Common cat diseases, illnesses and injuries

‘Cat flu’ is a group of highly contagious upper respiratory infections caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV1) and feline calicivirus (FCV).¹ This common infectious disease is debilitating for all cats but is particularly aggressive in kittens and older cats due to their less developed or compromised immune systems.

Cat flu is highly contagious, as it can spread through indirect and direct contact (e.g. bodily fluids like saliva and nasal discharge or contact with food bowls, litter boxes or human hands). The symptoms of cat flu are like the symptoms of the influenza virus in humans and include sneezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, loss of appetite and mouth and eye ulcers. If untreated, the condition can worsen and cause permanent eye damage, pneumonia or death.

Prevention:
Vaccination is the best prevention, so get your kitten or cat vaccinated against cat flu as early as possible (vaccination can start at six or eight weeks of age).¹

Cancer in cats is caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which form tumours.² While tumours can be benign (non-cancerous), malignant tumours can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Malignant tumours cause serious disease, which is known as cancer.

Although tumours are less common in cats than dogs, they are more likely to be malignant.² Common areas affected by cancer in cats include the skin, blood cells, mouth, stomach, intestines and mammary glands. Cancer is more prevalent in older cats.

Symptoms of cancer can be hard to spot. Still, the possible signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, lumps or masses under the skin, vomiting or diarrhoea, non-healing wounds, unexplained bleeding and changes in the eyes, such as swelling or vision.

Prevention:
While cancer cannot always be prevented, regular veterinary check-ups can help detect tumours early and improve treatment outcomes. Keep an eye on your cat’s health and promptly report any unusual symptoms to your vet. Early detection plays a crucial role in managing cancer effectively.

Fleas are tiny parasites that feed off the blood of many hosts (including you and other animals) and are the most common skin concern in all pets.³ It’s important to treat your cat for fleas immediately for several reasons. Firstly, some pets are allergic to fleas and can contract flea allergy dermatitis – a painful condition that can cause hairless, itchy ‘hot spots’ on their skin. Secondly, flea infections can cause anaemia in pets if left untreated. Common symptoms of flea infection include itching and scratching, skin redness, hair loss and visible fleas on your cat’s body.

Prevention:
Over-the-counter flea products like a spot-on treatment, tablets, a spray or a collar to control fleas can reduce the likelihood of infestation.³ It’s also important to regularly check your cat for fleas, especially if they’ve been outdoors. Try to limit their contact with stray pets and wild animals that may be carrying fleas.

The most common causes of dental disease in cats are plaque and bacteria, which can eventually harden into tartar and cause gingivitis and periodontitis if left untreated.⁴ Periodontitis can escalate further and destroy the bone and supporting teeth around the affected area, leading to tooth loss. Gingivitis and periodontitis are also commonly called gum disease.

Symptoms of dental disease in your cat may include mouth soreness, difficulty eating, reduced appetite, loss of teeth, red or bleeding gums, bad breath, tartar build-up and excessive drooling.

Prevention:
The best way to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis in cats is to brush their teeth to remove plaque regularly.⁴ Be sure to use feline toothpaste, not human products, as these can be toxic to cats.

Ringworm is a fungal disease that can be passed between animals and humans, which makes it particularly difficult to deal with. Ringworm infection occurs when a minor break in the skin is exposed to the fungus.⁵ The fungus lives in soil, animals and humans, which means if your cat has ringworm, you’re at risk of getting it, too. Common symptoms of ringworm infection include hair loss, dry or scaled skin, red ‘ring’ lesions on hairless areas, scratching, and itching. Skin conditions like ringworm are more prevalent in long-haired cats.

Prevention:
Practice good hygiene by regularly grooming your cat. It’s also important to clean pet blankets and bedding and vacuum pet hair.⁵ If your cat is diagnosed with ringworm, treatment typically includes anti-fungal medication and shampoo.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a common, potentially fatal viral disease that affects the cat’s immune system. It’s estimated to infect about a quarter of the Australian cat population.⁶ FIV is typically found in cats’ saliva and transmitted through bite wounds, making it more prevalent in outdoor cats. It’s difficult for the virus to spread through casual contact, so the disease is unlikely to spread through grooming or sharing feeding bowls and litter trays.

The virus causes a gradual decline in immune function, making cats more susceptible to other illnesses and diseases. Common symptoms include fever, gum inflammation, eye and nose discharge, diarrhoea, lethargy, anaemia and weight loss.⁷

An FIV diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence; many FIV-positive cats live up to their average life expectancy and have a similar quality of life to uninfected cats. It’s also worth noting that there’s a distinction between FIV and feline AIDS (although the two terms are often used interchangeably). Feline AIDS is the end stage of the virus, which occurs after a long latency period, although some cats with FIV may never develop feline AIDS.

Prevention:
The best way to protect your cat against FIV is to vaccinate them. The non-core FIV vaccine consists of an initial course of three vaccinations two to four weeks apart, followed by a recommended yearly booster. Reducing your cat’s exposure to the virus by keeping them indoors can also help.

