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[[File:Feral cat Virginia crop.jpg|thumb|Cats are frequently wounded in fights with other cats, and if punctures and tears caused by bites are left untreated, the wounds can lead to serious [[infections]], including [[abscesses]].<ref name=Wound>[http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=222&med=1 Bites, puncture wounds, and abscesses], John A. Bukowski, DVM, MPH, PhD
and Susan E. Aiello, DVM, ELS, WebVet.com; accessed March 30, 2009.</ref>]]
The '''health of domestic [[cat]]s''' is a well studied area in [[veterinary medicine]].

Topics include [[infectious disease|infectious]] and [[genetic disorder|genetic]] diseases, [[diet (nutrition)|diet]] and [[nutrition]] and non-[[therapy|therapeutic]] surgical procedures such as [[neutering]] and [[onychectomy|declawing]].

==Diseases==
{{See also|Category:Cat diseases}}
[[File:Catfeiradesantana.jpg|right|thumb|300px|An abandoned near-white cat suffering from illness in [[Feira de Santana]], [[Brazil]].]]

===Infectious disease===
An [[infectious disease]] is caused by the presence of organisms such as [[virus]]es, [[bacteria]], [[fungi]], or [[parasite]]s (either [[animal]]ian or [[protozoa]]n). Most of these diseases can spread from cat to cat via airborne pathogens or through direct or indirect contact, while others require a [[vector (epidemiology)|vector]] such as a tick or mosquito. Certain infectious diseases are a concern from a [[public health]] standpoint because they are [[zoonosis|zoonoses]] (transmittable to humans).

====Viral====
[[Virus|Viral]] diseases in cats can be serious, especially in [[cattery|catteries]] and [[kennel]]s. Timely vaccination can reduce the risk and severity of an infection. The most commonly recommended viruses to vaccinate cats against are:
*[[Feline viral rhinotracheitis]] (FVR) is an upper respiratory infection of [[cat]]s caused by feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1).
*[[Feline calicivirus]] (FCV), the other common viral cause of respiratory infection in cats.
*[[Feline panleukopenia]] (FPV) more commonly known as feline distemper.
*[[Rabies in animals|Rabies]], a fatal disease transmitted by the bite of an infected [[mammal]]. In the United States, cats make up 4.6% of reported cases of rabies infected animals.<ref>{{cite pmid|17696853}}</ref>

Other viruses cats may be exposed to include:
*[[Chlamydophila felis]]
*[[Feline leukemia virus]] (FeLV), a [[retrovirus]] not a cancer.
*[[Feline immunodeficiency virus]] (FIV), a [[lentivirus]], and also not a cancer.
*[[Feline infectious peritonitis]] (FIP), a fatal, incurable disease caused by Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV), which is a mutation of Feline Enteric [[Coronavirus]] (FECV/FeCoV).
*[[H5N1]]. See: [[Global spread of H5N1#Felidae (cats)]]

====Fungal====
*[[Ringworm]]
* Cryptococcus

====Parasites====
[[Veterinary parasitology]] studies both external and internal [[parasite]]s in animals. External parasites, such as fleas, mites, ticks and mosquitoes can cause skin irritation and are often carriers of other diseases or of internal parasites.

=====External parasites=====
*[[Ear mite]]s and other [[mite]]s can cause skin problems such as [[mange]].
*[[Tick]]s, [[Cat flea|flea]]s, and [[mosquito]]es often carry multiple blood-borne diseases.

=====Internal parasites=====
*[[Heartworm]]
*[[Toxocara cati|Roundworm]]
*[[Toxoplasmosis]]
*[[Cytauxzoonosis]]

===Genetic disease===
[[File:Cat Briciola with pretty and different colour of eyes.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A cat displaying heterochromia]]
*[[Familial renal disease in animals|Familial renal disease]] is inherited in [[Abyssinian (cat)|Abyssinian]]s and [[Persian (cat)|Persian]]s
*[[Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy|Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy]]
*[[Heart valve dysplasia]]
*[[Heterochromia]]
*[[Luxating patella]]
*[[Portosystemic shunt]]. Found in Persians and [[Himalayas|Himalayan]]s.
*[[Flat-chested kitten syndrome]]

===Skin disorder===
{{Further|Cat skin disorders}}
Cat skin disorders are among the most common health problems in cats. Skin disorders in cats have many causes, and many of the common skin disorders that afflict people have a counterpart in cats. The condition of a cat's skin and coat can also be an important indicator of its general health. Skin disorders of cats vary from acute, self-limiting problems to chronic or long-lasting problems requiring life-time treatment.

