Describe what you actually see
Note timing, frequency, duration, appetite, water, urine, stool, breathing and behaviour. A short video can help when safe to record.
← Cat encyclopedia02
156 GUIDES
Symptoms & warning signs
What to watch, what to record and when a vet should be contacted.
IN THIS LIBRARY
Cat symptoms and warning signs
This library helps cat parents observe clearly and decide how quickly to contact a veterinarian. It does not diagnose. Breathing trouble, collapse, seizures, poisoning concerns and inability to pass urine require urgent professional help.
EMERGENCY FIRSTBreathing trouble, collapse, seizures, blue gums or repeated straining with little or no urine cannot wait.
Open the observation checker →Call a veterinarian or emergency clinic now. Online information should never delay urgent care.
START WITH WHAT YOU SEE
Common symptom pathways
Choose the closest sign for a focused guide with a quick answer, observations and clear warning signs.
MOUTH & SALIVAWhy is my cat drooling?
Drooling, swallowing and mouth warning signs
Check this symptom →EYESWhy are my cat’s eyes watering?Tears, squinting, redness and discharge
Check this symptom →SLEEP MOVEMENTSCat twitching in sleep: dreaming or something more?Dreaming, twitching and possible seizures
Check this symptom →STOMACHCat symptom guide: Repeated vomitingRepeated vomiting and urgent combinations
Check this symptom →MOVEMENTCat symptom guide: LimpingLimping, pain and safe next steps
Check this symptom →STOMACH & LITTER CHANGES
Vomiting, diarrhea and constipation
These signs can overlap with dehydration, pain, foreign objects, toxins or urinary trouble. Use the exact guide to collect useful observations without delaying care or improvising medicine.
VOMITINGCat vomiting: one episode or a bigger concern?
Count episodes, check the whole cat and avoid unsafe home remedies
Open the focused guide →DIARRHEACat diarrhea: hydration, hygiene and red flagsProtect hydration, record stool changes and use careful hygiene
Open the focused guide →CONSTIPATION OR URINE?Constipation in cats: signs, causes and safe actionConfirm urine output first because blockage can look similar
Open the focused guide →URINE & LITTER-BOX URGENCY
First ask: is urine actually passing?
Repeated attempts with little or no urine can be a life-threatening blockage, especially in male cats. Do not wait overnight or press the abdomen while trying to decide whether the problem is urine or stool.
LITTLE OR NO URINEStraining in the litter box: urine or stool?
Treat repeated unproductive attempts as an emergency
Check urine urgency →BLOOD IN URINEBlood in a cat’s urineCheck whether urine passes and arrange prompt veterinary advice
Check urine urgency →FREQUENT VISITSWhy is my cat peeing more often?Separate many tiny amounts from genuinely increased volume
Check urine urgency →BREATHING & CIRCULATION
Count only when calm—leave when breathing is hard
A resting count can be useful for a comfortable cat. Open-mouth breathing, marked effort, collapse or blue-grey or very pale gums means stop counting, minimise handling and contact emergency care immediately.
COUNT AT TRUE RESTFast breathing at rest: count it correctly
Measure only when calm and never delay care for visible effort
Open breathing guidance →BREATHING EFFORTCat symptom guide: Difficulty breathingOpen-mouth breathing or marked effort needs emergency care now
Open breathing guidance →GUM COLOURCat symptom guide: Pale, white or blue gumsVery pale, white, blue or grey gums are an emergency sign
Open breathing guidance →COUGHING, SNEEZING & NOSE
Record the episode—and check breathing between episodes
A cough is often mistaken for a hairball, while nasal signs can affect appetite when a cat cannot smell food normally. A short video and details about discharge help a clinic; open-mouth breathing or marked effort remains an emergency.
COUGH OR HAIRBALL?Coughing or a hairball? How to tell the difference
Film the posture and recognise breathing signs that cannot wait
Open respiratory guidance →SNEEZING & DISCHARGESneezing and nasal discharge in catsCheck frequency, appetite and whether discharge is one-sided
Open respiratory guidance →SUDDEN NEUROLOGICAL & MOVEMENT EMERGENCIES
Protect from injury, minimise handling and call
Collapse, a seizure or sudden painful hind-leg weakness cannot be diagnosed safely at home. Use the focused first-aid guidance only while contacting emergency care—not as a reason to wait.
COLLAPSE OR SEVERE WEAKNESSCat symptom guide: Collapse or severe weakness
Keep handling minimal and leave for emergency care
Open emergency guidance →SEIZUREWhat to do if a cat has a seizureMove hazards, time the episode and keep hands away from the mouth
Open emergency guidance →SUDDEN HIND-LEG PAINHeart disease in cats: understanding HCMDragging, cold paws or severe sudden pain can indicate a clot
Open emergency guidance →MOVEMENT & HIDDEN PAIN
Notice what the cat has quietly stopped doing
Cats may choose lower routes, hesitate or groom less before pain becomes an obvious limp. Make the environment easier, record natural movement and arrange veterinary assessment without forcing a jump or giving human pain medicine.
LIMPINGCat symptom guide: Limping
Reduce jumping, look for injury and arrange assessment for persistent pain
Open movement guidance →STOPPED JUMPINGWhy has my cat stopped jumping?A quiet route change can be an early sign of pain or weakness
Open movement guidance →BACK-LEG SHAKINGWhy does my cat’s back leg shake while standing?Use non-slip footing, record the pattern and do not provoke exercise
Open movement guidance →BALANCE & AWARENESS
Prevent falls and record what started suddenly
A head tilt, stumbling, abnormal eye movement or confusion can come from ear, toxin, injury or neurological problems. Keep the cat safely at floor level and seek prompt veterinary assessment instead of repeatedly testing balance.
APPETITE, THIRST & WEIGHT
Measure the pattern instead of guessing the cause
Food intake, water use, urine output and body weight belong together. Record the change, keep water freely available and contact a veterinarian promptly when a cat stops eating, becomes weak or loses weight unexpectedly.
