Learning to recognise when your cat is feeling under the weather and being aware of any signs and symptoms that might signal the early onset of disease are both vital in keeping your pet in peak condition.
Knowing when to call your vet for advice and treatment could also help save your cat’s life in an emergency. Your vet will also be able to advise you on how regular check-ups and vaccination can protect your pet against potentially fatal disease. Diseases and danger signs to be aware of include;
Panleukopenia – a highly contagious viral disease of cats often called feline distemper and is most often fatal in young cats. Cat flu is caused by both Feline Calcivirus and Feline Herpes Virus – both cause upper respiratory tract infections in cats. Feline Chlamydophila (formerly known as Chlamydia) causes conjunctivitis with redness and discharge and is usually treated with antibiotics. Feline Leukaemia virus (FeLV) can suppress the immune system and causes a range of serious illnesses in susceptible cats. Bordatella Bronchiseptia and Diabetes are other diseases to consider. More information can be found on all of these by following the links.