Cats are naturally secretive, making it hard to tell when they are unwell. They often hide pain or discomfort, so signs of illness can be easily missed.
Dr Aimee Warner, resident vet at pet insurance company Waggel, says there are signs that your cat is ill that owners must keep an eye out for. She said: “Cats rarely make it obvious when something is wrong. They may continue eating, sleeping and moving around the house while showing small changes that are easy to overlook. The most useful thing an owner can do is learn what is normal for their cat. A behaviour that has always been there may be harmless, but a sudden or persistent change deserves attention.”
Six signs to watch for
Meowing more: Some cats are naturally talkative, but if your cat suddenly becomes much noisier, they may be in discomfort. If they have lost weight and are being louder, it can be a sign something is wrong.
Changes in thirst: Changes in thirst or litter tray usage can be a sign of conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disease and diabetes. Monitor how often you refill their water bowl and keep an eye on their urine output. Increased thirst should be investigated by a vet, especially if combined with weight loss, appetite changes or unusual tiredness.
Straining to use the litter tray: If your cat is repeatedly using the tray, meowing or 'crying' while trying to pee, or has blood-tinged urine, it's worth a trip to the vet. These signs can result from stress, cystitis, bladder stones and urinary infections. If your cat is straining but unable to urinate, they need urgent veterinary care, as this could be a urinary blockage, which is an emergency and more common in male cats.
Drooling: A sudden increase in drool or a sudden start when your cat never used to can be a sign of something wrong. Mouth ulcers, dental disease, nausea, injury or poisoning can all cause excessive drooling. Check for bad breath, red or swollen gums, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating or suddenly preferring softer food. Any of these symptoms should be checked by a vet.
Grooming: Excessive grooming may indicate skin irritation, stress or pain. Check for bald patches, broken skin or repeated licking of one area. A sudden decline in grooming can also be concerning, especially in older cats. Arthritis or reduced flexibility may cause matting, dandruff or a greasy coat around the back and hindquarters. Both overgrooming and reduced grooming require veterinary attention.
Hiding from cuddles: If your once cuddly cat starts hiding or stops wanting to be patted, it can signify pain. If you also notice limping, reduced appetite or unusual meowing, get them checked by a vet.
Dr Warner said: “One unusual moment does not always mean a cat is unwell. What matters is whether the change is sudden, keeps happening or appears with other symptoms. Write down what you have noticed and when it started. Photos or short videos can also help your vet understand what has changed.”
