regulated through a diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. This diet is not only perfect for blood sugar control, but is also good for weight loss. Dietary supplements are also available to help diabetic felines deal with their condition. Using anti-diabetic drugs is another option to keep blood glucose levels in standard range.



Regular monitoring of sugar and insulin levels of an at-risk cat is an owner's critical responsibility. For those who decide to personally give their cats insulin injections for their condition, care is imperative to avoid an overdose as it can cause a fatal condition. If you keep the diabetes in check, your cat's quality of life will be better, and you can have many years of healthy companionship.

Sick Cat Symptoms

There are many sick cat symptoms you should watch for. No one knows your cat as well you do. Watch for behavior differences that could mean that he has a medical problem. Cats can have diabetes just like humans. If your cat were to suddenly start drinking more water than normal and urinate everywhere when he was always very good about using the litter box, this may indicate cat diabetes.



Does your cat cough? Although coughing is a normal way of clearing the throat, coughing can mean something else entirely. If your cat's cough last for more than a couple of weeks, you may need to have him checked out. It could be something simple but it could also be a sign of an illness. He could have bronchitis, pneumonia.



You will not know for sure until you have the sick cat symptoms that your cat is displaying checked out by his vet. However, coughing could be a sign of a lung tumor and can be a symptom of heart failure. That is why the cough should not be ignored if it lasts for longer than a couple of weeks.



Another very serious malady of cats is feline immunodeficiency virus infection (FIV). This is more commonly known as a retrovirus. These retroviruses are very good at hiding from your cat's natural immune defense systems. After they multiply, they attack the cat's antibodies. When this happens, your cat becomes prone to illnesses they could normally fend off by themselves. However, with a compromised immune system, they are not able to do so.



This war between the retrovirus and the immune system can cause sick cat symptoms. Symptoms of FIV include fever, a decreased appetite, loss of weight, no energy, and swollen lymph notes. With any type of immune system illness, the chance for leukemia becomes higher. It is imperative that you take your cat to the veterinarian with any of the sick cat symptoms listed above as well as others that can be a sign of FIV or some other illness.



When it comes to illness, our cats are as vulnerable as children are. They depend on us to take care of them and help them when they are not feeling well. For your cat to enjoy a long and happy life, make sure you check any sick cat symptoms.

Cats With Diabetes - Causes, Symptoms and Helpful Treatments

Diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in humans, but did you know that cats with diabetes are also on the rise? Diabetes is due to inadequate production of insulin by the pancreas, or an inadequate response of the cells to insulin, and without insulin, the body cannot utilize glucose; elevated blood sugar levels are the result. In cats, excess glucose is eliminated by the kidneys, producing frequent urination. To make up for the water lost, diabetic cats will drink excessive amounts of water. Other symptoms may include sudden weight loss (or occasional gain), ravenous or absent appetite and weak back legs.



Cats with diabetes can be treated, but the disease is fatal if left alone. The cat must go on a low carbohydrate diet, which is a critical component of treatment. In many cases it is effective on its own. Low carbohydrate diets have the ability to reduce the amount of insulin needed. Therefore, it keeps blood sugar normal. So how do you put your cat on a low-carbohydrate diet? Carbohydrate levels are highest in dry cat foods, so cats are best off with canned food. Canned food can sometimes be prescribed for diabetic cats, but veterinarians sometimes recommend commercial canned food as well. A veterinarian can help you decide which type of food is best for your cat.



Diabetes mellitus isn't just treated through diet, sometimes cats need more changes to their lifestyles. They may need to be injected with insulin to be kept healthy and there are some oral medications that can be given; however, they are mainly used when insulin is not an option for some reason. This is because they typically have more unpleasant side effects. To establish insulin therapy, veterinarians may administer blood and urine tests and physical examinations. It is important to never adjust insulin therapy on your own because it can cause complications.



There is currently no evidence that suggests diabetes can be prevented in cats. One way to lower your cat's risk of developing diabetes is to implement a pet weight management plan and make sure that you are promoting healthy diet and exercise. Obesity is definitely a risk factor in diabetes but it is also known that some breeds are more prone to diabetes than others. It may not matter how healthy your cat is, he/she may just be susceptible to the disease because of genetics.



