Most Common Diseases in Cats and Early Warning Signs

What are the most common diseases in cats?

Common diseases in cats are health problems affecting specific systems, arising from factors such as living environment, age, diet, immune status, and environmental factors. While some of these diseases are acute and show symptoms quickly, a significant portion are chronic and progress silently . Therefore, if not detected early, they can lead to serious complications.

In general, common diseases in cats are grouped into the following main categories:

Basic Classification of Diseases in Cats

• Digestive system disorders (conditions characterized by vomiting , diarrhea , and loss of appetite )

• Respiratory illnesses (sneezing, runny nose , eye problems)

• Infectious diseases (viral and bacterial agents)

• Parasitic diseases (problems caused by internal and external parasites)

• Urinary tract and kidney diseases

• Oral and dental diseases

• Skin and hair diseases

• Hormonal and metabolic diseases

• Neurological and behavioral disorders

Most of these diseases begin with mild symptoms in the initial stages . Because cats naturally tend to hide their pain and discomfort, small changes seen early on can often be overlooked. However, these small changes are the first signs of serious health problems that may develop later.

Especially in house cats;

• Inactivity,

• Small changes in dietary routine,

• Differences in toilet habits,

• Withdrawal of social behaviors

Situations like these can be indicative of an underlying condition.

Early Warning Signs in Cats (Symptom Chart)

Early warning signs are the most valuable clues for detecting the disease in its early stages. These symptoms may seem harmless on their own; however, if they persist , increase in severity , or appear together with multiple symptoms, they must be taken seriously.

The table below summarizes common early signs in cats, along with their possible disease groups:

Symptom	Possible Disease/System	Explanation
Anorexia	Digestive, kidney, infectious diseases	Loss of appetite lasting longer than 24 hours is a significant warning sign.
Sudden weight loss	Metabolic, hormonal, chronic diseases	It is frequently seen in diabetes and thyroid problems.
Vomiting	Digestive system, parasites	Repeated vomiting should be taken seriously.
Diarrhea	Digestive, infectious, parasitic diseases	Prolonged diarrhea leads to fluid loss.
Drinking excessive water	Kidney, diabetes	Increased water consumption should be noticed early.
Frequent urination	Urinary tract diseases	More frequent and smaller amounts of urine in the litter box.
Difficulty urinating	Lower urinary tract problems	It may require emergency intervention.
Weakness	General health problems	Low energy levels are a common symptom of many illnesses.
Dullness in the fur	Skin, nutrition, systemic diseases	Hair that has lost its shine is a warning sign.
Bad breath	Dental and oral diseases	It is frequently seen in tartar and gum problems.
Sneeze	Respiratory tract infections	Eye and nasal discharge may accompany the condition.
eye discharge	Viral respiratory diseases	It is especially common in kittens.
The desire to hide	Pain, stress, systemic diseases	Behavioral change is an important sign.
Increased aggression	Pain-related problems	It is the behavioral manifestation of silent pain.
Increased licking	Skin diseases, stress	It can be seen together with localized hair loss.

The Most Common Mistakes Made When Detecting Early Symptoms

• Waiting with the thought that "it will pass"

• Linking the symptom to age

• Focusing on a single symptom while ignoring other changes.

• Not regularly monitoring litter box and water intake.

It is important to remember that diseases detected early are both easier to manage and significantly reduce the risk of permanent damage .

Common Digestive System Diseases in Cats

Digestive system diseases are among the most common health problems in cats. These diseases, which manifest with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, are associated with feeding errors , sudden changes in food , parasites , infections , and chronic organ diseases .

The digestive system in cats consists of the mouth, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. Problems at any point in this system usually manifest first as changes in stool and vomiting .