Feline leukemia (FeLV) is a blood virus that often goes undiagnosed until significant damage has been done. Initially, it was mistaken for cancer because it weakens the immune system and bone marrow, making cats more susceptible to secondary infections and cancers.⁶

Feline leukemia is highly contagious and is primarily transmitted through bodily fluids, such as saliva, phlegm, urine and faeces. The virus can be spread between cats during mutual grooming, fights or sharing food and water bowls. Kittens born to infected mothers are at high risk of contracting the virus, particularly during nursing. It is an incurable, terminal disease, and the focus of treatment is on managing symptoms and keeping the cat as comfortable as possible.

The most common symptoms of feline leukemia include slow but consistent weight loss, deterioration of fur, chronic diarrhea, enlarged lymph nodes and seizures. However, these symptoms may not appear until months or even years after the initial infection, making early detection challenging.

Prevention:
Vaccination is the best prevention for feline leukemia, especially for cats at higher risk, such as outdoor cats or those in multi-cat households.^6,7 Spaying or neutering infected cats can help reduce the spread of the virus. Regular veterinary check-ups and testing are essential for early detection and management of the disease.

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), also known as feline viral rhinopneumonitis (FVR), is a common virus that most cats will encounter at some point. It’s one of the leading causes of upper respiratory infections in cats.⁸

Feline herpes is primarily transmitted through bodily secretions such as nasal, saliva and eye discharge. The virus is highly contagious and spreads more easily when cats share litter boxes, food and water bowls, toys or grooming tools. It can also be passed from a mother cat to kittens during pregnancy. While there is no cure for feline herpes, treatment can effectively manage the condition.

The most common symptoms of feline herpes include sneezing, nasal discharge and congestion, watery eyes, fever and fatigue. These symptoms can last up to two weeks and can be debilitating for affected cats.

Prevention:
While feline herpes cannot be cured, vaccination can help reduce the severity of the disease and prevent flare-ups.⁸ It’s important to vaccinate your cat early, especially if they’re at higher risk due to exposure to other cats. Regular vaccinations are the best preventive measure to protect against the virus and its complications.

Cats can’t cool down like humans do and rely only on panting and the few sweat glands in their paws and noses to release heat.⁹ Being trapped in a hot environment, inadequate drinking water or shade, dehydration and excessive exercise can contribute to heatstroke.

Heatstroke in cats can be fatal, as it could cause organ failure. Common symptoms of dehydration may include dizziness, vomiting, little to no urination, rapid panting or breathing distress, lethargy, muscle tremors, nose bleeds and anxiety.

Prevention:
Ensure your cat always has fresh water and access to a cool, shaded area indoors and outside.⁹ Long-haired and medium-haired cats may require clipping during the warmer months. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight can also help to prevent heatstroke.

Abscesses are painful build-ups of pus underneath the skin or between organs. Bacterial infections cause this common condition and are generally acquired from catfight-related injuries.¹⁰ Common symptoms of abscesses include swelling of the affected area, swollen glands (lymph nodes), fever, pain and skin rupture. The healing time for an abscess can vary from cat to cat.

Prevention:
Abscesses are often caused by injuries incurred in cat fights, so keep your cat away from unknown or stray cats to avoid scuffles.¹⁰ You also may want to get your adult cat de-sexed, which may reduce aggressive and territorial behaviour.

Diabetes mellitus is a common hormonal (endocrine) condition in cats, caused by a deficiency or insufficient production of insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas.² Insulin plays a crucial role in regulating the movement of glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the body’s cells, where it’s used for energy. Without enough insulin, blood glucose levels rise, and the body cannot use glucose effectively. As a result, the body starts breaking down fat as an alternative energy source.

Diabetes in cats is commonly caused by obesity and can typically be managed successfully with ongoing medical treatment, but it requires prompt diagnosis and early intervention. Cats with diabetes are at risk of other health issues, such as hind limb weakness, liver enlargement or urinary tract infections.

Symptoms of diabetes in cats include increased urination, increased thirst, weight loss, increased appetite, poor coat condition and lethargy.

Prevention:
The best way to prevent diabetes in cats is to maintain a healthy weight and provide opportunities for regular exercise.² A balanced diet and routine veterinary check-ups are also essential for keeping your cat’s blood sugar levels in check. If you notice any signs of diabetes, consult your veterinarian promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

Obesity in cats is becoming more prevalent, with pet owners keeping their cats indoors while also overfeeding them. Obesity can increase the risk of common cat diseases and significantly shorten your cat’s lifespan.² Symptoms to watch out for include weight gain, excess body fat and difficulty walking or exercising.

Prevention:
Feeding your feline a balanced diet, following your vet’s feeding guidelines, enforcing strict mealtimes and portion control, and ensuring your cat gets enough playtime for their size and breed can help prevent and manage obesity. ¹² Remember, your cat’s wellness starts with you.