The best way to prevent complications from feline diabetes is by keeping a close eye on your cat. If he/she doesn't currently have diabetes, watch out for the symptoms, especially frequent urination and increased thirst. If your cat already has diabetes, be sure to regularly visit the vet, administer proper treatment and watch out for symptoms of diabetes complications. Complications that may come about from feline diabetes include: diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy and cataracts. It can also lead to various problems with the skin, liver, kidneys, joints and body infections.

Complications of Feline Diabetes

Feline diabetes can have many complications. Skin problems, liver and kidney damage, weakness in your kitty's legs, and an increased risk of infections are possible. It's important to monitor your furry friend's blood sugar levels carefully every day to prevent these problems.



Your kitty develops this disease when his pancreas either doesn't produce enough insulin, or when his body doesn't use insulin efficiently. The lack of insulin causes his body to start breaking down his own fat and protein for energy, instead of the starches and carbohydrates in his food. This causes him to lose weight, even though he's eating more. His body tries to flush out the extra sugar in his blood by making him drink more, and this leads to increased urination.



Feline diabetes, if not treated, will certainly shorten your friend's lifespan. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially fatal condition that's caused when your kitty's body uses his fat for energy. The result is that acids called ketones are produced. When they circulate in the blood, ketones cause loss of appetite, nausea, and lethargy.



DKA is often a result of undiagnosed diabetes. This is an emergency, and your furry friend needs immediate veterinary care with IV fluids to stabilize him. Diabetic neuropathy in cats may be an early sign of this disease in your kitty. It can also show up in later stages. Weakness in his back legs is a result of nerve damage caused by high blood glucose levels. Your kitty will walk or stand with his hocks (the "elbows" of his back legs) touching the ground.



If your buddy had this disease for a long time before it was controlled, he may lose some function in his back legs, due to the nerve damage. But sometimes the weakness in his legs is called by muscle wasting from disuse. In this case, exercise is helpful, and it can reduce his dependence on insulin.



Hepatic lipidosis is a liver disease that is a serious complication. Overweight kitties seem to develop this problem more often. When your buddy stops eating for whatever reason, his body starts using his fat for energy. If too much fat is broken down, it builds up in his liver, causing it to swell. Symptoms of hepatic lipidosis include refusing to eat, vomiting, weight loss, lethargy, and jaundice. Your kitty may have a yellowish look to the whites of his eyes, his gums, and the insides of his ears.



Trying to get him to eat is essential. Your vet may have to put in a feeding tube if he won't eat anything. While this condition is usually fatal if it's not treated, most kitties do recover after tube feeding.



Vomiting and diarrhea and other stomach upsets are common with diabetic kitties. Pancreatitis, which is a painful inflammation of the pancreas, can lead to maldigestion syndrome. In this condition, the pancreas doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes. Your kitty can't digest the food he eats, and he can starve, even though he's eating.



Your buddy is more prone to infections, too. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, and UTIs that keep coming back can be a sign that your buddy's blood sugar levels are too high.



Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can be very dangerous. It's usually caused by an overdose of insulin. This can happen if he's skipped a meal or threw up after you gave him insulin. Hypoglycemia can also be caused by extra exercise, too.



Low blood sugar may cause your furball to become weak and listless, start drooling, and lose his coordination. He may have convulsions or go into a coma, which can be fatal. Feed him right away, and if he can't swallow, rub some corn syrup on his gums. Don't put your fingers in his mouth if he's having seizures!



To avoid complications, it's important to establish a routine with your furry friend. He needs to eat the same amount of food every day at the same time. Try to avoid making big changes in the amount of exercise he gets. Be sure he get the same dose of insulin at the same time each day too.

Know the Symptoms of Pet Diabetes

Diabetes in pets, either a cat or as dog, can be just as dangerous and life-threatening as in humans.



Pet symptoms are similar to human symptoms, with excessive urination and excessive thirstiness being a main one. This is caused by the level of glucose in the blood rising too high and the kidneys letting excess glucose leak into the urine. This is why a glucose urine test is a normal means of diagnosing diabetes. Leaking of glucose into urine takes water with it increasing the volume of urine produced and the correspondent need to drink more and more.



Another symptom is diseased animals tend to lose weight. This is because the lack of insulin produced by the animal causes the animal's body to breakdown fat stores and muscles to produce ketones and sugar in the liver. Insulin is a hormone that ensures transportation of glucose from the blood to muscles and other tissues. Insufficient production of this hormone by the pancreas or insensitivity to its effects causes the diabetes.