Common Digestive System Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Key Symptoms	Early Warning Signs
Gastritis	Vomiting, stomach sensitivity	Restlessness after feeding
Gastroenteritis	Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness	Soft stools, decreased appetite.
Intestinal parasites	Diarrhea, weight loss	Abdominal bloating
Swallowing a foreign object	Vomiting, loss of appetite	Sudden vomiting after the game
Inflammatory bowel disease	Chronic diarrhea, weight loss	Intermittent vomiting
Pancreatitis	Weakness, abdominal pain	Mama refusal
Fatty liver disease	Loss of appetite, jaundice	Rapid weight loss

Things to Consider in Digestive System Diseases

• Repeated vomiting should not be considered normal.

• Diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours carries a risk of dehydration.

• Prolonged starvation in cats can predispose them to liver problems.

• Sudden changes in food can strain the digestive system.

In chronic digestive system diseases in particular, symptoms can fluctuate. This can create the illusion of recovery for those who own a digestive system; however, the underlying problem may still persist.

Common Respiratory Diseases in Cats

Respiratory illnesses are common, especially in kittens , immunocompromised cats , and cats living in multi-cat environments . These illnesses often begin with viral agents and can be aggravated by secondary bacterial infections.

Although upper respiratory tract infections often begin mildly, if not controlled early, they can develop into serious conditions affecting the eyes , nose , and lungs .

Common Respiratory Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Main Symptoms	Early Warning Signs
Upper respiratory tract infection	Sneezing, runny nose	watery eyes
Viral respiratory diseases	Fever, weakness	Anorexia
Bronchitis	Cough, shortness of breath	Wheezing
Pneumonia	Rapid breathing, weakness	Increased chest movement
Sinusitis	Facial sensitivity	Unilateral runny nose
Asthma-like symptoms	Difficulty breathing	Intermittent cough

Early Warning Signs in Respiratory Diseases

• Quiet, closed-mouth breathing

• Dried nasal discharge

• Redness and discharge in the eyes.

• Significant decrease in activity

Cats with respiratory problems are usually less active , avoid playing , and have a decreased appetite . Even if these symptoms seem mild, they can progress rapidly, especially in kittens and older cats.

Most Common Infectious Diseases in Cats

Infectious diseases are illnesses that can spread among cats through direct contact , shared food and water bowls , saliva and discharge , and environmental contamination . A significant proportion of these diseases are viral in origin and can be more severe, especially in cats with weakened immune systems.

Many infectious diseases begin with flu-like symptoms in the early stages . Therefore, the initial symptoms may be perceived as mild; however, in later stages, they can develop into serious conditions affecting multiple systems.

Common Infectious Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Affected System	Early Signs
Upper respiratory tract viral infections	Respiration, eyes	Sneezing, watery eyes
Viral immunosuppressive diseases	Immune system	Weakness, weight loss
Viral digestive system infections	Digestive system	Diarrhea, loss of appetite
Bacterial oral infections	Mouth and teeth	Bad breath, increased salivation
Eye infections	Eyelash	Redness, discharge
Systemic infections	Multiple organs	Fever, general malaise

Early Warning Signs in Infectious Diseases

• Fever sensation lasting longer than 24 hours

• Sudden onset of fatigue and withdrawal.

• Changes in the color of eye and nasal discharge.

• Weight loss accompanied by loss of appetite

The most dangerous aspect of infectious diseases is that they often progress silently in the early days , with symptoms worsening over time. Therefore, it is important to seek prompt evaluation if multiple mild symptoms appear together.

Parasitic Diseases and Their Prevalence in Cats

Parasitic diseases are common health problems in cats, caused by both internal and external parasites . These diseases can affect not only the digestive system but also the skin , blood , lungs , and overall immune status .

Parasites in particular:

• In cats that come into contact with the outside environment

• In kittens

• In cats that do not receive regular preventative treatment

It occurs more frequently.

