Community Corner
Is Your Cat Out Of Sorts?
Knowing what is normal for your feline companion is key to keeping her healthy.
Cats can be independent animals. As a result, health issues often go undetected. Learn what is “normal” for your feline so you can spot whether she is out of sorts. Here are some tips:
--Is your cat active? Cats normally become less active as they age, but even a senior feline should play if a toy is presented. Changes in a cat’s activity level should alert an owner to lethargy, depression or even an injury.
--Cats love to groom themselves and spend a large part of a day doing so. Failure to groom, resulting in a greasy, unkempt, dull coat, can signal health issues. If your cat starts grooming one area of her coat excessively or chewing at an area, this can be a sign of fleas or she may be suffering from a skin irritation.
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--Although cats have a reputation for independence, most are very sociable with their owners and other pets in the household. A social cat that suddenly starts staying in a corner may have some physical or emotional problems that need veterinary attention.
--A sudden lack of appetite should be a cause for concern, as would vomit and diarrhea. Vomiting can be a sign of hairballs. There are specially formulated foods and medications for this common problem. Talk to your veterinarian about the best management program for your feline.
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--Pet your cat daily to feel for new bumps, lumps or injuries. Pay attention to her walk or stride, which can alert you to an injury or arthritis.
--If you cat is urinating outside her litter box, this can signal a urinary tract infection or just a dirty box. Be sure to keep her bathroom clean! If the accidents happen when the litter box is clean, and the cat is potty trained, this can be a surefire sign the animal is experiencing a health problem that requires veterinary attention.
Being watchful of your cat and her behaviors. Different cats display symptoms of illness in different ways. If your cat is acting out of sorts, consult your veterinarian.
If you are looking for a feline companion, check out the attached photos of just some of the cats (and dogs!) available for adoption at
