As a cat lover, you know how independent cats are. Inside or outside? In your lap or on top of the piano?
Excuse me, is that a book in your hand and were you planning on reading it? Chances are your kitty thinks the reason you opened your book was so she could sit with you and paw the pages. Watch out! He may think the reason you’re on the computer is for his entertainment purposes.

Predicting what a cat will do next is tricky business, but your creative, one-of-a-kind feline is like all the other cats in the world in one area: his health. Simply because she’s a cat, she’s susceptible to these 5 potentially deadly health problems:

1. Periodontal disease. Approximately 80% of cats suffer from some form of periodontal disease. Tartar builds up, and bacteria accumulated under the gum line is continually flushed into the pet’s system, leading to heart, kidney and liver issues.
2. Feline Oral Resorptive Lesions. As painful as it sounds, these lesions start at the root of the tooth and work outward to the enamel, making small holes. In the early stages, you won’t see any physical evidence when you look in your cat’s mouth, but his mouth may be very sensitive. She may even stop eating when the symptoms intensify.
3. Obesity. 54 million cats are overweight; that’s about half of our cat population! Obese cats don’t live as long as healthy cats and are more likely to develop arthritis, high blood pressure and many forms of cancer. Click here for ideas to keep your kitty fit and fabulous.
4. Litterbox problems. Not often discussed, the litterbox is decidedly an accurate indicator of your cat’s health. Increased urination, abnormal defecation or completely missing the box are symptomatic of a bigger problem or disease. (An upcoming litterbox post will reveal more details. Stay tuned!)
5. Hairballs. Cats are created to groom themselves, digest hair and eliminate it without issue. Hairballs are not normal, and they may signal disease or another temporary gastrointestinal problems. Ongoing vomiting or gagging without producing a hairball, reduced appetite, lethargy or bowel problems may signal a problem with hairballs.

Of course, we don’t want these predictions to come true! Next week, we’ll talk about learn what every cat lover should know about prevention and treatment for these five common problems.

If you suspect any of these problems in your cat, give us a call! We predict that you’ll be glad you did!