The importance of Early detection in pet health: 5 key signs to watch for in cats

Cats are masters of subtlety when it comes to their health. They often hide signs of discomfort or illness, making it essential to stay vigilant for small changes in behaviour or appearance. Early detection of health concerns not only ensures your cat's well-being but can also prevent costly treatments in the future. Here are five key areas to monitor and how Vetsy can help.

1. Behavioural Changes

Changes in your cat’s temperament or routine can be one of the first signs of an underlying issue.

• Signs to Watch For: Lethargy, increased vocalisation, hiding away, or sleeping more than usual.
• Why It Matters: Cats instinctively mask signs of illness, often retreating to hide discomfort or pain. Ignoring these behavioural shifts may allow conditions like arthritis, infections, or chronic illnesses to progress unnoticed.

How Vetsy Can Help:

With our video consultations, we can visually assess your cat in the comfort of their home. Our vets are trained to detect subtle signs of pain or discomfort and recommend the next steps, whether it’s home management or further tests.

Learn more about understanding your cat’s behaviour from the RSPCA.

2. Mobility Issues

Cats, especially senior ones, can develop joint problems that impact their mobility. Early detection of conditions like osteoarthritis is critical in order to provide appropriate treatment options, before the condition becomes advanced.

• Signs to Watch For: Reduced grooming, stiffness, difficulty jumping, or sleeping more.
• Why It Matters: Mobility issues are often mistaken for natural ageing. Without intervention, they can progress to advanced osteoarthritis, significantly affecting your cat’s quality of life.

How Vetsy Can Help:

Our vets perform visual assessments, including gait analysis and posture reviews, during video consultations. We provide tailored advice on pain relief, environmental modifications, and long-term support like joint supplements or specialised diets.

Learn more about joint pain in cats.

3. Changes in Drinking Habits

Increased thirst (polydipsia) is often a subtle sign of serious underlying conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or certain tumours.

• Signs to Watch For: Refilling the water bowl more frequently, increased urination, or urinary accidents. We often advise measuring the total water intake in a 24 hour period to determine if appropriate.
• Why It Matters: Monitoring your cat’s water intake is crucial, as conditions like kidney failure or diabetes require early intervention to avoid complications.

How Vetsy Can Help:

Our vets can help you track water intake and evaluate your cat’s symptoms through a detailed video consultation. From there, we’ll recommend appropriate next steps, whether it’s advanced testing or prescriptions to address the underlying issue.

4. Appetite Changes

Fluctuations in appetite, whether your cat is eating more or less than usual, can signal secondary health concerns.

• Signs to Watch For: Always hungry, vocalising for more food, weight loss, or concurrent symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea. No one knows your cat better than you - if something seems off, it likely is.
• Why It Matters: Changes in appetite can be linked to thyroid disease, kidney issues, or gastrointestinal conditions. Catching these early can prevent more severe complications.

How Vetsy Can Help:

Our consultations allow you to discuss your cat’s symptoms and receive tailored advice. Whether it’s appetite stimulants, dietary recommendations, or medications, we’ll guide you through options to improve your cat’s health.

Learn about potential causes of appetite changes.

5. Unkempt Coat

Cats take pride in their grooming routines, so a neglected coat can be an early indicator of health problems. As our pets age, we find they appreciate a little extra support in grooming, but if their coat is not quite as glossy as it once was, we would suggest a vet review.

• Signs to Watch For: Greasy or matted fur, dandruff, or frequent hairballs.
• Why It Matters: A poor coat condition could signal mobility issues, dental problems, or underlying illnesses like thyroid or kidney disease. Without intervention, these issues can worsen and lead to discomfort.

How Vetsy Can Help:

During a video consultation, our vets will assess your cat’s coat and grooming habits to determine if underlying health issues are at play. From there, we can recommend supplements, medications, or additional tests to address the root cause.

Why Early Detection Matters for Cats

Your cat’s health depends on you noticing the small things. Early detection helps ensure they stay comfortable, happy, and healthy while avoiding unnecessary pain or advanced treatments later.

With Vetsy, you can access professional veterinary advice from the comfort of your home. Our expert vets are here to guide you through identifying and managing health concerns, starting with a £39 video consultation. Book your appointment today!

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