THE 7 MOST COMMON VIRUSES AND DISEASES IN CATS

One of the most important parts of your job as a cat-parent is monitoring your cat’s health. It’s important to be aware of the common viruses and diseases that can affect your kitty. Knowing the symptoms of these illnesses, their causes, and how to treat and prevent them are the best way to keep your cat healthy.

Seven of the most common viruses and diseases in cats are: 

• Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)
• Tapeworms
• Cancer
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
• Heartworm Disease
• Ringworm
• Upper Respiratory Infections

Symptoms

Diseases	Symptoms
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD)	Increased water intake Straining to urinate Bloody urine Urinating outside of their litter box Vocalizing when urinating Licking of the genital area Depression Loss of appetite Vomiting
Tapeworms	Vomiting Weight loss Small rice-like segments in their bedding, feces, or anus
Cancer	Lumps Swelling Persistent skin infections or sores Lethargy Weight loss Sudden lameness Diarrhea Dehydration Vomiting Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)	Fever Fatigue Weight loss Skin and respiratory infections Vomiting Diarrhea Oral infections Hair loss
Heartworm Disease	Coughing Breathing difficulties Loss of appetite Weight loss Vomiting Lethargy
Ringworm	Skin lesions (commonly appear on the head, ears, and forelimbs) Flaky bald patches Localized areas of redness or dandruff
Upper Respiratory Infections	Sneezing Congestion  Runny nose and teary eyes Coughing Clear or colored nasal discharge Gagging and drooling Fever Loss of appetite Rapid breathing Nasal and oral ulcers Squinting or rubbing eyes Open-mouth breathing

If your cat is expressing any unusual behaviors or symptoms, take them to your local veterinarian to make a proper diagnosis.