Signs Your Cat Might Need a Vet Visit

May 14th, 2025

Cats are masters at masking any signs of pain or distress, which is why many illnesses go undetected until they advance and become more serious. Here at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, we are advocates of prevention and early intervention to keep your furry companion as healthy as possible. Our dedicated team has put together a guide outlining warning signs that warrant a vet visit to ensure the best possible outcomes.

The following are the signs your cat needs to see a vet:

Changes in Demeanor: Feeling under the weather can impact your cat’s demeanor. Your furry friend may seem hunched over or not move as smoothly as usual. Different tail positions or tilting the head may indicate something amiss. You know your furry friend the best, so if something feels off, it probably warrants a vet visit to ensure nothing goes undetected.

Changes in Appearance: Hair loss, bumps, lumps, or any other changes in your cat’s coat may be signs of serious health problems, including cancer. Having your furry companion examined as soon as possible will ensure prompt treatment.

Poor Grooming Habits: Cats spend much of their day grooming themselves, but illness can interfere with their energy and motivation. Pay attention to signs of poor grooming, which may include a greasy, dirty, or matted coat, clumps of loose fur, a dull coat, or an increase in dandruff. Any subtle changes in your pet’s grooming habits may warrant a consultation with your veterinarian.

Changes in Behavior: Cats are creatures of habit, so changes in their behavior can be signs of illness or distress. These may include excessive meowing or vocalization, decreased socialization or withdrawal, or increased aggression, lethargy, or sleep. Changes in behavior may indicate pain, stress, or illness.

Changes in Appetite: Cats are often picky eaters, which is perfectly normal. However, it’s important to pay attention to sudden changes in appetite, whether an increase or decrease. Refusing to eat altogether is a definite red flag, which may indicate dental problems, renal issues, digestive disorders, or even something more serious like cancer.

Excessive Thirst: Getting your feline friend to drink enough water can be quite a challenge. However, endocrine disorders like hyperthyroid disease or diabetes can lead to excessive thirst, especially in older cats. Early detection is key to successful treatment and management, so make sure to schedule a vet visit.

Weight Loss or Gain: Unexplained weight loss or gain may be a sign of an underlying illness, such as thyroid problems, diabetes, renal disease, or even cancer. Regular visits to All About Cats Veterinary Hospital will ensure your furry companion maintains a healthy weight and identify any fluctuations that may need to be addressed.

Diarrhea or Vomiting: Occasional diarrhea or vomiting are no cause for alarm, but if they persist, become severe, or if you see traces of blood, it’s important to schedule a vet visit. Diarrhea or vomiting may be caused by infections, allergies, intestinal blockages, liver disease, renal disease, or other underlying concerns that require prompt attention.

Changes in Litter Box Habits: Straining or sudden accidents outside the litter box, little to no urination, or the presence of blood in the urine may indicate a urinary tract infection or bladder stones. Gastrointestinal issues may also lead to diarrhea or constipation, leading to litter box avoidance.

Respiratory Distress: Respiratory problems should never be ignored. If you notice signs of labored breathing, coughing, or wheezing, make sure to seek prompt care. These symptoms can result from asthma, allergies, and even heart disease.

Trusted Feline Care in Kirkland, WA

At All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, we encourage pet parents to keep up with annual wellness visits to identify any underlying concerns in their earliest stages when treatment is most successful. If, however, you notice any signs of illness between vet visits, make sure to contact us for immediate attention. You can always count on our team for exceptional care for your feline friend because, after all, we are all about cats!