Cats are complex creatures; much like humans, there is plenty going on inside their minds and bodies. Unlike humans though, they aren’t able to tell us about any problems they have. Therefore, it can sometimes be difficult sussing out what they are thinking and feeling. Nevertheless, if you know what to look out for, there is plenty you can do to care for your cat and keep them purring.
Here we will look at the signs of a healthy cat and some things to look out for if your pet is having trouble.
Body
Cats naturally slow down with age and become less adventurous when it comes to climbing and hunting, but a younger, healthy cat will be spritely and mobile. While many cats are happy dozing on a window sill most of the day, keep an eye out that your furry friend is happy to have a run around from time to time without any discomfort.
Ears
One specific place to keep an eye on is your cat’s ears. Ear problems can be particularly uncomfortable for our feline friends and we don’t want any hearing loss. The ears should be clean with no visible signs of redness or discharge.
Eyes
To keep their excellent vision in check, we want to make sure our cat’s eyes have no discharge. Their peepers should also appear clear and bright.
Nose
Ensure your cat’s nose is clean and free from a buildup of mucus. The temperature of the nose can change with the environment, but if you notice any extremes, it is worth contacting your vet.
Appetite
While some cats are hungrier than others, a good appetite is generally a sign of good health in a cat. If you notice your cat suddenly eating more or less than usual, it may be worth taking a trip to the vet. Hyperthyroidism is fairly common in older cats and can cause a surge in appetite, while a loss of appetite could be related to stress or another illness.
Overall attitude
Since they cannot talk to us, cats have their own funny little ways of telling us when they are upset about something. These acts are usually quite noticeable, for example, sitting in an unusual spot behind the sofa or refusing to come inside. If you notice a change in your cat’s behaviour, they may be suffering from anxiety. There are all sorts of things that can cause pet stress, such as another cat imposing themselves on the neighbourhood, or physical pain that has gone untreated.
Try your best to work out what is troubling your cat by keeping an eye on its behaviour, though sometimes there may not be one particular issue. It is natural for some cats to suffer from anxiety. Thankfully, there are options out there to help with calming our little friends.
Our range of products at Pet Remedy is proven to help reduce anxiety in pets. Our products start to help straight away and help calm your cat without sedation. By using natural oils to reduce stress, Pet Remedy products help your cat feel more settled and engaged. Never have a sad kitty again!
