Cats Health

Common issues and health checks

Common Health Issues

Dental disease

Dental problems are the #1 most common issue in cats, affecting over 21% of cats seen by vets in England . What to watch for: bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, red gums. Why it matters: Untreated dental disease can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Obesity

Around 12% of cats are recorded as obese in vet data . Risks: diabetes, arthritis, heart strain, reduced lifespan. Signs: difficulty grooming, low energy, weight gain around the belly.

Digestive
Issues

Digestive issues account for 8.9% of common cat ailments . Causes: diet changes, infections, parasites, hairballs, chronic disease. When to worry: persistent vomiting, blood in stool, dehydration, lethargy.

Skin issues

Skin issues affect 10% of cats, and flea infestations affect 5% . Signs: scratching, hair loss, red skin, flea dirt, visible worms or “rice-like” segments. Why it matters: Parasites can cause anaemia, infections, and digestive problems.

Health Checks

Health Checks are important so you can catch any illnesses early and can get your cat the veterinary care they need quickly. Always be asking:

Are they eating and drinking?
Are they behaviour normally?
Are they active and alert?

Ears

Eyes

Nose

Mouth and teeth

natural position
Discharge
Lumps/bumps/warts
bad smell
swelling

Clear and open
Discharge
Irritation
Different size to normal
Cloudy

Clear
Discharge
Swollen
Laboured breathing

Clean and clear
Jaw should open and close easily
Excessive drooling
Odour from mouth
broken/wobbly teeth
large build up of plaque and tartar
bleeding gums

Skin,fur & Paws

Clear skin
fur loss
abnormal lumps and bumps
cuts/wounds
overgrown nails
matted fur
foreign objects in paw pads/toes

Genitals

clear
discharge
irritation
swollen