Cats, no matter the breed tends to have health issues, some hereditary and other that are environmental and easily prevented. Some typical health problems are worms, hairballs, urinary tract infection, and also feline leukemia.
Worms:
Tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms are common infections that cats can get. If your cat has difficulty gaining weight, or problems with fleas and you notice white specks in the stool, than you should have a worm test at your vets because your cat probably has worms. Untreated worms can be fatal to your cat.
Hairballs:
This is the most common health problem cats face. The reason is that all cats groom themselves and end up swallowing loose hair as they groom. The ball of hair becomes dislodged in the digestive tract instead of being passed in the cat's stool. The cat then coughs and hacks, trying to cough up the hairball. Usually the cat can successfully dislodge the hairball in this manner without any difficulty. Hairball remedies are popular and you can also prevent hairball blockage by brushing your cat 2 to 3 times a week to get rid of the loose hair. There is also commercial cat food designed to control hairballs too.
It is rare; put a hairball can pass through the cat's intestine and becoming a blockage, which is a serious problem. This blockage can be life threatening if not treated. Symptoms of blockage are: constipation, not eating properly, and a dull coat. Take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice these symptoms.
Urinary Tract Infection:
Urinary tract infections are common in male cats that are not neutered. Symptom that is a clue to this problem is that the cat stops using the litter box and if he does the urine is very strong. A urinary tract infection can easily be treated with medication, so take your cat to the vet if you notice these symptoms. A female cat can also get a urinary tract infection.
Feline Leukemia:
Feline leukemia is the leading cause of death for cats. There are vaccines to help prevent this disease. The virus is highly contagious that causes feline leukemia so cats that are known to have it should not be exposed to any other cats. You should never introduce a stray or new cat to other cats in your household without first having a leukemia blood test on the new cat to rule out feline leukemia.
Bad Breath:
Cats with bad breath have it because of bacteria just like when humans have bad breath. Usually the bacteria is linked to a buildup of tartar around the cat's teeth. Tartar is the yellowish stuff that is seen on a cat's teeth. You can clean the tartar off your cat's teeth by using toothbrush and pet toothpaste. You will need to brush the teeth on a regular basis in order to keep the tartar off the cat's teeth. To prevent tartar use cat treats that are designed to help prevent tartar.
Sometimes (rarely) liver or kidney disease can be causing bad breath in your cat so if brushing does not cure the bad breath see your vet immediately. Your vet can diagnose the cause of the bad breath. Your vet can also tell you how to treat the bad breath.
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Jason Burton is an expert on cat care and has had a lifelong love for all animals. To learn more about proper cat care and tips on how to best care for your cat visit [http://www.bestcatbook.com/].
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