Cats won’t tell you when they’re sick. In fact, as an innate protective measure, cats often hide illness. Showing such vulnerability in the wild could leave them open to attack from predators. Your home might be free from predators, but cats might not believe it. With that in mind, keep an eye out for the following five telltale signs of cat illness and generally think to yourself: What am I noticing now that I didn’t notice before?

Changes in a cat’s eating habits
Sick cats could eat less or eat more, or might drink more water. For instance, hyperthyroidism and diabetes are often accompanied by symptoms of excessive appetite. Difficulty eating or a decreased appetite could indicate heart disease or a dental issue
Changes in litterbox habits
Keep an eye on your cat’s excretions. Have your cat's bowel movements changed in consistency? Does your cat have diarrhea or constipation? Has the cat started urinating more? Some other bodily discharges are also abnormal. For instance, does your cat have a runny nose or eyes, or gunk in the ears? Do you notice excessive salivation or blood in the urine? Have you noticed any odd odors?
Changes in a cat’s energy levels or activity
See if your cat’s movements have changed. Has your cat’s activity rate decreased or increased? Also watch out for changes in your cat’s ability to do things like jump up, and notice whether your cat is shaking their head or scratching their ears a lot.
Changes in appearance
Sometimes, no one thing will signal cat illness, but the whole picture could look amiss. Your cat might sit hunched up, or possibly change expressions. Your cat’s coat might have lost its luster and pliability, or your cat’s fur might have begun to fall out excessively.
Abrupt changes in your cat
In general, any abrupt or severe change in your cat is cause for immediate concern. For example, a cat that suddenly becomes unable to use their hind legs needs to see a veterinarian right away.

How to recognize a cat emergency

When you decide to see a vet, you might have to choose between seeing an unknown emergency veterinarian after hours or waiting until your cat's regular veterinarian is back on duty. Signs that indicate your cat needs immediate care include trouble breathing, seizures, protracted vomiting, paralysis, hemorrhage or straining to urinate.

More subtle signs of a serious illness include jaundice (yellow tint to the gums, eyes and skin), pale gums indicating anemia or shock, and abnormally high or low body temperature. Delaying treatment for these disorders, even for a few hours, can make the difference between recovery and death.

Be sure to contact your veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms or have any questions or concerns about your cat’s health. You can use the CareCredit credit card to pay for exams, including emergency visits, regular exams, medications, treatments and products at participating veterinary practices nationwide.* Use the Acceptance Locator or download the CareCredit Mobile App to find a nearby practice that accepts the CareCredit credit card.