A further symptom of high blood sugar or hyperglycemia is inflammation of the blood vessels in the pet's eyes.



The whites of the eyes become bright red, like oxygenated arterial blood and slowly regain their normal color as blood glucose levels are normalized. Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is also characterized by inflammation of the whites of the eyes, except instead of a bright red color the color is a darker red, like non-oxygenated or venous blood. This is especially true of dogs, but hypoglycemia doesn't seem to present itself this way in cats.



Left untreated hyperglycemia can cause blindness in pets in a very short time. Other complications are dehydration, neuropathy of the legs and permanent tissue damage from glucose toxicity. Hypoglycemia, or low-blood sugar presents itself as shaking or trembling like shivering no matter what the temperature and can even result in loss of consciousness. Quick intervention with honey or other glucose product rubbed on the gums of the animal can help with a recovery. Feeding as soon as possible after the symptoms are noted can ward off the more dire consequences of low-blood sugar.



After diagnosis treatment with insulin is a viable means for pet owners to alleviate the suffering their pets are going through. Instructions on administering daily or twice-daily injections of insulin are available from your veterinarian or from many concerned pet diabetes (www.petdiabetes.com) websites.

Feline Diabetes - Why So Many Cats Are Suffering From This

If you asked the majority of people they probably wouldn't know that feline diabetes exists. If you are a cat owner then you may want to get to know a bit more about the condition. There are many theories as to why more cats are suffering from diabetes but there some that are right under our noses.



What cats should be eatingCats were never meant to be domesticated and eating the dry food that is manufactured for them these days. Cats are designed to eat meat. This is where cats are meant to get their protein from. There is very little protein in grains and dry cat food. Cats can't do very well without the essential amino acids from meat. Instead of going for the dry varieties it is better to give your cat canned food with meat of some sort in it.



Those dreaded carbsMany people think that it's only fat that puts anyone at risk for diabetes and that carbohydrates have nothing to do with it. The truth is that when your carbs are broken down it is sent to your tissues to be used as energy, but remaining ones are turned into fat and stored. It is much easier to put on fat than it is to lose it. This is what puts cats at risk for feline diabetes. You should not be feeding your cat too many carbs. Theoretically they should be eating carbs as around 5% of their diet. Most pet foods these days can contain up to 30%, and even 50%. This is done because carbs are much cheaper to stuff into food than other nutrients.



So before you go refilling your cat's dry food, spare a thought for what their diet should be so you can avoid them suffering from feline diabetes.

Feline Diabetes - Important Information About Your Cat's Health

Cats have always been one of the most amazing pets in America. They have proven to be affectionate pets, suitable of giving people decades of companionship. Much like various pets, felines can at times get ill. Right now there happen to be a number of distinct varieties of health problems of which cats and kittens may pick up, one is feline diabetes. Feline diabetes is actually a truly serious disorder, despite the fact that this will be able to be managed by your vet.



Diabetic issues is considered much more prevalent with people compared with cats as well as various other animal companions. The actual contributing factor associated with diabetes is essentially rather simple. Sugar, or glucose,will be found within the bloodstream. The amount of glucose levels throughout the entire body or the cat is definitely kept under control by means of hormone insulin, that the pancreas generates. Anytime the pancreas won't manufacture a sufficient amount of blood insulin, diabetes is to blame.



The actual warning signs of feline diabetes may differ. The many typical indicators consist of an increase in urine as well as a serious increase in thirst. Additional signs or symptoms associated with feline diabetes consist of a reduction involving appetite, weight loss, together with a poor coat. A surge in thirst is simple to identify, since anyone will quickly discover the water bowl empty through the day.



In the event that you do not have your kitty taken care of for feline diabetes right away, the cat would sooner or later end up inactive, throw-up on a regular basis, as well as at some point slip into a coma. furthermore,when you get the diabetic issues dealt with in a period of time, the cat will certainly more than likely live a natural not to mention healthy and balanced life. Always keep in mind that healing will not occur right away - this usually takes time along with commitment.



Kittens and cats that get feline diabetes will certainly have to be provided with food at the same time period each day. They must be kept away from going outdoors also. Should your kitty have diabetes, you are going to want to provide him with insulin injections once or twice a day. As soon as your vet assesses your cat, they can explain to you precisely how many shots in addition to just how many insulin shots you will need to administer your cat.



