December 23, 2021

Your cat is family, and just as with any other member of your household, sometimes your cat may develop symptoms that have you wondering if it’s time to seek out medical attention at your nearest animal hospital in Vancouver.

Gum discolouration

Like humans, healthy gums in cats should be moist and pink. Gum discolouration could be a warning symptom of several serious diseases and disorders, all of which require prompt medical attention.

• Blue-tinged gums are a sign that your pet is suffering from a lack of oxygen
• Pale gums could indicate anemia or blood loss
• Yellow gums are a common sign of jaundice in cats
• Bright pink or red gums could be a sign of heatstroke or carbon monoxide poisoning

Abnormal urination in male cats

If your male cat is displaying difficulty urinating, is urinating outside of the litter box, is in obvious pain while attempting to urinate, or can only produce minimal quantities of urine, it could be a sign of a dangerous urinary obstruction. Left untreated, this painful condition could lead to kidney failure or potentially a ruptured bladder. Male cats displaying these symptoms should be seen by a vet immediately.

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Vomiting or diarrhea

Cats are famous for producing hairballs, and the occasional soft stool isn’t something to stress over immediately. However, prolonged episodes of vomiting or diarrhea could signify a dangerous stomach obstruction or parasite and warrant a trip to an animal hospital in Vancouver.

Refusal of food or water

While it’s not uncommon for a cat to go several hours or even a day without eating if there has been a sudden change in your pet’s habits or they are completely ignoring food and water, it could be a sign that something is amiss. A vet should see a cat with appetite loss lasting more than 24 hours.

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Unusual or excessive lethargy

Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish between lazy and lethargic with cats, but the latter could be a sign of several severe medical conditions requiring immediate attention. If your cat is not responding to outside stimuli the way it usually would, it’s time for a visit to an animal hospital.

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This list is not comprehensive, and when in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult your local animal hospital in Vancouver.