*[[Cheyletiella]] is a mild [[dermatitis]] caused by [[mite]]s of the [[genus]] '''''Cheyletiella'''''. It is also known as '''walking dandruff''' due to skin scales being carried by the mites. ''Cheyletiella'' live on the skin surface of [[dog]]s, [[cat]]s, [[rabbit]]s, and [[human]]s.
*[[Feline acne]]
*[[Feline eosinophilic granuloma]]
*[[Flea allergy dermatitis]]
*[[Hyperthyroidism]]
*[[Miliary dermatitis]] (feline [[eczema]])
*[[Mange]]

===Tumors and cancer===
*[[Bladder cancer in cats and dogs|Bladder cancer]]
*[[Bone cancer in cats and dogs|Bone cancer]]
*[[Intestinal cancer in cats and dogs|Intestinal cancer]]
*[[Liver cancer in cats and dogs|Liver cancer]]
*[[Lymphoma in animals]]
*[[Mammary tumor#Mammary tumors in cats|Mammary tumor]]
*[[Mastocytoma#Cats|Mast cell tumor]]
*[[Nose cancer in cats and dogs|Nose cancer]]
*[[Skin cancer in cats and dogs|Skin cancer]]
*[[Soft tissue sarcoma in cats and dogs|Soft tissue sarcoma]]
*[[Stomach cancer in cats and dogs|Stomach cancer]]

===Other diseases===
*[[Cerebellar hypoplasia (non-human)|Cerebellar hypoplasia]] is a disorder found in cats and dogs in which the [[cerebellum]] is not completely mature at birth. Cerebellar hypoplasia causes jerky movements, [[tremors]] and generally [[motor skills|uncoordinated motion]]. The animal often falls down and has trouble [[walking]]. Tremors increase when the animal is excited and subside when at ease.
*A [[Corneal ulcers in animals|corneal ulcer]] is an inflammatory condition of the [[cornea]] involving loss of its outer layer. It is very common in [[dog]]s and is sometimes seen in [[cat]]s.
*[[Diabetes in cats|Diabetes]]
*[[Epilepsy in animals|Epilepsy]] is characterized by recurrent unprovoked [[seizure]]s. Epilepsy in cats is rare likely because there is no hereditary component to epilepsy in cats.
*[[Feline asthma]]
*[[Flat-chested kitten syndrome]]
*[[Feline hepatic lipidosis]] also known as Feline Fatty Liver Syndrome, is one of the most common forms of [[liver disease]] of cats.<ref>[http://www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx?ID=42&sid=2 Welcome to Healthypet.com!<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The disease begins when the cat stops eating from a loss of appetite, forcing the liver to convert body fat into usable energy.
*[[Feline lower urinary tract disease]] is a term that is used to cover many problems of the feline [[urinary system|urinary tract]], including [[bladder stone (animal)|stones]] and [[cystitis]]. The term feline urologic syndrome is an older term which is still sometimes used for this condition. It is a common disease in adult cats, though it can strike in young cats too. It may present as any of a variety of urinary tract problems, and can lead to a complete blockage of the urinary system, which if left untreated is fatal.
*[[Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesion]]
*[[Feline spongiform encephalopathy]]
*[[Polyneuropathy in dogs and cats|Polyneuropathy]]
*[[Pyometra]]
*[[Unicornuate uterus|Uterine unicornis]] a condition in which the female cat is missing a uterine horn. A rare discovery by [[veterinarians]], the condition can be detected by [[x-ray]] or [[ultrasound]] prior to [[spaying]] if the patient has a family history of the medical condition. There is no known scientific study to prove that uterine unicornis is a hereditary [[genetic disorder]]. In some cases, the patient may also be missing a [[kidney]] on the same side as its missing uterine horn. This phenomenon is also called unilateral [[renal agenesis]].

