The day you find out that your cat is sick is beyond sad. But it’s also confusing, especially for new pet parents, who have no idea how to deal with their sick cat.
Do you care for them like you would care for a human or is there a list of cat-specific things that pet parents should be aware of?
As it turns out, it’s actually not all that different.
First ResponseIf you’ve noticed something awry with regard to your cat’s health, such as diarrhea or cat flu (which is similar to a bad cold), take them to a vet immediately.
If it’s late at night or if you’re too far out, call one. Any cat that’s been sick for 24 hours needs professional medical attention. Common warning signs include eating, changed sleeping habits, irritability, and lethargy.
Making Them EatTrying to get your sick cat to eat is tough. If they’re refusing food for longer than is healthy, you need to visit a vet. More than 24 hours is usually a cause for concern. We suggest you warm their food up and give them small quantities.
If the cat is having problems swallowing food, go with liquid food. Try feeding them by hand and bit and bit. If you stroke them while you’re feeding them, they’ll be more inclined to eat.
Chronic IllnessesIf your cat has been sick for some time, we hope you’ve been following the vet’s instructions to a T. Keep a close eye on your cat and notice their behaviour. Check if they’re getting better or worse. They should be sleeping in a warm place that’s quiet, preferably with a thick mat underneath. If you’re regulating the temperature with a heating pack, it should be padded.
Checking on them twice should be enough. See if they’re moving around or if they’ve stopped moving. See if they’re soiling themselves, and if they are, give them a gentle bath. If you’re using a dryer to dry them, take care not to burn their fur. We suggest that you hold the dryer at a distance and put it on a low setting.
Worsening ConditionsIf your cat is old, they might have a chronic condition and require nursing at home. You’ll need to monitor them closely and frequently. One warning sign of deteriorating health is if your cat hasn’t moved at all in 24 hours. If that’s the case, you might be looking at something far more serious.
If you feel that their conditions are worsening, you might want to weigh your options. You might want to consider if this is the right time to say goodbye to your old friend. A vet will give you the right guidance.
Further AssistanceKeep your cat indoors and preferably in a litter tray. Don’t let them out of sight or outside the house because they might go astray. Use a small recording camera attached to their collar if you aren’t around.
Never self-medicate cats, and never give them medicine that’s made for humans like you. They could be toxic for cats and cause a reaction. The best course of action is to consult a vet nearby.
If you’re looking for one in London, Ontario, schedule an appointment with us online. You can find out more about the services offered at Staples
Animal Hospital London Ontario
here or get in touch with us here.