Common Internal Parasites in Cats

Type of Parasite	The system it affects	Early Signs
Roundworms	Digestive	Abdominal bloating
Hookworms	Digestion, blood	Weakness, pale mucous membranes
Stripes	Digestive	Weight loss
Protozoa	Bowel	Prolonged diarrhea

Common External Parasites in Cats

Type of Parasite	Region affected	Early Signs
Piraeus	Skin	Intense itching
Tick	Skin, blood	Local swelling
Scabies mites	Skin	Crusting
Lice	Fur	Dullness

Important Considerations Regarding Parasitic Diseases

• Sudden onset of intense itching

• Changes in stool shape and color

• Localized hair loss

• Growth retardation (especially in kittens)

Parasitic diseases can often be largely prevented with preventive measures . However, if left undetected, they can weaken the immune system in the long term, paving the way for other diseases.

Common Urinary Tract and Kidney Diseases in Cats

Urinary tract and kidney diseases are among the most insidious and often late-diagnosed disease groups in cats. Because cats tend to hide their pain and discomfort, these diseases may only manifest as behavioral changes for a long time.

This group of diseases specifically includes:

• In middle-aged and older cats

• In cats that do not consume enough water

• In those fed only dry food

• In cats with stressful living conditions

It occurs more frequently.

Common Urinary Tract and Kidney Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Affected Area	Early Warning Signs
Lower urinary tract disease	Bladder, urethra	Staying in the litter box for a long time
Urinary tract infections	Bladder	Frequent urination
Urine crystals	Bladder	Cloudiness in urine
Bladder stones	Bladder	Discomfort while urinating
Chronic kidney disease	Kidney	Drinking excessive water
Acute kidney problems	Kidney	Sudden weakness

Critical Warnings in Urinary Tract and Kidney Diseases

• Urine in the litter box frequently but in small amounts.

• Making noises or restlessness while urinating

• Bloody urine

• Drinking more water than usual

• Urinating outside the urine container

These symptoms can be life-threatening, especially in male cats . Complete blockage of the urinary tract can quickly lead to serious complications.

Common Oral and Dental Diseases in Cats

Oral and dental diseases are significant problems in cats, directly affecting both their nutrition and overall health . These diseases often begin with bad breath and can progress to pain , loss of appetite , and behavioral changes .

Oral and dental problems in cats are not just local issues. Long-term oral infections can affect organs such as the heart , kidneys , and liver , as bacteria enter the bloodstream.

Common Oral and Dental Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Affected Area	Early Signs
Tartar formation	Tooth surface	Bad breath
Gum inflammation	gums	Redness
Oral infections	Oral mucosa	Increased salivation
Tooth resorptions	Tooth root	Unilateral chewing
Mouth sores	Tongue, palate	Mama refusal

Early Warning Signs of Oral and Dental Diseases

• Avoid eating hard food.

• Tilt your head to the side while eating.

• Increased saliva production

• Continuously licking around the mouth

• Avoiding play and socialization

Oral and dental diseases generally progress slowly , but when they do, they can cause irreversible damage. Therefore, early detection is of great importance for overall health.

Most Common Skin and Coat Diseases in Cats

Skin and coat diseases in cats are often noticeable at first glance , but are frequently a reflection of underlying systemic problems . Symptoms such as hair loss, itching, or skin redness may not only indicate a dermatological problem but also be indicative of parasitic , hormonal , allergic , or stress-related conditions.

Skin and coat health in cats is directly related to their immune status, nutritional quality, and living conditions.

Common Skin and Coat Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Affected Area	Early Warning Signs
Allergic dermatitis	Skin	Itching, redness
flea allergy	Skin, feathers	Itching in the neck and lower back area.
Fungal infections	Skin, feathers	Circular hair loss
Scabies mites	Skin	Crusting, intense itching
Bacterial skin infections	Skin	Wet, foul-smelling lesions
Psychogenic licking	Fur	Symmetrical hair loss

Signs to Watch Out For in Skin and Coat Diseases

• Don't lick the same area repeatedly.

• Loss of shine and dullness in the fur.

• Scaling , flaking, or redness on the skin

• Sudden and localized hair loss

• Excessive itching behavior

Skin problems, especially those caused by stress, can be accompanied by behavioral changes in addition to physical findings. Therefore, not only the skin but also the cat's overall daily routine should be evaluated.

