10 Signs Your Cat Needs Health Support

Understanding cats will always be one of life’s great mysteries, even to cat owners themselves! While they’re loved for their independent (and often stubborn) nature, this can make it a challenge to know when they’re not feeling at their best. 

Knowing your cat well is a vital part of monitoring their overall health and well-being. At Brown’s, we are big believers in ‘prevention is better than cure’, and taking a proactive approach with your cat will ensure they’re always in tip-top condition. 

So, how can you spot the early signs of health issues when cats are the masters of hiding illnesses? Here are 10 signs that your cat needs health support…

1. Lack of appetite

One of the first and most obvious signs that something isn’t right will be changes to their usual appetite. Many cats are fussy, but loss of appetite (inappetence) can be very dangerous - if your cat doesn’t eat anything for two or more days, they can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).

Inappetence is linked to a variety of health conditions in cats, including gastric distress, anxiety, and dental problems (look for those who start to eat on only one side.) 

2. Skin & Coat Condition

Skin issues are one of our top consultation enquiries here at Brown’s. Itchy and irritated skin can mean there are underlying health issues, such as flea or seasonal allergies, and alopecia (fur-loss) or over-grooming can indicate stress. If your cat’s fur is greasy or smelly, it’s more likely to be an infection or even malnutrition - and yes, your cat can be malnourished on commercial pet foods, if the food doesn’t suit them!

3. Lethargy, Aggression, & Depression

If your cat is acting sluggish, withdrawn, or doesn’t enjoy things that they used to, they might be feeling unwell or particularly stressed. This may escalate into aggression if not treated, especially if they are in pain. 

4. Change of Routine

Cats will follow warmth, whether that’s the nearest radiator or a beam of sunshine, but if they start resting somewhere new, it could be for a reason. Perhaps they’re avoiding their favourite sunny windowsill due to competition with another cat, or they’re reluctant to jump onto the bed because of joint pain. Over 90% of cats over 12 have arthritis - Start supporting your cat’s joint health now with Joint Aid. 

5. Gastric Distress

All cats can experience vomiting from time to time, especially those who suffer from hairballs. Much the same as diarrhoea and constipation, these can be isolated instances that are easily treated with digestive supplements. Ongoing or recurrent stomach issues can be a sign of food intolerance, a weak gut microbiome, or a condition like IBD. 

6. Change in weight

If you see unexplained weight loss in your cat, their diet may not suit them, they may be stressed, or they could have worms. Conditions such as liver and kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes can also cause unusual weight changes, so these should be investigated once more minor conditions have been ruled out. 

7. Increased Thirst or Excess Urination

Cats who only eat dry food will naturally drink more than those on wet or raw, and it is normal for cats to be thirstier during summer. But if your cat’s water intake suddenly increases, they could have a UTI (especially dangerous for male cats) or something more serious like kidney disease. CKD is very common in older cats, so why not do your best to support your cat’s kidneys with a supplement like Proflax Feline Fine?

8. Signs of Stress

Stress can manifest in cats in a few different ways, including excess grooming, withdrawing or hiding, and soiling outside of the litter tray. Keep an extra eye out for symptoms such as these during times of stress (firework night) or upheaval (moving house). Prepare your cat for stressful periods with Dorwest Valerian Compound and Pet Remedy, or treat more general anxiety disorders with Dorwest Scullcap & Valerian Tablets.

9. Signs of pain

Pain can be more subtle and harder to spot than stress. They may demonstrate some signs of stress, coupled with a change in posture and body language. Look out for cats who are crouching or hunching, keeping their heads low, squinting (or closed) eyes, and flattened ears. They may also be more vocal and try to avoid being touched. 

10. Ageing

There is sadly nothing we can do to stop our cats from ageing, but we can provide them with plenty of support. Keeps joints moving with Salmon Oil, support their immune system and heart with Aniforte Taurine Powder, and lessen the effects of cognitive dysfunction (dementia) with Dorwest Braincopa Tablets. 

If you notice any of these 10 signs, make sure your cat gets the health support that they need. A natural diet, regularly monitoring their health, and supporting their body with herbal supplements can make a huge difference to their well-being. 

Explore our selection of natural supplements to keep your cat healthy and happy. Need further advice on your cat? Contact us, we’re always here to help.