===Zoonosis===
Researchers at the [[University of Cornell]] Feline Health Center believe that "most zoonotic diseases pose minimal threat" to humans. However some humans are particularly at risk. These are people "with immature or weakened immune systems" (infants, the elderly, people undergoing cancer therapy, and individuals with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Some common and '''preventable''' forms of zoonosis <ref>[http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/brochures/ZoonoticDisease.html Zoonotic Disease: What Can I Catch From My Cat?]</ref> are as follows:
* [[Toxoplasmosis]]
* [[Giardia]]
* [[Cat-scratch disease]]
* [[Rabies]]
* [[Ringworm]]

==Preventative medicine==

===Vaccinations===
{{main|Feline vaccination}}
Vaccinations are an important preventative animal health measure. The specific vaccinations recommended for cats varies depending on geographic location, environment, travel history, and the activities the animal frequently engages in. In the United States, regardless of any of these factors, it is usually highly recommended that cats be vaccinated against ''rabies'', ''feline herpesvirus 1'' (FHV-1), ''feline calicivirus'' (FCV), and ''feline panleukopenia virus'' (FPV). The decision on whether to vaccinate against other diseases should be made between an owner and a veterinarian, taking into account factors specific to the cat.

===Detection of diseases===
Feline diseases such as [[FeLV]], [[FIV]], and feline [[heartworm]] can be detected during a routine visit to a veterinarian. A variety of tests exist that can detect feline illnesses, and with early detection most diseases can be managed effectively.

===Parasite medication===
Once-a-month topical products or ingestible pills are the most commonly used products to kill and prevent future parasite infestations.

==Diet and nutrition==
{{Further|cat food}}{{See also|pet food}}
Veterinarians commonly recommend commercial [[cat food]]s that are formulated to address the specific nutritional requirements of cats although an increasing number of owners are opting for home-prepared cooked or [[raw feeding|raw diets]].

Although cats are [[obligate carnivore]]s, [[vegetarian]] and [[vegan]] cat food are preferred by owners uncomfortable with feeding animal products to their pets. The [[U.S. Food and Drug Administration]] [[Center for Veterinary Medicine]] has come out against vegetarian cat and dog food for health reasons. Cats require high levels of Taurine in their diet. Taurine is an organic acid found in animal tissues. It is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine. Taurine has many biological roles such as conjugation of bile acids, antioxidation,membrane stabilization and modulation of calcium signaling. It is essential for cardiovascular function in cats, and development and function of skeletal muscle, the retina and the central nervous system. Although meat protein can be substituted with vegetable proteins, vegetable proteins don't require sufficient amino acids which are vital for a cats body to function.<ref>[http://www.azcentral.com/ent/pop/articles/0518vegpets18-CR.html Vegetarian dogs and cats: Kibble doesn't cut it anymore<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.the-cat-guide.com/nutrition-for-cats.html Nutrition for Cats<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>

Cats can be selective eaters. Although it is extremely rare for a cat to deliberately starve itself to the point of injury, in obese cats, the sudden loss of weight can cause a fatal condition called [[Feline Hepatic Lipidosis]], a liver dysfunction which causes pathological loss of appetite and reinforces the starvation, which can lead to death within as little as 48 hours.

[[Pica (disorder)|Pica]] is a condition in which animals chew or eat unusual things such as fabric, plastic or wool. In cats, this is mostly harmless as they do not digest most of it, but can be fatal or require surgical removal if a large amount of foreign material is ingested (for example, an entire sock). It tends to occur more often in Burmese, Oriental, Siamese and breeds with these in their ancestry.