Hormonal and Metabolic Diseases in Cats

Hormonal and metabolic diseases in cats are often slow and insidious health problems that are difficult to detect in the early stages. These diseases can affect the body's energy balance, weight control, and organ function, leading to serious long-term consequences.

This group of diseases mostly includes:

• In middle-aged to older cats

• In people who lead sedentary lives

• In cats with excessive weight problems

It occurs more frequently.

Common Hormonal and Metabolic Diseases in Cats

Disease Name	Affected System	Early Warning Signs
Diabetes	Metabolism	Drinking excessive water
Thyroid problems	Endocrine system	Sudden weight loss
Obesity	Metabolism	Inactivity
Liver metabolism disorders	Liver	Anorexia
Electrolyte imbalances	Systemic	Weakness

Why is early diagnosis important in hormonal and metabolic diseases?

• Long-term lack of control can lead to organ damage.

• Weight changes can initiate processes that are difficult to reverse.

• In cases detected early , quality of life is preserved.

• The risk of developing secondary diseases decreases.

These diseases often manifest not with a single symptom , but through the accumulation of small changes over time. Therefore, regular observation and routine check-ups are of great importance.

Common Neurological and Behavioral Diseases in Cats

Neurological and behavioral disorders in cats are often misinterpreted or diagnosed late . These types of illnesses directly affect not only the nervous system but also the cat's daily behavior , social interactions , and quality of life .

Neurological problems in cats can result from trauma , infections , metabolic disorders , and age-related changes . Behavioral problems, on the other hand, can sometimes be the first outward manifestation of a physical illness.

Common Neurological and Behavioral Problems in Cats

Condition / Illness	Affected Area	Early Warning Signs
Seizure disorders	Brain	Sudden contractions
Loss of balance	Nervous system	Stumbling while walking
Excessive aggression	Behaviour	Sudden aggression
Depressive behaviors	Behaviour	Introversion
Compulsive licking	Behaviour	The same movement repeatedly.
Head printing	Neurological	Turning towards the wall

Neurological and Behavioral Warning Signs

• Sudden personality changes

• Aggression or fear that is not normally present.

• Constant hiding behavior

• Loss of balance and head tilting

• Sudden loss of consciousness or freezing

Behavioral changes should not always be considered "psychological." Many neurological diseases initially manifest as behavioral disorders .

Common Diseases in Cats by Age (Kitten, Adult, Senior)

The frequency and type of diseases in cats vary significantly with age . Therefore, the cat's life stage must be taken into account when evaluating symptoms.

Common Diseases in Kittens

Type of Disease	Reason for Risk	Early Signs
Infectious diseases	Immune weakness	Weakness
Parasitic diseases	External contact	Diarrhea
Respiratory problems	Delicate structure	Sneeze
Nutritional disorders	Inadequate diet	Developmental delay

Common Diseases in Adult Cats

Type of Disease	Risk Factor	Early Signs
Digestive system problems	Nutritional errors	Vomiting
Skin diseases	Stress	Itching
Oral and dental diseases	Lack of care	Bad breath

Common Diseases in Older Cats

Type of Disease	Relationship with Age	Early Signs
Kidney diseases	Organ aging	Drinking excessive water
Hormonal diseases	Metabolic change	Weight loss
Neurological problems	Nervous system	Loss of balance

In older cats, symptoms often develop slowly and can be misinterpreted as "signs of old age." However, these symptoms are often indicative of manageable health problems.

Factors that Increase the Risk of Disease in Cats

Many diseases in cats are not caused by a single factor, but rather by a combination of multiple risk factors . While some of these factors are directly modifiable, others can only be controlled with proper management .

Knowing the factors that increase the risk of disease allows for more accurate interpretation of early warning signs and forms the basis of preventive approaches.