NOT EATINGMy cat is not eating: when to call a vet
Confirm the last normal meal and call promptly for sustained refusal
Open appetite guidance →DRINKING MOREWhy is my cat drinking more than usual?Keep water available and measure the change with urine output
Open appetite guidance →WEIGHT LOSS WHILE EATINGLosing weight despite eating: why it mattersTrack food and weight because a strong appetite does not rule out disease
Open appetite guidance →MOUTH, CHEWING & NAUSEA
Watch the meal without forcing a mouth check
Drooling, dropped food and repeated lip smacking can overlap with dental pain, nausea, swallowing trouble or exposure. Film a natural meal if safe, keep packaging after possible exposure and seek prompt care when eating or swallowing changes.
DROOLINGWhy is my cat drooling?
Check swallowing, possible exposure and whether saliva is new or heavy
Open mouth-sign guidance →DROPPING FOODWhy does my cat drop food while eating?Dental pain, mouth injury or texture difficulty can interrupt eating
Open mouth-sign guidance →LIP SMACKINGWhy does my cat smack their lips after eating?Separate brief grooming from repeated nausea or oral-discomfort signs
Open mouth-sign guidance →SKIN, FUR & GROOMING
Photograph the pattern before treating the coat
Hair loss, intense grooming and a newly greasy or divided coat can reflect parasites, allergy, pain, reduced mobility or illness. Avoid human creams and essential oils; record the change and arrange assessment when it persists, spreads or becomes sore.
PATCHY HAIR LOSSWhy is my cat losing fur in patches?
Photograph the pattern and check skin, itch and flea-prevention history
Open skin guidance →OVERGROOMINGCat overgrooming: stress, itch or pain?Stress is only one possibility; itch and pain must also be considered
Open skin guidance →FUR SEPARATINGWhy does my cat’s fur separate into little sections?Grease, dandruff or reduced grooming can make coat sections more visible
Open skin guidance →EYES & EARS
Compare sides and protect sensitive tissue
One-sided discharge, squinting, cloudiness, ear pain or a head tilt can need prompt assessment. Take a clear photo, avoid leftover drops and do not probe the eye or deep ear canal while trying to identify the cause.
WATERY EYESWhy are my cat’s eyes watering?
Compare both eyes and look for squinting, redness or cloudiness
Open eye or ear guidance →ONE EYE IN WIND OR LIGHTWhy does one cat eye water in wind or bright light?Move indoors and recognise pain or injury signs that need prompt care
Open eye or ear guidance →EAR DISCHARGECat ear discharge: what colour and smell can tell youColour and smell are clues; pain, swelling or head tilt needs assessment
Open eye or ear guidance →WHOLE-CAT CHANGES
Use the cat’s normal routine as the baseline
Sleeping more, hiding or feeling warm are not diagnoses. Check whether eating, drinking, movement, grooming, breathing and litter-box use changed too, and contact a veterinarian when the pattern is sudden, persistent or joined by weakness or pain.
START WITH YOUR QUESTION
What this topic covers
Know the emergency patterns
Open-mouth breathing, severe breathing effort, collapse, repeated seizures, major trauma and urinary straining with little urine need immediate triage.
Use trends, not one isolated number
Your cat’s normal baseline matters. Repeated changes, combinations of signs and deterioration provide important context.
QUICK QUESTIONS
Important answers before you browse
Can an online guide diagnose my cat?+
No. It can support observation and communication, but diagnosis requires an individual veterinary assessment.
When should I call an emergency vet?+
Call immediately for breathing difficulty, collapse, seizures, major trauma, suspected poisoning, severe pain or inability to urinate.
GOOD PLACE TO START · 8 min
Constipation in cats: signs, causes and safe action
Small hard stools, repeated attempts and painful defecation may indicate constipation, but litter-box straining can also be a life-threatening urinary blockage. Confirm that normal urine is passing before assuming the problem is stool.
Read the guide →POPULAR IN THIS LIBRARY
See the complete library ↓Useful answers to start with
01 · 8 minWhy does my cat lick their lips after smelling food?Read guide →02 · 8 minWhy does my cat sniff the litter box and walk away?Read guide →03 · 8 minWhy does my cat stand in the litter box for a long time?Read guide →04 · 8 minWhat does normal cat ear wax look like?Read guide →05 · 8 minWhy is my cat’s voice hoarse in the morning?Read guide →06 · 8 minWhy are one side of my cat’s whiskers pointing forward?Read guide →
01
guide · 8 min
→02Constipation in cats: signs, causes and safe action
Small hard stools, repeated attempts and painful defecation may indicate constipation, but litter-box straining can also be a life-threatening urinary blockage. Confirm that normal urine is passing before assuming the problem is stool.
health · 14–16 min
→03Blood in a cat’s stool
Bright red blood usually comes from the lower digestive tract, while black tarry stool can represent digested blood from higher in the gastrointestinal tract. Colour and amount help triage, but bleeding with weakness, pain or illness needs prompt veterinary care.
health · 14–16 min
→04Black, tarry stool in cats
Truly black, sticky, tar-like stool can be melena—digested blood from the stomach or upper intestine—and needs prompt veterinary contact. Dark brown stool is different, but home appearance alone cannot safely rule bleeding in or out.
health · 14–16 min
→05Mucus in a cat’s stool
Mucus can coat stool when the colon is irritated, but appearance alone cannot identify the cause. Repeated mucus, diarrhoea, blood, straining, pain or illness warrants veterinary assessment and may require a fresh stool sample.
guide · 8 min
→06Cat vomiting: one episode or a bigger concern?
One isolated vomiting episode may be brief, but repeated vomiting is not normal. Count every episode and assess the whole cat—appetite, energy, pain, hydration and possible toxin or foreign-object exposure determine how quickly veterinary care is needed.
GUIDE · 6 min
→07Hairballs: common, but not always harmless
An occasional expelled hairball can occur, but frequent hairballs, repeated vomiting or unproductive retching should not be dismissed as normal grooming. Confirm whether hair is actually produced, reduce loose fur safely and seek veterinary advice when the pattern changes or repeats.
health · 14–16 min
→08Regurgitation in cats: how it differs from vomiting
Regurgitation is usually a passive return of food or fluid from the oesophagus, often soon after swallowing and without the abdominal effort typical of vomiting. Repeated episodes need veterinary assessment because fast eating is only one possible cause.
health · 14–16 min
→09Gagging or retching in cats
Gagging and retching can resemble coughing, vomiting or regurgitation. Breathing and swallowing determine urgency: repeated unproductive episodes, suspected string, choking or any breathing difficulty needs prompt veterinary attention.
