According to surveys, there are more than 70 million stray and wild cats that roam the streets. Since stray cats can transmit dangerous infections, keeping your domesticated cat within your home is the best method to keep it safe from a severe illness. Your cat is less likely to engage in fights with other animals and transmit the infection through wounds when it remains inside.
Also, you’ll reduce the risk of exposure to infectious parasites such as fleas and ticks, as well as kidney damage that can result from the consumption of harmful compounds such as antifreeze. Cats living outside and in households with multiple cats have the most significant chance of contracting the illness.
The Most Deadly Feline Illnesses
Indoor cats and “only cats” can develop an illness. Most cat ailments are easily prevented, but they may be tough to cure if your cat gets sick. However, certain feline diseases can be more harmful than others. Read on to learn the most dangerous cat ailments.
1. Cat Rabies
Cats are reported to be more rabid frequently than any other domestic animal. They contact disease carriers more often than other pets because of their curiosity and hunting skills. Rabies is one of the most hazardous viruses since it isn’t just a cat-related disease; it could also infect people.
It is usually passed to cats via wild animal bites or ingestion. Rats or bats that have crept into your home may cause this with indoor cats. This severe and degenerative condition attacks the neurological system. Maintaining your pet’s oral and dental health can help prevent unwanted sickness. Vet clinics offering zeeland veterinary service can cater to your pet’s dental needs.
2. Cat Distemper
Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious viral illness that affects babies born to mothers who aren’t immunized. Even when treated often, the kittens die following the infection. It is transmitted by human fluids, excrement, and fleas and is frequently spread through water and food bowls, litter trays, and clothes.
The digestive tract and immune system are affected by feline distemper. Diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, starvation, anemia, and death are signs that felines with the disease may face within a few days. A vet may perform tests for blood to identify feline panleukopenia.
3. Renal Failure
The leading cause of mortality in senior cats is renal problems. Genetics, age, and external factors like poisoning may cause renal failure. Acute or chronic renal failure could occur in cats. Acute renal failure happens when the kidneys stop working abruptly, whereas chronic renal failure is a gradual process. To know more about geriatric care and veterinary services, you can do a quick search on the web.
Renal failure symptoms include frequent consumption of urine and nausea, thirst, constipation, vomiting, dehydration, inability to eat, weight loss, halitosis (poor breath), and tiredness. If your cat displays these signs, the vet may examine renal failure. Blood tests assess the function of the kidney.
4. Immunodeficiency Virus
Territorial tomcats and outdoor cats are particularly susceptible to infection through bite wounds. Sharing water and food containers do not significantly increase the chance of contracting a disease. It is rare for a cat’s mother to be a carrier for her kittens.
Once it is in circulation, the virus can remain low until it becomes active. IV is fatal, and since it impacts the immune system, affected cats are more prone to developing illnesses. Keep your cat inside and have them neutered to avoid IV. At present, there isn’t an effective IV vaccination.
5. Leukemia Virus
Feline Leukemia spreads by nasal fluid, urine, and saliva discharge. Cats could spread the illness by sharing drinks, food litter boxes, and food.
Certain cats get sick immediately after contracting the infection. The symptoms could not be evident for weeks or even years in certain cats. Feline Leukemia attacks the immune system and causes bone marrow loss. Any sickness may cause it.
Prevention is always better than cure. Giving your pet its needed care and attention will prevent future complications. A regular pet checkup can ensure that your pet is healthy and not suffering from any disease.