Crack the Kitty Code Signs Your Cat Needs Veterinary Care
Cats can be aloof and difficult to read. They have evolved to avoid appearing weak or sick to keep larger animals from preying upon them. As a result, it isn’t always easy to tell when your feline friend isn’t well. Here are five signs your pet may need a veterinarian’s attention. Appetite A marked change in appetite may signal a problem. Cats with liver or kidney disease may eat less and drink more. A hearty appetite and increased thirst may signal a metabolic disease like diabetes. If your cat stops eating or drinking for 24 hours or more, seek help. Energy Level Sick cats usually exhibit less energy than usual. They may sleep more, refuse to play, or carry themselves differently, sitting in a hunched position or awkwardly holding their tails. An abnormal increase in energy can signal a malfunctioning thyroid gland. Also, potentially serious respiratory problems can be detected if your cat is panting or breathing faster than usual. Grooming Habits A cat with matted, clumpy, or dandruff-filled fur is an obvious sign something isn’t right. At the other extreme, overgrooming that causes fur loss or irritated skin may signal an allergy or parasite, such as fleas, mites, or ringworm. If your cat is concentrated on overgrooming near their tail,
it could be a bladder or digestive tract problem symptom.
Litter Box Issues Diarrhea is relatively easy
to spot in a litter box and may be temporary, but it can signal a variety of ailments, including parasites or
infections. Constipation is more difficult to notice but still important. If your pet’s stools are small, hard, and dry, have them checked out. Get help immediately if your pet hasn’t peed normally for 24 hours or if you notice blood or worms in their urine or feces. Dehydration Ailing cats often become dehydrated. Gently lift the skin over your cat’s shoulder blades up and away from their body, then release it. If the skin remains tented over the shoulders rather than contracting immediately, your cat is most likely dehydrated and may need veterinary care. If you see any of these signs or other changes in your cat’s behavior or condition that worry you, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to look at your feline friend and help however we can.
New SCVC Policies • At the time of scheduling a dental or surgery appointment, a $250 deposit will be required. This deposit will be applied to the procedure bill. If you need to cancel the appointment, and you give us at least 24-hour notice, the deposit will be refunded. • Due to the increasing cost of credit card processing, there is now a 3% service charge added to all clinic services and products. If paying with cash, check, or PIN debit, there is no charge.
Clien th ts e SWpr o e r a d ding
Aimee Olson Valerie Harlan Bruce Joss John Gavan Jennifer Matamoros
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