Major Factors That Increase the Risk of Disease in Cats

Risk Factor	Its effect	Early Warning Signs
Malnutrition	Immune weakness	Decrease in feather quality
Irregular water consumption	Kidney problems	Concentrated urine
stressful living conditions	Behavior and immunity	Hiding
Inactivity	Metabolic diseases	Weight gain
Excess weight	Diabetes and joint problems	Don't get tired easily.
Lack of regular maintenance	Skin and oral diseases	Bad breath
Multiple cat environments	Risk of infection	Frequent illnesses
Contact with the external environment	Parasitic diseases	Itching

Key Approaches to Reducing Risk Factors

• Dietary regimens should be adjusted according to age and lifestyle.

• Monitoring daily water consumption.

• Minimizing stress factors as much as possible

• Encouraging play and physical activity.

• Regular grooming, oral care, and general hygiene.

When risk factors are controlled, the incidence of many diseases decreases significantly.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and the Risks of Delay in Cats

Early diagnosis is the most critical factor in managing diseases in cats before they progress . Because cats tend to hide their symptoms, diseases may often have reached an advanced stage by the time they are noticed.

A health problem detected early:

• It can be brought under control in a shorter time.

• It progresses with fewer complications.

• It maintains quality of life for a long time.

Key Differences Between Early and Late Diagnosis

Criterion	Early Diagnosis	Late Diagnosis
Disease stage	Front end	Advanced stage
Intervention time	Short	LONG
Risk of complications	Low	High
Quality of life	Protected	It decreases
Long-term impact	Manageable	Risk of permanent damage.

Risks of Late Diagnosis

• Chronic organ damage

• Continuous medication requirement

• Behavioral disorders becoming permanent

• Prolonged treatment process

The most important factor for early diagnosis is taking small changes seriously . When litter box habits, water intake, appetite, and behavior are observed regularly, diseases can be detected before they become apparent.

Ways to Prevent Common Diseases in Cats

A significant proportion of diseases seen in cats can be largely prevented or managed to a milder course with the right living conditions and regular monitoring . Prevention encompasses steps taken not only after a disease has appeared, but also before the disease even develops .

Preventive approaches can be evaluated under three main headings: nutrition , living environment , and regular monitoring .

Basic Approaches to Disease Prevention in Cats

Protective Measures	Areas it affects	Benefits it provides
Balanced diet	Metabolism, immunity	Protecting organ health
Sufficient water consumption	Kidney, urinary tract	Reduced risk of urinary tract infection.
Reducing stress	Behavior, immunity	Behavioral and physical balance
Hygienic living space	Risk of infection	Decrease in infectious diseases
Regular maintenance	Skin, oral health	Early problem detection
Parasite control	General health	Multiple system protection

Points to Consider in Daily Life

• The litter box should be checked at least once a day.

• Water and food bowls should be cleaned regularly.

• Coat structure and skin surface should be observed weekly.

• Play and movement routines should be maintained.

• Sudden environmental changes should be minimized as much as possible.

Preventive approaches require consistency. Intermittent and irregular applications make the risk of disease uncertain rather than reducing it.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for Your Cat?

In cats, some symptoms may be mild and temporary; however, some are warning signs that should be evaluated without delay . In particular, the appearance of multiple symptoms simultaneously may indicate a serious underlying health problem.

Situations Requiring Immediate Assessment

Symptom/Condition	Potential Risk	Why is it important?
Loss of appetite lasting longer than 24 hours	Metabolic problems	Risk of rapid weight loss
Inability to urinate	Urinary obstruction	It poses a life-threatening risk.
Persistent vomiting	Digestive or systemic problems	Fluid loss and imbalance
Sudden change in behavior	Neurological problems	It can move silently.
Severe weakness	Systemic diseases	It can affect organ functions.
Rapid or difficult breathing	Respiratory problems	Requires urgent assessment.

When is asking "Should we wait?" risky?

• If the symptoms worsen

• If the symptom recurs

• If multiple systems are affected

• If the cat's daily routine is significantly disrupted

Early assessment in cats directly impacts not only the treatment process but also their quality of life . Therefore, not delaying in suspicious cases is the safest approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common diseases in cats?

The most common diseases in cats are digestive system problems, respiratory infections, parasitic diseases, urinary tract problems, oral and dental diseases, and skin and coat diseases. Most of these diseases show mild symptoms in the early stages and can become chronic if not detected in time.