GUIDE · 9 min
→10Why Does My Cat Dig in the Litter Box for So Long?
Long digging can reflect individual preference, a box that is too small, disliked litter, difficulty finding a clean area or discomfort while trying to toilet. Check what the cat actually passes—prolonged digging with straining or little urine needs prompt veterinary attention.
GUIDE · 9 min
→11Why Is My Cat Sitting in the Litter Box Without Using It?
A cat sitting in the litter box without toileting may be seeking a familiar-smelling refuge, but the same behaviour can accompany urinary pain, constipation or repeated unsuccessful attempts. A new pattern requires close output checking and veterinary advice.
symptom · 9 min
→12My cat is not eating: when to call a vet
A cat that stops eating needs prompt attention because appetite loss can reflect pain, nausea or serious illness and may lead to dangerous liver complications. Confirm the last normal meal, offer familiar food without force and contact a veterinarian the same day for sustained refusal.
symptom · 6 min
→13Cat symptom guide: Repeated vomiting
Repeated vomiting needs prompt veterinary assessment. Blood, severe pain, weakness, breathing change, inability to keep water down or possible toxin, string or foreign-body exposure can make it an emergency.
symptom · 6 min
→14Cat symptom guide: Difficulty breathing
Difficulty breathing in a cat is an emergency. Open-mouth breathing, pronounced chest or abdominal effort, a stretched neck, blue-grey or very pale gums, collapse or inability to settle requires immediate veterinary care.
guide · 8 min
→15Straining in the litter box: urine or stool?
Repeated litter-box straining may be constipation or a urinary emergency. If normal urine cannot be confirmed—especially in a male cat—contact an emergency veterinarian immediately and do not wait to identify the cause at home.
guide · 8 min
→16Coughing or a hairball? How to tell the difference
Cat coughing is often mistaken for an unsuccessful hairball attempt. Record the natural episode safely and note whether anything is produced, but treat repeated coughing as a respiratory sign that needs veterinary assessment rather than automatically giving a hairball remedy.
guide · 8 min
→17Sneezing and nasal discharge in cats
Occasional sneezing may be minor, but repeated sneezing with nasal discharge can accompany infection, irritation, dental disease, a foreign body or another condition. Appetite and breathing determine urgency.
symptom · 6 min
→18Cat symptom guide: Diarrhea
Cat diarrhoea may be brief or reflect parasites, infection, diet problems, toxins, foreign material or systemic illness. Frequency matters, but age, hydration, appetite, vomiting and overall condition determine how quickly veterinary care is needed.
symptom · 6 min
→19Cat symptom guide: Limping
A cat that starts limping may have a paw injury, torn claw, bite, fracture, joint pain or another painful condition. Restrict running and jumping, observe without forcing the leg and arrange veterinary assessment.
symptom · 6 min
→20Cat symptom guide: Hiding more than usual
More hiding than usual can be an early sign of pain, illness, fear or conflict. Let the cat keep a safe retreat while comparing appetite, litter use, movement and social behaviour with its normal pattern.
GUIDE · 8 min
→21Why does one cat eye water in wind or bright light?
Wind, dust or bright light may cause brief watering, but repeated tearing from one eye can signal injury, pain or eye disease. Squinting makes prompt assessment more important.
GUIDE · 8 min
→22Why does my cat sneeze after drinking water?
One sneeze after drinking may follow a splash or awkward bowl angle. Frequent sneezing, discharge, blood, noisy breathing or reduced appetite suggests more than a drinking habit.
GUIDE · 8 min
→23Why does my cat smack their lips after eating?
Brief lip licking after eating may be normal mouth cleaning. Repeated smacking can accompany nausea, dental pain, an oral foreign object or swallowing discomfort.
GUIDE · 8 min
→24Why does my cat’s breath smell fishy?
Persistent fishy or foul breath is not normalised by fish-flavoured food alone. Dental disease is common, while oral, digestive and systemic illness can also change breath.
GUIDE · 8 min
→25Why does my senior cat miss the litter box edge?
A senior cat missing the litter box needs easier access and a veterinary assessment. Pain, urgency, constipation, sensory change and cognitive problems can all contribute.
GUIDE · 8 min
→26Why does my cat sleep with their head against a wall?
A sleeping cat may rest the forehead lightly against a wall, but persistent forceful head pressing while awake can signal a neurological emergency. State of consciousness and the wider signs make the distinction.
GUIDE · 8 min
→27Do senior cats sleep more deeply?
Senior cats may rest longer, but a change in arousability, breathing, appetite, orientation or movement should not be dismissed as normal ageing. Compare the whole daily pattern.
GUIDE · 8 min
→28Why does my cat suddenly sit down while walking?
An occasional pause may be ordinary, but repeated abrupt sitting can reflect paw, joint, back or neurological discomfort. Observe the whole gait without forcing extra movement.
GUIDE · 8 min
→29Why do my cat’s pupils look different just after waking?
Uneven light or viewing angle can briefly make pupils look different, but true unequal pupils are not normal. Recheck in even light without shining a torch into the eyes.
GUIDE · 8 min
→30Why is my cat’s voice hoarse in the morning?
A brief rough meow can follow heavy vocalising or dry air, but recurring or persistent hoarseness may involve the mouth, throat or airways and cannot be diagnosed from sound alone.
GUIDE · 8 min
→What does normal cat ear wax look like?
A small amount of light wax may be present, but dark debris, odour, redness, pain, discharge or repeated head shaking needs veterinary assessment before treatment.
COMPLETE LIBRARYShow 126 more symptoms & warning signs guidesOpen +
31
GUIDE · 8 min
→32Why does my cat sniff the litter box and walk away?
A cat may briefly check scent and postpone toileting, but repeated sniff-and-leave visits can reflect an unsuitable setup, social blocking, constipation or urinary pain. Confirm normal urine and stool rather than guessing.
GUIDE · 8 min
→33Why does my cat stand in the litter box for a long time?
A cat remaining in the litter box may be trying to urinate or pass stool, hiding because of stress, or struggling with pain. First confirm output because little or no urine can be an emergency.
