10 Warning Signs to Look Out for In Your Pet Cat
As a cat lover, you probably know your feline friend’s quirks and routines better than anyone. From the way they curl up in their favourite sunny spot, to their unique meow when they’re demanding food, every cat has their own special personality. But here’s the tricky part: cats are absolute masters at hiding when something’s wrong. It’s part of their survival instinct, and it can make it hard for even the most attentive owner to spot trouble early.
That’s why paying close attention to small changes in your cat’s behaviour, appearance, or habits is so important. Early intervention can make a huge difference to their health, comfort, and overall well-being. It can even save their life.
What are the warning signs to look out for?
Cats may not speak our language, but they do communicate through their bodies and behaviour. Here are ten important signals that your feline might need a trip to the vet:
- Changes in appetite
If your car suddenly eats far more, or far less, than usual, don’t ignore it. A reduced appetite might be linked to dental disease, stress, or kidney issues, while an increase could point to conditions like diabetes or hyperthyroidism.
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
Weight changes can be tricky to notice under a fluffy coat. That’s why it’s a good habit to gently feel your cat’s body every so often. Prominent bones or a sagging belly could mean it’s time for a vet check.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
An occasional hairball is perfectly normal. But if your cat is vomiting often or experiencing frequent diarrhoea, that could signal infections, parasites, food intolerances, or more serious chronic illnesses.
- Grooming habit changes
Cats are famously clean and usually spend hours grooming themselves each day. If your cat suddenly stops grooming (leading to a scruffy coat), or over-grooms to the point of bald patches, there could be underlying pain, stress, or skin conditions at play.
- Lethargy or reduced activity
Cats do love their naps, but if your usually playful feline seems unusually tired, withdrawn, or disinterested in play, it may be a sign of illness or emotional stress.
- Litter box changes
The litter box can tell you a lot about your cat’s health. If you notice urination outside the box, straining, or blood in the urine, it may point to urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).
- Breathing difficulties
Coughing, wheezing, or rapid breathing are always red flags. These may be linked to asthma, heart conditions, or respiratory infections. If you notice these symptoms, seek urgent veterinary care.
- Bad breath
A little fishy breath is normal, but foul or unusually sweet-smelling breath can point to dental disease, kidney issues, or diabetes. If in doubt, get it checked.
- Behavioural changes
Cats may not talk, but they do show us how they’re feeling through behaviour. If your cat becomes suddenly aggressive, extra clingy, or hides away more than usual, it could mean they’re in pain or unwell.
- Lumps, bumps and injuries
Take a moment to check your cat's body for swelling, wounds, or sores. Abscesses and lumps should never be ignored; if something doesn't heal quickly, it's best to get it looked at.
Why these signs matter and how pet insurance helps
Many of these symptoms can be linked to health conditions that require vet visits, diagnostic tests, or even surgery. And as most cat owners know, these costs can add up very quickly.
That’s where pet insurance steps in to give you peace of mind. With a policy from Vets Choice, you’ll be supported with:
- emergency and after-hours care
- management of chronic conditions like kidney disease or diabetes
- diagnostic scans, blood tests, and medications
- specialist referrals, if needed
By catching issues early, you can improve your cat’s recovery chances and reduce long-term treatment costs. Insurance takes away the stress of second-guessing your budget and lets you focus on your cat’s health first.
Why choose Vets Choice for your cat?
Your cat deserves cover that truly puts their needs first. Here’s why Vets Choice is trusted by Aussie pet owners:
- backed by the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA)
- cover for some successfully treated pre-existing conditions
- optional dental cover for accidents, illness, and routine care
- third-party liability cover (for those adventurous cats who get into mischief!)
- a no-claims bonus to reward responsible ownership
- flexible policy options so you can tailor your cover to your lifestyle and budget
Understanding the warning signs in cats helps you take a proactive and careful approach to your pet’s care. And when unexpected bumps in the road appear, Vets Choice insurance for pets ensures you’re ready to handle them with confidence.