Cats, especially young ones or those not given enough stimulation, may accidentally swallow foreign objects, which can lead to serious health issues like obstruction, choking, poisoning or other life-threatening complications.¹¹ Common foreign bodies ingested by cats include needles and thread, string, rubber bands, dental floss, coins, small objects and cooked bones.

Some of these foreign bodies can cause significant damage to the intestines and may require surgical removal. Signs that your cat may have swallowed a foreign object include lethargy, vomiting, refusal to eat, choking or difficulty breathing. You may also notice something stuck in your cat’s mouth or under their tongue. In any of these cases, seeking immediate veterinary help is important.

Prevention:
Preventing foreign body ingestion is key. Keep harmful objects, such as small toys, strings and food waste, out of your cat’s reach.¹¹ Provide your cat with safe, appropriate toys, ensuring they don’t have any small parts or string-like components that could be ingested. Be vigilant about what your cat can access, particularly in trash bins. Regularly check the environment to reduce the risk of

Cats can become seriously ill from ingesting toxic substances directly or by grooming contaminated fur. ¹¹ Common poisons include household items (such as cleaning products, human medications, antifreeze and beauty products), pesticides, dog flea treatments and certain plants, especially lilies, which are highly toxic to cats.

Poisoning can often be fatal, so if you suspect your cat has ingested something poisonous, contact your veterinarian immediately and seek urgent treatment. You may be asked to bring a sample of the substance or its packaging to help identify the poison.

Symptoms of poisoning in cats may vary but can include vomiting or diarrhoea, weakness, seizures, tremors, excitability or depression, pale gums, difficulty breathing, swelling or inflammation of the skin, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), increased drinking or difficulty urinating, bleeding or brushing and loss of appetite.

Prevention:
The best way to prevent poisoning is to secure any toxic substances that could harm cats.¹¹ Store household cleaning products, medications, pesticides and beauty products safely out of reach. Avoid having poisonous plants in or around your home and be particularly cautious with lilies. Also, keep toxic foods – such as onions, chocolate, raisins and fruit stones – away from your cat.

While it’s often said that “cats always land on their feet,” this is not always true. One of the most common cat accidents is falling from high places, such as balconies or open windows.¹¹ These falls can lead to serious injuries, including fractures (of the jaw, face, limbs or teeth), ligament damage and harm to internal organs like the bladder and lungs.

If your cat falls from any height, seeking immediate veterinary care is crucial, as the injuries may not be immediately visible or obvious. Even if your cat seems okay, internal injuries could still be present.

Prevention:
To prevent falls, it’s essential to cat-proof your home.¹¹ Secure balconies by installing barriers, and make sure windows are fitted with cat-proof screens to keep your cat from accessing dangerous areas. Keeping windows closed or screened off, especially in high-rise buildings, can help protect your cat from accidental falls.

Cat collars with identification tags are an important form of identification, in addition to microchipping. However, they must be used safely to prevent injury. Cats can suffer collar injuries if the collar doesn’t release under tension, such as when it gets caught on a fence or when the cat’s leg becomes stuck through the collar.¹¹ Outdoor cats, in particular, are at risk of these injuries, as they can prevent the cat from returning home and lead to the collar embedding into the skin, causing severe tissue damage, pain and infection.

Prevention:
To prevent collar injuries, supervise your cat’s outdoor access and ensure you use a properly fitted collar with a quick-release mechanism.¹¹ This will allow the collar to come off if it gets snagged, reducing the risk of injury.

A cat’s tail is vulnerable to injury in many ways, including getting caught in a door, during cat fights, in car accidents or from accidental pulling by a person or child.¹¹ Even if there’s no visible external injury, tail pull injuries can cause nerve damage and fractures and may be associated with other injuries, such as damage to the pelvis, hind legs or spine.

Signs of a tail pull injury may include dragging the tail, pain or swelling in the tail, difficulty walking on the hind legs or urinary dribbling. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate veterinary care, including radiographs (X-rays) to assess the damage.

Prevention:

To prevent tail injuries, keep your cat safely contained and supervise interactions with children to ensure they understand how to handle a cat gently.¹¹

In Australia, there are core and non-core vaccinations. Core vaccines protect cats against (potentially fatal) feline diseases like cat flu (FCV), feline herpesvirus and feline panleukopenia combined within a single vaccine, commonly known as the ‘F3’ vaccine.¹³

When your cat is a kitten, their immune system is still developing. Therefore, it’s important to get them vaccinated as soon as possible. The first core vaccine should be given at six or eight weeks, followed by a booster vaccine every two to four weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age.

Non-core vaccines for FeLV, FIV, and Chlamydia felis will incur additional costs. Consult your local vet on a vaccination schedule for your pet.

Blood tests for cats can help diagnose deficiencies or viral infections early, giving your furry friend a better chance at recovery and a healthy life.¹⁴ Vets typically recommend blood tests for cats during annual check-ups. Blood screening is essential when your cat is young and up until their immune system is fully developed; as your pet ages, they tend to develop more health issues (similar to humans). Vets may also ask for a blood test if your cat is prescribed medications or needs surgery under anaesthetic. This ensures they have a complete picture of your feline’s health.

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