GUIDE · 8 min
→34Why does my cat lick their lips after smelling food?
One quick lip lick before a wanted meal can accompany anticipation. Repeated licking, hard swallowing, drooling or approaching food without eating may indicate nausea, dental pain, mouth irritation or stress.
GUIDE · 9 min
→35Why Does My Cat Shake One Paw After the Litter Box?
A cat may shake a paw after leaving the litter box because granules stick between the toes, but repeated shaking can indicate an irritating litter, sore pad, damaged claw or debris.
GUIDE · 9 min
→36Why Do My Cat's Ears Feel Warm After Sleeping?
Ears may feel warm after sleep because of bedding, room temperature and normal blood flow. Touch alone cannot diagnose fever; judge the cat's overall behaviour and use veterinary measurement when illness is suspected.
GUIDE · 9 min
→37Why Do My Cat's Pupils Look Different in Photos?
A photograph can make pupils look different because of angle, flash or reflection, but true unequal pupils in the same light can signal an urgent eye or neurological problem.
GUIDE · 9 min
→38Is It Normal for a Cat Whisker to Fall Out?
An occasional whisker can shed naturally and regrow, but multiple broken or missing whiskers with skin changes, rubbing or illness deserves investigation. Never trim or pull whiskers.
GUIDE · 9 min
→39Why Does My Cat Swallow Hard After Eating?
One ordinary swallow may clear food, but repeated hard swallowing after meals can reflect nausea or a problem in the mouth, throat or oesophagus. Record the pattern and treat breathing or swallowing failure as an emergency.
GUIDE · 9 min
→40Why Does My Cat Sit Hunched After Eating?
A tense hunched posture after eating can signal nausea, abdominal discomfort or pain. Compare it with the cat's normal resting posture and seek veterinary advice when it is new, persistent or accompanied by other signs.
GUIDE · 9 min
→41Why Does My Cat Keep One Eye Closed After Waking?
A brief sleepy squint should clear quickly. If one eye remains closed after the cat is fully awake, assume irritation or pain and arrange prompt veterinary advice rather than trying human or leftover drops.
GUIDE · 9 min
→42Why Is One of My Cat's Ears Dirtier Than the Other?
One dirty ear can reflect wax, mites, infection, a foreign body, allergy or skin disease. Compare both ears, avoid deep cleaning and let a veterinary professional examine one-sided debris with pain, smell or head shaking.
GUIDE · 8 min
→43Why does my cat suddenly wake and run from sleep?
A brief startle, twitch or sudden run can follow a sound, dream-like REM sleep or unexpected touch. Repeated episodes with stiffening, unresponsiveness, abnormal breathing or prolonged confusion need veterinary assessment.
health · 14–16 min
→44Why is my cat drooling?
Drooling can follow brief relaxation or a bad taste, but new, persistent or heavy drooling can signal dental pain, nausea, toxin exposure, an oral injury or another problem.
symptom · 8 min
→45Why are my cat’s eyes watering?
Clear tearing can follow mild irritation, but squinting, pain, cloudiness, redness, injury or coloured discharge needs prompt veterinary attention because eye problems may worsen quickly.
symptom · 8 min
→46Cat twitching in sleep: dreaming or something more?
Small irregular paw, whisker, ear or tail movements during relaxed sleep are commonly associated with dreaming. Stiffening, repeated whole-body movement, drooling or confusion afterward needs a different response.
GUIDE · 9 min
→47Help an overweight cat lose weight safely
Cat weight loss must be gradual and planned with a veterinarian. Measure all food and treats, protect muscle with suitable activity and seek help immediately if an overweight cat stops eating.
GUIDE · 9 min
→48Why Does My Cat's Nose Change From Wet to Dry?
A cat's nose can naturally change from wet to dry with sleep, grooming, drinking, room temperature and humidity. Nose moisture by itself cannot diagnose fever, dehydration or illness.
GUIDE · 9 min
→49Why do my cat’s back feet point outward?
Slightly turned-out hind feet may reflect normal conformation, but a new stance can signal pain, weakness or joint, nerve or paw problems.
GUIDE · 9 min
→50What does it mean when a cat’s ears feel warm?
Warm ears alone do not prove fever. Thin ear skin changes temperature quickly with the room, sunlight, sleep, exercise and blood flow. Check the whole cat and contact a veterinarian when warmth accompanies illness, pain or an abnormal ear.
guide · 8 min
→51Losing weight despite eating: why it matters
A cat losing weight despite a normal or increased appetite needs veterinary assessment. Measure what is actually eaten, then record thirst, urine, stool, vomiting, activity and body weight so the clinic can distinguish overlapping patterns.
symptom · 6 min
→52Cat symptom guide: Sudden weight loss
Unplanned weight loss in a cat is a reason to arrange a veterinary examination, even when appetite still looks normal. Confirm the trend, measure actual intake and record related changes without delaying care to run a long home experiment.
GUIDE · 8 min
→53Why are one side of my cat’s whiskers pointing forward?
Whiskers can orient toward nearby interest, but a persistent one-sided facial change deserves attention.
GUIDE · 8 min
→54Why does my cat keep licking their nose?
Occasional nose licking is normal grooming, but repeated licking can accompany nasal discharge, nausea, mouth discomfort, stress or something irritating the face.
GUIDE · 8 min
→55Why is my cat holding their head lower than usual?
A lowered head can reflect fatigue, pain, weakness, breathing effort or an individual resting posture.
GUIDE · 8 min
→56Why is my cat swallowing water loudly?
Bowl acoustics may amplify normal drinking, but a new gulping sound can accompany thirst or swallowing difficulty.
GUIDE · 8 min
→57Why does my cat rest with their chin flat on the floor?
Some cats relax this way, but a new withdrawn posture with reduced responsiveness can indicate discomfort or illness.
GUIDE · 8 min
→58Why does my cat step over food without eating?
A cat that approaches or steps over food without eating may be interested but unable or unwilling to eat because of nausea, mouth pain, smell loss, bowl setup, stress or illness.
GUIDE · 7 min
→59Why does my cat run around before using the litter box?
Running before using the litter box may reflect routine or urgency, but repeated dashing with straining, pain or little urine can signal a medical problem that should not be dismissed as zoomies.
