How to Tell When a Cat Is Sick
Cats have a well-earned reputation for being mysterious. That extends to their health, too. Many cats instinctively hide discomfort or illness. But if you know what to look for, you can catch subtle changes early and help your feline friend feel better faster. The team at Lincoln Hills Veterinary Hospital in Lincoln, CA, shares some of the most common signs your cat may be feeling under the weather.
Changes in Appetite
A cat who suddenly starts eating less, or stops eating altogether, should raise a red flag. Not eating can be a sign of nausea, dental pain, fever, or more serious conditions such as kidney disease or gastrointestinal issues.
On the other hand, an increase in appetite may signal problems like hyperthyroidism or diabetes. Any persistent change in your cat’s eating habits is worth a call to your vet, especially if it’s paired with vomiting or weight loss.
Litterbox Issues
Your cat’s litterbox habits can reveal a lot about their health. If your cat is urinating or defecating outside the box, struggling to go, or visiting the box more frequently, it could point to issues such as urinary tract infections, constipation, or arthritis.
Male cats who are straining but unable to urinate may have a blockage—this is a true medical emergency. Don’t wait it out. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice your cat trying to pass urine but failing.
It’s also possible for cats to avoid the litterbox for behavioral reasons, such as stress or territorial tension in multi-cat homes. However, it’s always best to rule out medical causes first.
Meowing More—or Less
Cats meow for many reasons, but a sudden change in how often or how loudly your cat meows can be a clue that something’s wrong. Increased meowing can signal hunger, discomfort, or even cognitive decline in older cats.
Conversely, if your typically chatty cat suddenly goes quiet, that may indicate pain, fatigue, or illness. Pay attention to changes in vocal tone or pattern—they’re often your cat’s way of communicating distress.
Subtle Behavioral Changes
Because cats are so skilled at masking illness, even small behavioral changes can be telling. Watch for:
- Hiding more than usual or avoiding interaction
- Sleeping much more—or much less—than normal
- Acting cranky when touched or picked up
- Ignoring grooming or overgrooming a particular area
These shifts can signal discomfort, pain, or stress. For instance, cats with arthritis may hide more to rest quietly, while cats with itchy skin or urinary pain may lick one area excessively.
Physical Signs of Illness
While behavior often tells the first part of the story, physical changes help fill in the rest. Keep an eye out for:
- Bad breath: Often a sign of dental disease or systemic illness
- Vomiting or diarrhea: May indicate dietary issues, infections, or chronic disease
- Sneezing or discharge: Could point to upper respiratory infections
- Coat changes: Dullness, matting, or bald patches suggest pain or poor grooming habits
If your cat seems lethargic, breathes with effort, or experiences sudden weight loss, seek veterinary attention promptly. These are signs your cat needs medical care as soon as possible.
Learn tips for keeping your feline friend healthy in this related blog post.
When in Doubt, Trust Your Instincts
You know your cat better than anyone. If you sense something’s off—whether it’s a skipped meal, litterbox mishaps, or extra meowing—it’s always safer to schedule a checkup. Even minor symptoms can point to conditions that benefit from early treatment.
At Lincoln Hills Veterinary Hospital, our veterinarians and staff provide advanced medical care delivered with warmth and understanding. We’ll help identify what’s causing your cat’s symptoms and create a treatment plan to get them back to comfort.
To schedule a wellness visit or other service, call us at (916) 436-0006 today. We also accept urgent care walk-ins during our regular business hours.