Just before you decide to give your kitty their insulin injection, you will need to definitely ensure that he has a certain amount of food initially. In case he has not had his food and you give him a shot regardless, your cat might wind up with a hypoglycemic shock. That could likewise happen through an excessive amount of insulin too. A hypo could be extremely damaging, and ought to be prevented no matter what. Should the cat get a hypoglycemic shock and you are not available, he could possibly result in perishing.



Whenever you have to give insulin injections to your kitty due to feline diabetes, you must at all times maintain a careful eye on him soon after you have given the shot. Once your cat has been on insulin for a stretch of time, your veterinarian may well decrease the amount of insulin shots. Quite possibly however he might have to remain on insulin the rest of his life, your kitty will certainly live an otherwise wholesome lifespan.



Article Written By J. Foley

Diabetes and Yeast Infection - What is the Role of Diabetes?

 Is diabetes and yeast infection co-related? Well, it is a well known fact that diabetes is a state that has many health problems attached with it. One of such possibilities is the occurrence of infections of yeast through diabetes, although many would not like to be very expressive about it.  People believe that having it is an embarrassing situation and would not like to discuss about it. 



In order to understand the link between the two, it is important to know how the skin infections occur. A lot of bacteria are present in the gastro-intestinal tract. Due to changes in lifestyle and diet, this balance is disturbed. One of such bacteria present is yeast.  



How does this infection take place? 



One of the main causes of yeast overgrowth is chronic infections.  This results on account of presence of too much sugar. Not only that it results in diabetes, but also causes Candida infections. If there are repetitive Candida outbreaks, then it would be well advisable to have the levels of glucose checked in your blood. Although diabetes is not the only reason for the incidence of a chronic infection, a high level of sugar consumption surely triggers this condition. Yeast is fed by sugars present in the body, in the same fashion as yeast type foods and carbohydrates. 



Yeast infection and diabetes: 



An important complication of diabetes is that the blood sugar levels if not kept under control could trigger such a skin infection. This happens because an increased level of glucose in the body does affect many other bodily mechanisms and has a tremendous influence on the body's immune status. 



If you happen to suffer from diabetes, chances are you will find yourself constantly battling with Candida outbreaks.  In its advanced form, along with vaginal infections and thrush, you also experience chronic fatigue, pain in the joints and knees, loss of memory, intestinal problems like constipation and diarrhoea and dizziness.  In general you experience bad health at all times. 



Depending upon the gravity of the disease, the treatment of this infection coupled with diabetes can often be complex.  However, a diet that is low in sugar is an absolute must. This will suppress the yeast fungus by letting it starve and ultimately destroys it.  Another precaution to be taken is avoiding the consumption of mushrooms, honey and dried fruits that also help a lot in feeding the yeast. If you can remain on diet for a three to six months period, you can gradually re-introduce them into your diet thereafter depending on your situation.  



Apart from the above suggestions, you can also try certain holistic treatments in order to get rid of diabetes and yeast infections.  You can also consider following a simple Candida Diet that could help prevent any further recurring infections.

Feline Diabetes Information You Can Use

Cat owners who have just been told that their cat has feline diabetes will need to find out all they can about this disease so that they can feel confident when helping their cat. While feline diabetes is treatable it is a serious disease. Your vet will give your instructions regarding feeding your cat, danger signs to watch out for, exercising your cat, monitoring your cat's thirst and how to give your cat the insulin shots that he will need as part of his treatment.



To prevent hypoglycemic shock you must make sure that you cat has eaten before giving him the insulin shot.



Your cat probably exhibited some of these signs before he was diagnosed: increased appetite, weight loss, lethargy and possibly weakness in the rear legs. You may have noticed poor hair coat, and your cat may have had a secondary bacterial infection. Sometimes the dangerous condition known as ketoacidosis may have developed.



Your vet probably did some blood and urine tests in order to make the diagnosis of feline diabetes.



The disease diabetes is a complex disease and it is not going to be possible for a cat owner to understand all the information available right away. Your vet will be there to help educate you and will also steer you to some good resources and support groups.



The sad fact is that if you do not treat your cat's diabetes, your cat will die. Your cat will not object too terribly much to the injections, in fact he will get used to them. Insulin is very inexpensive, and home testing is doable, and an inexpensive way to monitor your cat's condition. Working closely with your vet and learning how to monitor and treat your cat can lead to many more happy years with your cat.