GUIDE · 7 min
→60Why does my cat suddenly dislike having their ears touched?
New touch sensitivity can be caused by inflammation, injury, parasites or pain around the head..
GUIDE · 7 min
→61Why does one of my cat’s ears feel warmer than the other?
One ear can briefly feel warmer after sleep, sun or lying on that side, but persistent warmth with redness, discharge, swelling or pain deserves veterinary assessment.
GUIDE · 7 min
→62Why do my cat’s eyes reflect different colours in photos?
Angle, flash and normal eye structures can create unequal reflections, but a consistent difference deserves examination..
GUIDE · 7 min
→63Why is my cat suddenly walking low to the ground?
A low crouch can signal fear, pain, weakness or an attempt to remain hidden..
GUIDE · 9 min
→64Why Does My Cat's Back Twitch When Petted?
A brief skin twitch can be a normal touch response, but repeated rippling with biting, pain, frantic running or skin changes can reflect irritation, pain or another medical problem that needs assessment.
GUIDE · 9 min
→65Why Does My Cat Have Dandruff Near the Tail?
Flakes near the lower back can reflect dry skin, reduced grooming, parasites or skin irritation. Learn what to check, what to change safely and when professional help matters.
GUIDE · 9 min
→66Why Is My Cat's Fur Greasy Along the Back?
A greasy coat can appear when grooming becomes difficult or skin oil and debris build up. Learn what to check, what to change safely and when professional help matters.
GUIDE · 9 min
→67Why Does My Cat's Fur Suddenly Feel Greasy?
A suddenly greasy coat can mean grooming has decreased or the skin has changed. Check appetite, movement, mouth comfort, weight and skin, then arrange veterinary assessment instead of repeatedly bathing the symptom.
GUIDE · 9 min
→68Why Won't One of My Cat's Claws Retract?
A long, damaged or thickened claw may remain visible, and pain can alter normal retraction. Learn what to check, what to change safely and when professional help matters.
GUIDE · 9 min
→69Why Does My Cat Suddenly Have Bad Breath?
A new strong odor can come from dental disease, mouth injury or another health problem. Learn what to check, what to change safely and when professional help matters.
GUIDE · 9 min
→70Why Does My Cat Drop Kibble While Chewing?
Dropping food can reflect mouth pain, missing teeth, food shape or difficulty coordinating chewing. Learn what to check, what to change safely and when professional help matters.
GUIDE · 9 min
→71Why Does My Cat Paw at the Mouth After a Treat?
Pawing at the mouth after a treat may reflect a stuck fragment, irritation or existing oral pain. Remove further treats, check breathing and seek assessment when the behaviour repeats or other mouth signs appear.
GUIDE · 9 min
→72Why Does My Cat Chew on Only One Side?
Repeated one-sided chewing can signal discomfort on the opposite side or another mouth problem. Record the pattern without forcing an examination and arrange veterinary dental assessment.
GUIDE · 9 min
→73Why Does My Cat Meow Before Using the Litter Box?
A longstanding brief call before normal toileting may be an individual routine, but new or intensified vocalising can signal urinary urgency, constipation, pain or difficulty reaching the box.
GUIDE · 9 min
→74Why can I see my cat’s third eyelid when they are sleepy?
A sliver of third eyelid may appear briefly as a relaxed cat wakes, but persistence while fully alert—especially with squinting, discharge, illness or one-sided change—needs veterinary assessment.
GUIDE · 9 min
→75Why are my cat’s pupils different sizes?
Unequal pupils in a cat are called anisocoria. A sudden or persistent difference can reflect eye, nerve or brain disease and needs prompt veterinary assessment—urgently with pain, trauma or vision change.
GUIDE · 9 min
→76What are the black specks on my cat’s chin?
Black pepper-like specks on a cat's chin can be comedones from feline acne, but dirt, flea debris, infection and other skin disease can look similar. Do not squeeze or scrub them; photograph the area, clean bowls and seek veterinary advice if it persists or becomes inflamed.
GUIDE · 9 min
→77Why do a cat’s paws twitch during sleep?
Small paw, whisker, eyelid or tail twitches during relaxed sleep are often normal REM-sleep movements. Record a new pattern and seek veterinary help when movements are prolonged, violent, continue while awake or occur with stiffness, drooling, loss of awareness or confusion.
GUIDE · 8 min
→78Why does my cat’s back leg shake while standing?
A new back-leg tremor while standing can reflect pain, weakness, nerve or muscle disease. Film natural movement, prevent falls and seek urgent care for sudden painful weakness or paralysis.
GUIDE · 9 min
→79Why does my cat swallow after purring?
An occasional swallow during relaxed purring may simply move normal saliva, but repeated gulping, drooling, gagging or difficulty eating can indicate mouth, throat or oesophageal trouble. Observe the complete pattern and treat breathing or swallowing failure as urgent.
GUIDE · 9 min
→80Why does my cat sit with one paw raised?
A cat may briefly hold one paw up while listening, anticipating movement or pausing during grooming. Repeatedly avoiding weight on the same limb—especially with limping, swelling or a wound—suggests discomfort and needs veterinary assessment.
GUIDE · 8 min
→81Why does my cat sprint before using the litter box?
A brief sprint before using the litter box may be excitement or routine, but urgency, pain and digestive discomfort must be ruled out when it is new.
GUIDE · 8 min
→82Why does my cat urinate near the front edge of the litter box?
Urinating at the front of the box often indicates limited space, entry preference, pain or a box the cat cannot position in comfortably.
GUIDE · 8 min
→83Why does my cat poop beside a clean litter box?
Stool beside a clean litter box can reflect painful defecation, urgency, box design, litter preference or social pressure—not spite. Check health and output before changing the whole setup.
GUIDE · 8 min
→84Why does the fur around my cat’s ears look greasy?
Greasy fur around one or both ears can come from skin oils, scratching, discharge or topical products; the ear canal should also be checked.
GUIDE · 8 min
→85Are dry cat paw pads normal?
Slightly textured paw pads can be normal, but cracks, thickening, burns and persistent licking need attention.
GUIDE · 8 min
→86How quickly should a cat’s pupils change with light?
