Having a healthy cat is every pet owner’s wish. Feline health and diet are interrelated.
By ensuring your cat gets the best nutrition suited to an obligate carnivore will minimise health afflictions. Doing so will ensure it gets what it needs for optimal growth and energy, whilst supporting a strong immune system.
Like humans, individual cats differ in their tolerances of different foods. For example, many cats will be fine with a diet that includes fish, whilst some cats have an intolerance to fish and show signs of allergies or stomach upsets when they eat it.
We often receive questions from viewers about health challenges they are having with their pets. Although we are able to provide recommendations on cat food, we do strongly suggest consulting with your veterinarian when your cat is ill for the best advice and treatment.
Our well researched articles on feline health and diet will inform you of the underlying cause of cat afflictions and how pet owners can address these with diet and appropriate care.
Symptoms of a Sick Cat
When a cat becomes ill, early intervention and treatment will help it recover quickly from its ailment. Here are the main signs of a sick cat to watch for:
- Changes of appearance. Look for changes in the condition of its coat, a dry nose, foggy eyes, or when if you cat just doesn’t look quite right.
- Increased meowing.
- Wanting to be left alone.
- Excessive thirst.
- Refusing to eat.
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea.
- Discharge from its nose, sneezing or a very warm nose (suggesting fever).
- Noticeable weight gain or loss
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath.
- Sudden changes in eating & drinking habits.
- Noticeable weight loss or gain.
- Reaction to prodding suggesting pain.
Common Health Problems in Cats
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Urinary tract infections
- Parasites (fleas, tapeworms)
- Eye infections
- Allergies
- Weight problems
- Diabetes
Signs of a Healthy Cat
- Eyes- bright and clear with no discharge.
- Ears- clean and free of discharge, smell or redness.
- Mouth- smells fresh.
- Coat- shiny and clean.
- Weight- Active cats are rarely overweight.
- Toileting- firm stools and plenty of urination.
Articles that Address Feline Health and Diet
Kitten Vomiting and Diarrhea
We all strive for a healthy and active cat. However, coming home to see your furry feline looking quiet and lethargic may indicate a vomiting and diarrhea problem. So how do you rectify your kitten vomiting and diarrhea problem? Read article HERE.
Fish Allergies in Cats
Just like humans, the immune system of cats defends itself against anything it recognises as a threat. Food ingredients such as beef, eggs, fish and milk are well-known allergens to cats. However, fish allergy in cats is quite prevalent compared to some food ingredients. Read article HERE.
What Causes Hairballs in Cats?
Cats are incredibly skilled at keeping themselves clean and barely require bathing. While this innate behavior in felines helps their overall hygiene, it may pose a health problem for our pets. In this article we look at what causes hairballs in cats?
What Causes Diabetes in Cats? (Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention)
Diabetes Miletus in cats is a relatively widespread endocrine condition that is more common in older felines and cats that are overweight. Diabetes is estimated to affect between 0.2 and 1% of cats during their lifetime. So, what causes cats to become diabetic? This article addresses the causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cat diabetes.
Feline Interstitial Cystitis
Feline interstitial cystitis (FIC) is one of most perplexing of the cat illnesses to treat. The problem partly lies in the fact that the symptoms of this sickness can be very unclear and vague, that pinpointing an accurate diagnosis is difficult. The typical victims of FIC are young toms, although it can afflict female cats as well. Cats who are afflicted with this illness generally outgrow it eventually. Read article HERE.
What Causes Urinary Blockage in Cats?
Urinary blockage in cats can constitute a severe emergency, especially if the symptoms have gone unnoticed. The feline condition might see you paying unscheduled visits to the vet with your cat. So, what causes urinary blockage in cats and what can you do about it?
Can Cats Eat Chocolate?
Its widely understood that chocolates are toxic to dogs. But what about cats? Can cats eat chocolate?
Sharing a chocolate bar with your cat is not such a good idea as it is harmful to cats. Chocolates pose a severe health risk to felines and may become life-threatening if eaten excessively. In this article we delve into the harm chocolate can do to cats.
Can Cats Eat Grain?
There seems to be a lot of discussion around whether cats should eat grains or not. Many commercial cat foods contain grain. Some people are supportive, whilst there exists another set of feline lovers who oppose the idea of giving grains to cats.
Many people believe that feeding grains to cats will harm them in the long run. So, what is the correct stance? Can cats eat grains? Read ‘Can Cats Eat Grain?’ article HERE.
Can Cats Drink Cow’s Milk?
Images of cats lapping a bowl of milk have built the impression that cow’s milk is a perfect delight for every cat. So, can cats drink cow’s milk?
While most cats crave a bit of milk, the supposed love between cats and cow’s milk is exaggerated and there are many misconceptions.
In this article we dispel the myths and educate on what milk is acceptable for your kitten or cat.
Best Cat Food for UTI Health
In this article we discuss Uti matters in cats and review the best foods for urinary health. The health of our pets is essential! With appropriate care, a cat can live long lives without having health challenges; however, there are times when they face challenges that go beyond our reach. One such health issue is the urinary tract infection which puts cats in considerable discomfort. Read ‘Best Cat Foods for UTI Health’ article/review HERE.
Can Cats Eat Canned Tuna?
Cats are among the most common pets worldwide, and their popularity is well deserved. Not only are they adorable, but they also have a reputation for being independent and low-maintenance. Many cat owners have questioned: Can cats eat canned tuna?
Although the short answer is ‘yes‘, we advise that canned tuna is given in moderation. This article explains pros and pitfalls of canned tuna.
5 Best Purina Cat Foods for Urinary Tract Health
Nestle Purina Pet care is a world-recognized pet food company that manufactures many of the best foods for cats with urinary tract issues. This article independently reviews the top picks for Urinary tract health cat foods. Click to read our review.
What to Feed Cats (Cat Feeding Advice Guide)
As any cat owner knows, cats can be fussy eaters. Moreover, each feline has unique dietary requirements based on age, health, and activity level. Therefore, knowing what to feed cats and acquiring the best cat feeding advice can be challenging. Read the full article HERE.
Can Cats Eat Raw Meat?
Can cats eat raw meat? Absolutely. Cats are obligate carnivores. So it is understandable when cat owners stick to a raw diet for their cats. However, many experts believe that placing your pet on a solely raw diet causes a significant health risk for you and your cat. Read on to understand the benefits and flaws of raw meat for cats.
Can Cats Eat Human Food?
The urge to toss a morsel of your favorite snack to your pets can be overwhelming. Your cat’s affection may motivate you to share that sandwich with your feline friend. But can cats eat human food? In this article we look at what is safe for cats to eat and what foods are toxic.
Can Cats Eat Dog Food?
It is one of those common questions veterinarians get from cat owners. Although the straightforward answer to this query is yes, there is more you need to know.
Cats are different from dogs in terms of dietary needs. So, while a taste of dog food will not be harmful to your cat, it doesn’t balance their dietary requirements.
Home Cooked Diet For Cats (Feline Feast or Folly)
Many people question why cat owners choose to buy commercial foods for their feline rather than opting to a home cooked diet for cats, offering natural fresh meats.
The interest in homemade food for cats is growing. It is important to realize, however, that homemade pet food does not always mean healthy.
12 Worst Cat Food Ingredients (You Must Know)
Knowing what food is best for your cat can be complexing. There many different cat foods available on the market advertised as being healthy, well-balanced cat foods with the best ingredients. But are they? In this post we give our view on what we consider to be the worst cat food ingredients.