Just like any other mammal, there are hundreds of different diseases that are common to each species. The focus of this article will be a few common feline diseases. However, if you have any specific health concerns related to your cat, contact your veterinary clinic immediately. Also, please remember that many of these feline diseases can be vaccinated; this means you must vaccine your feline before contraction of the disease. Otherwise, your cat's immune system will not have had the correct preparations in order to fight a particular disease.
1. Feline Infectious Peritonitis
This disease has the potential to be fatal once it is contracted. Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is generally found in young adult cats, though it may be discovered in at any age. There are two common types of FIP: dry FIP and wet (effusive) FIP. Wet FIP tends to be more common, however both forms do exist. Dry FIP is an infection in which the cat has a high fever and demonstrates symptoms such as depression, anemia, weight loss, and fever. Other diseases may develop from this form of FIP, such as kidney, liver, and pancreatic diseases. Wet FIP occurs when fluid is dispersed throughout the body and presses on the cat's lungs causing severe respiratory discomfort. Other symptoms of wet FIP may include jaundice, anemia, enlargements of lymph nodes and neurological and ocular problems.
2. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
This virus occurs when a cat's immune system has become impaired and ineffective. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) enters the body generally through open sores or wounds that have been cause by other cats who have the disease. Once FIV is contracted, the lifespan of the feline is roughly around 2 years. Though the cat's death is not directly a result of FIV, the infections or viruses the cat contracts due to FIV can be fatal. It is imperative that a cat with FIV be kept indoors and away from other animals, as this may increase the feline's lifespan. It is also important that cats with FIV see their vet regularly and often so they can receive treatment for infections.
3. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a common, yet serious disease in cats. You may formerly know FLUTD as Feline Urologic Syndrome (FUS). FLUTD occurs when a part of the urinary tract becomes blocked in some way. Some things that may cause this blockage include trauma, crystals in the urine, urinary tract tumors, viral infections, and bladder stones. Though these are some of the common causes, there may be cases where the cause is unidentifiable. Sometimes the diet of the cat may increase the risk of contracting FLUTD; dehydration, low quality pet food, or foods that contain high levels of magnesium may increase a cat's risk. This disease occurs in cats of any age or sex. However, FLUTD in male cats presents itself in a more severe form simply because of the male cat anatomy. This disease is also painful and life-threatening. If you notice anything abnormal in your cat's urine, or in the way it urinates, contact your vet immediately. Your vet will be able to diagnose your cat's problem, and will be able to work out a solution (usually antibiotics or surgery to remove the blockage) for your cat, depending on the severity and cause of the disease in your cat.
Jen Fortney writes articles for Dog-Fence.org a site featuring information on dog fences and the duties of responsible pet owners. Keep your dog safe with an in-ground dog fence!
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