Pupils normally change with light, but persistent inequality or a delayed response in one eye can indicate an urgent eye or neurological problem.
GUIDE · 8 min
→87Can cats get hiccups after eating?
Brief hiccup-like movements after eating may follow fast swallowing, but coughing, retching and breathing trouble can look similar.
GUIDE · 8 min
→88Why does my cat’s lower lip tremble?
Brief trembling can occur with intense scent investigation or arousal, but repeated movement may reflect mouth pain or a neurological problem. Practical observations, a safe next step and clear warning signs.
GUIDE · 8 min
→89Why do my cat’s front paws turn outward when sitting?
Body shape and a relaxed stance can create a mild outward angle, but pain or joint change can alter posture. Practical observations, a safe next step and clear warning signs.
guide · 8 min
→90Why is my cat drinking more than usual?
A clear increase in drinking or urine output deserves veterinary attention. Keep water freely available, measure the pattern and arrange an appointment instead of restricting access or guessing the cause.
guide · 8 min
→91Fast breathing at rest: count it correctly
A true resting respiratory rate can help describe a change, but visible effort is more important than the number. Count only while breathing looks comfortable and seek emergency care immediately for distress.
guide · 8 min
→92Cat diarrhea: hydration, hygiene and red flags
One soft stool may be monitored in an otherwise well adult cat, but repeated diarrhoea, blood or illness signs require veterinary advice—sooner for kittens and seniors.
guide · 8 min
→93A limping cat is a painful cat
A limping cat is showing pain even without crying. Restrict jumping, observe without bending the leg and arrange veterinary advice; major trauma, a dangling limb or sudden inability to use the back legs is an emergency.
GUIDE · 6 min
→94When a change in behavior matters
A sudden change in a cat's behaviour can be an early health clue. Check appetite, water, toileting, breathing and movement before assuming stubbornness, ageing or a training problem.
symptom · 6 min
→95Cat symptom guide: A seizure
A seizure is frightening but your priorities are preventing injury, timing the episode and contacting a veterinarian. Do not restrain the cat or place anything in the mouth.
symptom · 6 min
→96Cat symptom guide: Collapse or severe weakness
Collapse or inability to stand is an emergency even if the cat gets up again. Call immediately, minimise handling and support the whole body during transport.
symptom · 6 min
→97Cat symptom guide: Pale, white or blue gums
Pale or white gums can accompany anaemia, blood loss or poor circulation; blue or grey gums can signal inadequate oxygen. Treat colour change with weakness, breathing difficulty or collapse as an emergency.
symptom · 6 min
→98Cat symptom guide: Eye injury or sudden squinting
A newly closed, painful, cloudy, bleeding or injured eye needs prompt veterinary assessment because corneal and deeper eye damage can progress quickly and threaten vision.
symptom · 6 min
→99Cat symptom guide: Suspected poisoning
Suspected poisoning requires immediate professional advice because treatment depends on the exact substance, amount, route and timing. A cat may appear normal before serious effects develop.
guide · 8 min
→100High blood pressure in cats: the signs can be silent
High blood pressure in cats is often silent until it damages the eyes, brain, kidneys or heart. Senior cats and cats with kidney or thyroid disease benefit from veterinary blood-pressure checks; sudden blindness, seizures or collapse require urgent care.
guide · 8 min
→101Heart disease in cats: understanding HCM
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can be present before a cat looks ill. Fast or laboured breathing, open-mouth breathing, collapse, or sudden painful hind-leg weakness are emergencies; echocardiography and veterinary assessment are needed to identify the heart problem.
guide · 8 min
→102Eye discharge and squinting: what to do
Eye discharge plus squinting usually means irritation or pain rather than a simple cosmetic stain. Compare both eyes, clean only surrounding fur and arrange prompt veterinary assessment.
guide · 8 min
→103Overgrooming, itching and bald patches
Bald patches and repeated licking can result from parasites, allergy, infection, pain or stress. The pattern alone cannot reliably identify the cause.
health · 14–16 min
→104Mouth ulcers in cats: what owners may notice
Mouth ulcers in cats can be painful and may accompany dental inflammation, infection, kidney disease, trauma, burns or other illness. Do not apply human mouth products or force the mouth open; arrange veterinary assessment promptly when eating, drinking or comfort changes.
health · 14–16 min
→105Red or swollen gums in cats
Red, swollen or bleeding gums are not a normal effect of age. Gingivitis, periodontal disease, tooth resorption and more extensive mouth inflammation can be painful even when a cat continues eating, so persistent change needs a veterinary dental examination.
health · 14–16 min
→106A broken tooth in a cat is not just cosmetic
A broken cat tooth may expose sensitive tissue or hide damage below the gumline even when the cat still eats. Prevent hard chewing, do not test or file the tooth and arrange a veterinary dental assessment; facial trauma, jaw misalignment or heavy bleeding is urgent.
health · 14–16 min
→107Tooth resorption in cats: subtle signs at home
Tooth resorption is a common, painful loss of tooth structure in cats and often begins where owners cannot see it. Jaw chattering, food dropping, head jerks or a red area at the gumline warrants a veterinary dental examination with radiographs—not home scraping or watchful waiting.
health · 14–16 min
→108Why is my cat scratching their ears?
Repeated ear scratching can reflect mites, infection, allergy, foreign material or other ear and skin disease. Avoid cotton swabs, peroxide, oils and leftover drops; protect the ear from self-injury and arrange examination before treatment obscures the cause.
health · 14–16 min
→109Ear discharge or odor in cats
Ear discharge or a new foul smell can accompany mites, infection, inflammation, foreign material or a growth. Keep the ear dry, put nothing into the canal and arrange an examination before cleaning or leftover drops obscure the cause.
health · 14–16 min
→110Frequent head shaking in cats
Repeated head shaking is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Ear inflammation is common, but pain, parasites, foreign material and deeper ear disease can look similar; avoid probing or drops and arrange veterinary assessment when it is new, frequent or painful.