How do cats show when they are sick?

Cats tend to hide signs of illness. Loss of appetite, lethargy, a desire to hide, changes in toilet habits, dull fur, and behavioral changes can be the first signs of illness.

Why are early warning signs important in cats?

Early warning signs allow the disease to be detected before it progresses. This results in a shorter treatment process, a lower risk of complications, and a higher quality of life.

Is loss of appetite always a sign of illness in cats?

Short-term loss of appetite can be caused by stress or environmental changes. However, loss of appetite lasting longer than 24 hours, especially if accompanied by weight loss, should be taken seriously.

When is vomiting dangerous in cats?

Occasional hairball vomiting can be considered normal. However, frequent, severe vomiting, vomiting that involves blood, or vomiting accompanied by weakness may be a sign of a serious health problem.

What causes diarrhea in cats?

Diarrhea can be caused by parasites, infections, dietary changes, stress, and digestive system disorders. Prolonged diarrhea is important because it can lead to fluid loss.

How can respiratory diseases be diagnosed in cats?

Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, fatigue, and difficulty breathing are among the early signs of respiratory illnesses.

What symptoms do parasitic diseases show in cats?

Itching, hair loss, diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal bloating, and weakness are common symptoms of parasitic diseases.

Can house cats also get parasites?

Yes. Even if house cats don't have direct contact with the outside environment, they can still be exposed to parasites through shoes, clothing, or the home environment.

How can urinary tract diseases be detected in cats?

Frequent urination, prolonged time spent in the litter box, restlessness during urination, bloody urine, and urinating outside the litter box are important warning signs.

Do kidney diseases in cats give early warning signs?

Kidney diseases often progress insidiously. Excessive thirst, weight loss, and loss of appetite may be observed in the early stages.

What causes bad breath in cats?

Bad breath is often caused by tartar, gum inflammation, and oral infections. If left untreated for a long time, it can lead to systemic problems.

Do dental problems affect behavior in cats?

Yes. Cats with mouth pain can become aggressive, avoid eating, and withdraw from social behaviors.

Is shedding always normal in cats?

Seasonal hair loss is normal. However, localized, excessive hair loss, or hair loss accompanied by itching may be a sign of illness.

Can stress cause illness in cats?

Stress weakens the immune system, paving the way for many diseases. Behavioral and physical symptoms may occur together.

What might behavioral changes in cats indicate?

Behavioral changes can be the first sign of pain, neurological problems, hormonal imbalances, or chronic illnesses.

Do disease symptoms progress faster in kittens?

Yes. Because kittens' immune systems are not fully developed, illnesses can progress more quickly and require more careful monitoring.

How do disease symptoms differ in older cats?

In older cats, symptoms may appear more slowly and subtly. This is often mistaken for the typical symptom of old age.

Can diseases in cats be prevented?

Many diseases can be largely prevented or managed mildly with proper nutrition, stress management, hygiene, and regular check-ups.

Does nutrition affect the risk of disease in cats?

Yes. An unbalanced diet can lead to digestive, metabolic, and immune problems.

Why is water consumption so important for cats?

Adequate water intake is critical for kidney and urinary tract health. Cats that drink insufficient water are more prone to urinary tract diseases.

Can diseases in cats be contagious?

Some infectious diseases can spread easily, especially in multi-cat environments. Hygiene and isolation are important in this regard.

When should cats be evaluated without delay?

Inability to urinate, severe weakness, rapid breathing, prolonged loss of appetite, and sudden behavioral changes should be evaluated without delay.

Do diseases in cats ever completely heal?

While some diseases are completely curable, others require lifelong management. Diseases detected early are easier to control.

Why is regular observation important for cats?

Noticing small, daily changes allows for the early detection of diseases and prevents serious consequences.

Sources

• Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

• The International Cat Association (TICA)

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

• Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Open on Map: https://share.google/XPP6L1V6c1EnGP3Oc