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Sometimes being an effective and appreciative pet “parent” involves some detective work.
Our furry family members are constant companions who give so much and ask for so little. But being a responsible cat owner sometimes means having to play some “CSI: Cat Scene Investigation.” Detecting a cat’s illness or injury can be difficult to do, but it’s important to notice small changes in behavior before a slight problem can become severe.
Even the most watchful kitty “parent” can miss some important cues from cats. When a cat is ill or injured, they will often hide the extent of their pain or discomfort. Cats do this because they have an instinctual urge to keep themselves safe. If a cat shows his or her illness or weakness, that can make them more vulnerable to a predator. While your housecat doesn’t have to worry about predation in the home, it’s a strong instinct to “keep quiet” when injured. That’s where the cat owner has to become the cat detective.
Many cats have visible changes when they are ill or injured. Changes in personality and appetite are most common. Is your cat suddenly sullen, less active, or choosing to spend their time alone? Does
kitty avoid your company or hiss or walk away when you try to pet him
or her?
If a cat has an injury to a particular area, it’s common for grooming to intensify on that area. For example, if a cat has received a wound on his or her leg, grooming will focus on that area, but you won’t be allowed access to it. Kitty will try to keep that area away from you – even though you’re the one that could help the most!
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To watch for signs of pain or discomfort, here is a list to keep in mind:
- Changes in social behavior when interacting
with you or with the other pets.
- If you have other cats, do they seem to be overly interested in that kitty?
- Changes in the amount of interaction your kitty wants, e.g., wanting less attention, hiding from people or other pets, or avoiding any attention that you try to give.
- Differences with grooming: less grooming? More grooming in one specific area?
- General personality changes: lethargic, change of normal activity level, sleeping a lot, grouchy, spooky, generally unhappy.
- Changes in urination: peeing outside of the box, difficulty with urination, blood in the urine (the latter requires immediate veterinary attention).
- Changes in appetite, noticeable weight loss, and disinterest in food.
By paying close attention to your cat’s cues, you can notice if he or she may be in need of a
veterinary intervention. Being a CSI requires observation, communication, and dedication, but
knowing your cat can mean breaking the case in record time.
Would you like to learn more about cat behavior? Volunteering at Misty’s Kitty City provides
educational opportunities and endless amounts of love, affection, and smiles.
Click here to
find out how to become a Kitty City volunteer - and learn more about what it means to be a “cat detective!”
Can't volunteer at this time? You can still
make a difference by making a donation
today!
(don't forget
to ask your employer
to match your donation)
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