GUIDE · 8 min
→111A beginner’s guide to cat dental care
Good cat dental care combines veterinary examination with realistic plaque control at home. Toothbrushing can help prevent buildup on clean, comfortable teeth, but it cannot remove established tartar, diagnose disease below the gum line or treat a painful mouth.
health · 14–16 min
→112A sudden head tilt in cats
A new persistent head tilt can accompany inner-ear, balance or neurological disease. Prevent falls, record eye and walking changes and contact a veterinarian the same day.
health · 14–16 min
→113Why is my cat losing balance?
A cat that suddenly stumbles, circles or falls needs prompt veterinary assessment. Keep the cat on floor level in a padded safe area, record eye and head movement only if this does not delay care, and treat inability to stand, seizures, toxin exposure or breathing difficulty as an emergency.
health · 14–16 min
→114Unequal pupils in cats: when anisocoria is urgent
Unequal pupil sizes in a cat are called anisocoria. A sudden change can signal painful eye disease, nerve damage or another emergency, so compare both eyes without bright light and seek veterinary care immediately.
health · 14–16 min
→115Why is my cat’s third eyelid showing?
A visible third eyelid may briefly appear during sleep, but persistent or unequal protrusion can accompany eye pain, inflammation, dehydration, illness or nerve change. Photograph both eyes in equal light and arrange veterinary assessment rather than applying human eye drops.
health · 14–16 min
→116A cloudy eye in a cat needs attention
A cloudy eye can reflect corneal injury, inflammation, pressure change, lens disease or other conditions that cannot be distinguished safely at home. New cloudiness—especially with squinting, redness, enlargement or vision change—needs prompt veterinary examination.
health · 14–16 min
→117Sudden blindness in cats
Sudden vision loss in a cat is urgent. Keep the environment unchanged, block hazards and seek immediate veterinary assessment because blood pressure and retinal disease may be involved.
health · 14–16 min
→118Nosebleeds in cats: first steps and red flags
A cat's nosebleed may follow trauma or nasal irritation, but clotting disorders, high blood pressure, toxins and nasal disease are also possible. Keep the cat quiet, do not pack or tilt the nose and contact a veterinarian—urgently for heavy, repeated or unexplained bleeding.
health · 14–16 min
→119Noisy breathing in cats
New noisy breathing may arise from the nose, throat or lower airways, and sound alone cannot show how serious it is. Keep the cat calm, record a brief natural video and treat open-mouth or effortful breathing as an emergency.
health · 14–16 min
→120Blood in a cat’s vomit
Blood in a cat's vomit can appear as bright red streaks, clots or dark coffee-ground material. Contact a veterinarian the same day, and treat more than a trace or illness signs as urgent.
health · 14–16 min
→121A swollen or distended abdomen in cats
A newly enlarged or tight abdomen can reflect gas, stool, fluid, organ enlargement, pregnancy, bleeding or urinary disease. Do not press on it; record the timeline and seek urgent care for pain, breathing difficulty, weakness or little to no urine.
health · 14–16 min
→122My cat ate string: what to do
Swallowed string, ribbon, yarn, floss or tinsel can anchor under the tongue or in the stomach and injure the intestine. Do not pull visible material or induce vomiting—call a veterinarian immediately.
health · 14–16 min
→123Fecal incontinence in cats
Stool leakage can result from diarrhea urgency, constipation overflow, pain, anal disease or neurologic problems. Keep the skin clean, document stool consistency and awareness, and arrange veterinary assessment—urgently for sudden hind-limb weakness, trauma or inability to urinate.
health · 14–16 min
→124Blood in a cat’s urine
Blood in a cat's urine is never normal and needs prompt veterinary assessment. Confirm whether urine is actually passing, record colour and clump size, and treat repeated straining with drops or no urine—especially in a male cat—as an immediate emergency.
health · 14–16 min
→125Frequent small urinations in cats
Frequent small urinations can reflect lower urinary tract pain and may look similar to scent marking or constipation. Count attempts and actual output; repeated straining with drops or no urine is an emergency, particularly in a male cat.
health · 14–16 min
→126Why is my cat licking the genital area so much?
New or persistent genital licking can signal urinary pain, skin irritation, discharge or another medical problem. Check actual urine output first, avoid creams and cleaning chemicals, and treat straining with little or no urine as an emergency.
health · 14–16 min
→127Urine leaking or wet bedding in cats
Wet bedding, dribbling while walking or urine passed during sleep can represent true incontinence, overflow, urinary disease, pain or neurologic problems. Keep skin clean and dry, provide easy litter access and arrange veterinary assessment rather than assuming a behaviour problem.
health · 14–16 min
→128A sudden change in cat urine odor
A sudden strong urine smell can reflect a dirty box or concentrated urine, but persistent change with thirst, larger clumps, frequent attempts, blood or illness needs veterinary assessment. Odour alone cannot diagnose infection, diabetes or kidney disease.
health · 14–16 min
→129Yellow gums, ears or eyes in cats
Yellow gums, ear skin or whites of the eyes can indicate jaundice caused by bilirubin accumulation. It is not a normal coat-colour change and requires same-day veterinary assessment.
health · 14–16 min
→130Dehydration in cats: signs you can observe
Dehydration in cats cannot be confirmed reliably by one home test. Reduced intake, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and diseases that increase water loss can contribute. Track drinking, food, urine and general condition, keep water available and seek prompt care when the cat is unwell.
health · 14–16 min
→131Can you tell if a cat has a fever?
Warm ears, a dry nose or hiding cannot confirm fever in a cat. Look for a clear change in energy, appetite, movement and breathing, avoid human fever medicine and ask a veterinarian about safe temperature measurement and assessment.
health · 14–16 min
→132Low body temperature in cats
A cat that is cold, weak or poorly responsive may have hypothermia, shock or severe illness. Move the cat to a dry warm environment, wrap loosely, avoid direct high heat and seek urgent veterinary care for profound weakness, pale or blue gums, trauma or breathing changes.
health · 14–16 min
→133Lethargy in cats: more than just a sleepy day
Lethargy means a meaningful reduction in a cat's usual responsiveness, movement or interest—not simply a long nap. Compare normal routines, record associated signs and contact a veterinarian when the change is clear, persistent or combined with poor intake, pain, vomiting or breathing changes.
symptom · 8 min
→134Cat ear discharge: what colour and smell can tell you
Ear discharge is not normal cleaning debris when it is new, heavy, smelly, bloody or paired with pain. Mites, infection, inflammation and foreign material need different treatment.
health · 14–16 min
→135Why is my cat suddenly always hungry?