A few cats may be treated with only diet and oral medication though most cats will need to have insulin shots once or twice a day. The need for insulin may fluctuate. Your vet will help you to determine when the need for insulin changes.



Your cat will need to have regular vet visits to check how he is responding to treatment and to make any needed adjustments to his treatment.



Initially your cat may be hospitalized in order to regulate and treat his diabetes. However, most cats do not need to be hospitalized in order to start the treatment plan.



You will need to monitor your cat's diabetes at home using either urine or a blood test system. Your vet will go over your options with you and you can then decide which method is right for you.



Warning Signs:



Warning signs that your cat may not be getting enough insulin include excessive urination, high glucose in the urine, weight loss, depression, dull or dry fur, dandruff, lethargy and a change in pupil size (in some cats)



Signs that you cat is doing well on his diabetes therapy are:



Purring, Peeing, Pooping, Playing and Preening as well as having a normal amount of appetite and thirst.

Cat Illnesses

The first time you decide to take in a pet cat feels similar to taking home your first baby. You're excited, scared, happy and undoubtedly proud of your newest addition to the family - all at the same time. And just like taking care of a newborn baby, taking care of a kitten would require an equal amount of attention and affection. When I first got our cat, with which my daughter named Miming, my daughter and I had a long talk with the veterinarian on how to take care of little Miming.



Among the first things we wanted to learn about were the illnesses that cats acquire. My daughter was quite vocal about her confusion whether cats also get colds and stomach aches just like she does. And she continued to ask on about the food that we could not give Miming. And yes, cats also get sick.



Here is a list of the most common signs that your little kitty may not be feeling too well:



1. Refusal to eat and loss of appetite - Most cats are always eager to eat; you would often hear them purring when they hear utensils and plates clinking or when they smell food cooking. Once there are changes in your cat's pattern and environmental factors such as stress, outside home feeding, and change in surroundings are eliminated, there is a high probability that your cat is really sick.



2. Refusal to socialize, or in such bad humor - a cat has always been keen to keeping her place high on the ground. More often than not, a cat may be playful and sweet, but a cat will always be demanding. Once a cat retreats to its cot or to a quiet and dark place, without the usual playfulness and upbeat character, she is most likely suffering from an illness of some sort.



3. Unimpressive fur or "Bad Hair Day" - Cats are known to keep their furs at tip top shape. When you notice your cat having a "bad hair day" for consecutive days, and hair is erect and separated, the cat is trying to regulate its body temperature. Yes, cats can also have fevers.



4. Profuse vomiting - Hair balls tend to grow in their stomachs and vomiting is the cat's way of eliminating the foreign object from their system. When they have eaten too much, or have eaten something that upsets their tummy, vomiting is the first aid that cats resort to.



5. Difficulty in urinating and Constipation - Cats have urinating and defecating patterns, and once these patterns are altered, cats usually are not feeling well. Changes in the behavior including the above mentioned, suggests an illness or your cat may be suffering from stress.



Different cats exhibit different symptoms when they are sick. However, feline illnesses are usually diagnosed once one or two of the above symptoms manifest.



Common illnesses of cats include ear infections and ear mites, which are marked by foul odor, inflammation of the ear cavities, itching and scratching, continuous head shaking, and swollen ear flaps; Ringworm and other skin allergies are manifested by continuous scratching and itching, head shaking, scaly and darkened skin and hair loss; and Flu and Respiratory Tract infections signaled by sneezing, nasal mucus discharge, loss of appetite and refusal to eat and excessive saliva.



Cats can also have degenerative illnesses like Fatty liver disease, which stemmed from over consumption of high cholesterol food and is characterized by vomiting, seizures, reduced muscle mass and depression; and Cancer, which is characterized by severe loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, frequent urination, depression and enlarged lymph nodes.



Our cats are similar to us human beings, they also suffer from bouts of upset stomachs, colds and flus, diarrhea, skin allergies and yes, even depression. Most cats will eventually feel better after a day of full rest and proper food and water intake.



Once you feel that your cat has remained unresponsive, has refused to eat or unable to urinate and have bowel movements for more than 24 hours, it is best to bring her to a veterinary clinic right away.



It is important to be observant of your cat's daily routine and be mindful of her health so that these symptoms can easily be spotted and cat illnesses easily cured.