Cat Health Guide
15 conditions • Expert-reviewed information
Temperature
100.5-102.5°F (38.1-39.2°C)
Heart Rate
140-220 bpm
Respiratory Rate
20-30 breaths/min
🚨 Emergency Conditions — Know the Signs
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
A common and potentially life-threatening syndrome in cats involving inflammation of the bladder and urethra. Can cause urinary blockage in male cats, which is a medical emergency.
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
A once-fatal viral disease caused by a mutated feline coronavirus. Historically a death sentence, but now treatable with antiviral therapy (GS-441524/Remdesivir). Early detection is critical.
Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
A highly contagious and often fatal viral disease — the feline equivalent of canine parvovirus. Causes severe destruction of white blood cells and intestinal lining. Vaccination is highly protective.
Feline Hepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver Disease)
The most common liver disease in cats. Occurs when an anorexic cat mobilizes excessive fat stores, overwhelming the liver. A potentially fatal consequence of a cat not eating. Aggressive nutritional support is lifesaving.
Conditions by Body System
digestive System
Feline Diabetes Mellitus
A common endocrine disorder where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar. Most cats have Type 2-like diabetes associated with obesity. With proper management, many cats achieve diabetic remission.
Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS)
A severely painful, chronic inflammatory condition of the mouth. Cats develop an exaggerated immune response to dental plaque. Often requires full-mouth tooth extraction for relief.
Feline Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas, often occurring alongside intestinal and liver disease (triaditis). Unlike dogs, cats often show vague signs — lethargy and decreased appetite rather than vomiting.
Constipation and Megacolon in Cats
A condition where the colon becomes dilated and loses the ability to contract effectively, causing severe constipation. Can be dietary, behavioral, or idiopathic. In severe cases, the colon becomes permanently damaged and requires surgical removal.
respiratory System
Feline Asthma (Allergic Bronchitis)
A chronic inflammatory respiratory condition similar to human asthma. Affects 1-5% of cats. Causes coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Manageable with proper treatment.
Heartworm-Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD) in Cats
Cats are atypical hosts for heartworm, but even a single worm can cause severe, potentially fatal respiratory disease. Prevention is essential — there is no approved adulticide treatment for cats.
Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (Cat Flu)
Extremely common in cats, especially in shelters and multi-cat environments. Most often caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and calicivirus (FCV). Similar to the common cold in humans but can be serious in kittens and immunocompromised cats.
cardiovascular System
Feline Hyperthyroidism
The most common endocrine disease in older cats, caused by a benign thyroid tumor overproducing thyroid hormone. Causes weight loss despite ravenous appetite. Highly treatable.
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
One of the most important infectious diseases of cats worldwide. A retrovirus that suppresses the immune system and causes cancer (lymphoma, leukemia). Infected cats may live years with good management but are highly contagious to other cats.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
A lentivirus (similar to HIV in humans) that progressively weakens the cat's immune system. Cats can live many healthy years with FIV before becoming immunocompromised. NOT transmissible to humans.
Cat Health Tips
Annual Check-ups
Schedule yearly veterinary exams including blood work for cats over 7 years old. Early detection saves lives.
Dental Care
Dental disease affects 80% of cats by age 3. Brush teeth regularly and schedule professional cleanings.
Weight Management
Obesity shortens lifespan and predisposes to arthritis, diabetes, and other conditions. Use a body condition score to monitor.
Parasite Prevention
Keep up with flea, tick, and heartworm prevention year-round — not just in summer.
Know the Emergencies
Learn the signs of common cat emergencies: bloat (dogs), urinary blockage (cats), poisoning, and severe trauma.
Nutrition
Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for life stage. Consult your vet before making major diet changes.