A cat that suddenly seems constantly hungry needs measured food and weight records, not unlimited extra meals. Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, digestive disease, parasites, medication, competition and underfeeding are among possibilities; veterinary examination separates them.
health · 14–16 min
→136A pot-bellied appearance in cats and kittens
A pot-bellied appearance can result from body condition, parasites, pregnancy, fluid, enlarged organs, poor muscle condition or other disease. Do not press the abdomen or start random dewormers; photograph the change and arrange a veterinary examination.
health · 14–16 min
→137Muscle loss in cats: what owners often miss
Muscle loss can occur even when a cat's body weight looks stable. Compare the spine, shoulders, hips and thighs over time, record appetite and activity, and arrange veterinary assessment because ageing, pain, kidney or thyroid disease and other illness can contribute.
health · 14–16 min
→138New lumps or enlarged areas in cats
A new lump on a cat cannot be identified safely by touch or appearance. Record its location and size without squeezing it and arrange a veterinary examination, especially when it grows, persists, ulcerates or occurs with weight loss, poor appetite or lethargy.
symptom · 8 min
→139Why is my cat peeing more often?
More litter-box visits can mean frequent painful tiny amounts or a true increase in urine volume. Both require veterinary assessment, while repeated attempts with little or no urine are an emergency.
health · 14–16 min
→140A sore that will not heal on a cat
A scab, ulcer or sore that persists, enlarges or repeatedly returns needs veterinary examination. Infection, allergy, parasites, self-trauma and skin cancer can resemble one another, so document it and avoid human creams or repeated home treatment.
health · 14–16 min
→141First steps for an open wound on a cat
An open wound on a cat may hide deeper trauma or contamination. Control active bleeding with steady direct pressure, prevent licking, keep the cat quiet and contact a veterinarian; heavy bleeding, chest or abdominal wounds, shock or exposed tissue is an emergency.
symptom · 8 min
→142Why is my cat losing fur in patches?
Patchy hair loss can follow itching, parasites, infection, allergy, pain or overgrooming. The pattern is useful evidence, but appearance alone cannot identify the cause.
health · 14–16 min
→143Cat bite wounds and abscesses
A cat bite can leave a tiny puncture that seals over bacteria and later forms a painful abscess. Prompt veterinary assessment is safest; do not squeeze or lance swelling, and seek same-day care for fever signs, poor appetite, spreading swelling or marked pain.
health · 14–16 min
→144Burns in cats: immediate first aid
Cat burns can deepen after the event and are difficult to judge beneath fur. Stop the source safely, cool or flush only as appropriate, cover loosely and contact a veterinarian; electrical, chemical, facial, airway, large or deep burns require immediate care.
health · 14–16 min
→145Insect stings and sudden facial swelling in cats
A small insect sting may cause local pain and swelling, but rapidly increasing facial, lip, tongue or throat swelling can threaten breathing. Keep the cat calm, contact a veterinarian before giving medicine and seek emergency care for breathing difficulty, collapse or repeated vomiting.
health · 14–16 min
→146Suspected snakebite in a cat
A suspected venomous snakebite is an emergency even when punctures or swelling are hard to see. Carry the cat, keep movement minimal and travel to a veterinary emergency service; never cut, suck, ice or tourniquet the bite.
health · 14–16 min
→147Fleas on cats: signs, treatment and the home
Fleas can cause itching, flea-allergy dermatitis, tapeworm exposure and dangerous anemia in heavily infested kittens. Confirm signs with careful combing, use only veterinarian-recommended cat products and treat every pet and the environment as one coordinated plan.
health · 14–16 min
→148I found a tick on my cat
An attached tick should be removed promptly with a suitable tool or fine-tipped tweezers, grasped close to the skin and pulled with steady pressure. Avoid bare fingers, heat, petroleum jelly and cat-unsafe pesticides, then monitor the bite and the cat's health.
symptom · 8 min
→149Cat leaking urine while asleep
Urine leakage during sleep is not deliberate house-soiling. Protect the skin and bedding, record the pattern and arrange veterinary assessment for possible bladder, urinary, mobility or nerve-related causes.
health · 14–16 min
→150Ringworm in cats: what it looks like and why testing matters
Ringworm is a fungal skin infection—not a worm—and its appearance overlaps with mites, allergy and other skin disease. Arrange veterinary testing, reduce shared hair and dust, follow the full treatment plan and protect vulnerable people without abandoning or harshly isolating the cat.
health · 14–16 min
→151Cat chin acne: blackheads, swelling and infection
Cat chin acne often appears as blackheads or dark debris around hair follicles, but swelling, pain, pus and crusting can signal deeper inflammation or infection. Do not squeeze or scrub the chin; use gentle hygiene and veterinary assessment when it persists or becomes sore.
symptom · 8 min
→152Why is the skin on my cat's back twitching?
Brief skin ripples can follow touch, insects or arousal, but frequent or intense back twitching with biting, pain or frantic running deserves veterinary assessment.
health · 14–16 min
→153Dandruff and flaky skin in cats
Flakes in a cat's coat can accompany reduced grooming, dry or oily skin, parasites, allergy, infection, pain or systemic illness. Check the whole cat, avoid human shampoo and supplements, and arrange assessment when dandruff persists or comes with itching, hair loss or health changes.
symptom · 8 min
→154Why does my cat suddenly smell different?
A sudden new smell can come from the mouth, ears, skin, urine, stool or anal area. Locate the source without forcing handling, then arrange care for persistent odour or illness signs.
GUIDE · 9 min
→155Why does my cat pee outside the litter box only at night?
Night-only urination outside the box can reveal darkness, access difficulty or quiet blocking, but urinary disease must be ruled out first.
symptom · 8 min
→156Why has my cat stopped jumping?
A cat that suddenly stops jumping may be protecting a painful joint, paw, spine or abdomen. Treat the change as health information rather than laziness or normal ageing.
symptom · 8 min
→Why is my cat eating litter?
A cat that repeatedly eats litter needs veterinary advice. Curiosity can occur in kittens, but pica may accompany anaemia, digestive disease, nutritional problems, stress or other illness.