===Food allergy===
[[Food allergy]] is a non-seasonal disease with skin and/or gastrointestinal disorders. The main complaint is [[pruritus]], which is usually resistant to treatment by [[steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs]]. The exact prevalence of food allergy in cats remains unknown. There is no breed, sex or age predilection, although some breeds are commonly affected. Before the onset of clinical signs, the animals have been fed the offending food components for at least two years, although some animals are less than a year old. In 20 to 30% of the cases, cats have concurrent allergic diseases ([[atopy]] / flea-allergic [[dermatitis]]). A reliable diagnosis can only be made with [[dietary elimination-challenge trials]]. [[Provocation testing]] is necessary for the identification of the causative food component(s). Therapy consists of avoiding the offending food component(s).<ref>{{cite journal | last = Verlinden| first = A.|author2=Hesta, M.|author3=Millet, S.|author4=Janssens, G.P.| year = 2006| title = Food Allergy in Dogs and Cats: A Review| journal = [[Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition]] ([[Taylor & Francis]])| volume = 46| issue = 3| pages = 259–273
| doi = 10.1080/10408390591001117 | pmid = 16527756
}}</ref>
Cats with food allergies constantly itch their red, hairless, and scabby skin. Hair loss usually occurs on the face and/or anus. The most popular prescription diets for cats with food allergies include Hills Science Diet d/d or z/d.{{citation needed|date=June 2012}} It may take, depending on the severity of the reaction, two weeks to three months for a cat to recover if the offending allergen is removed. Immediate results may not be seen.

===Malnutrition===
[[Malnutrition]] has been seen in cats fed home-made or vegetarian/vegan diets {{Citation needed|date=June 2009}} produced by owners with good intentions {{Citation needed|date=June 2009}}, and most published recipes have been only crudely balanced (by computer) using nutrient averages.{{Citation needed|date=June 2009}} Because the palatability, [[digestibility]], and [[food safety|safety]] of these recipes have not been adequately or scientifically tested, it is difficult to characterize all of these homemade diets.{{Citation needed|date=June 2009}} Generally, most formulations contain excessive [[protein]] and [[phosphorus]] and are deficient in [[calcium]], [[vitamin E]], and [[microminerals]] such as [[copper]], [[zinc]], and [[potassium]].{{Citation needed|date=June 2009}} Also, the [[energy density]] of these diets may be unbalanced relative to the other [[nutrients]]. Commonly used meat and carbohydrate ingredients contain more [[phosphorus]] than [[calcium]]. Homemade feline diets that are not actually deficient in [[fat]] or [[energy]] usually contain a [[vegetable oil]] that cats do not find [[palatable]]; therefore, less food is eaten causing a [[calorie deficiency]].{{Citation needed|date=June 2009}} Rarely are homemade diets balanced for [[microminerals]] or [[vitamins]]. {{Citation needed|date=June 2009}} Owner neglect is also a frequent contributing factor in malnutrition.<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/182902.htm
| title = Nutritional Requirements and Related Diseases
| accessdate = 2006-10-27
| author = John E. Bauer, [[D.V.M.]], [[Ph.D.]], [[Dipl. A.C.V.N.]]
| date = 2005-01-01
| work = [[The Merck Veterinary Manual, 9th edition.]] ISBN 0-911910-50-6
| publisher = [[Merck & Co., Inc.]]
}}</ref>

Cats fed exclusively on raw, [[freshwater fish]] can develop a [[thiamine]] deficiency. Those fed exclusively on liver may develop [[vitamin A]] toxicity.

===Obesity===
{{see also | Obesity in pets }}
Neutering and overfeeding have contributed to increased obesity in domestic cats, especially in developed countries. Obesity in cats has similar effects as in humans, and will increase the risk of heart disease, etc. thereby shortening the cat's lifespan.

===Product recalls===
{{Further|2007 pet food recalls}}

==Non-therapeutic surgical procedures==

===Spaying and neutering===
{{Further|neutering}}

===Declawing===
{{Further|onychectomy}}

==Dangers in urban environment==

*[[High–rise syndrome]]
*[[Vehicles]]

===Toxic substance===
The [[American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals|ASPCA]] lists some common sources of toxins<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/a-poison-safe-home
| title = A Poison Safe Home
| work = Animal Poison Control Center
| accessdate = 2012-07-08
| publisher = American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
}}</ref> that pets encounter, including: plants,<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/
| title = Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
| work = Animal Poison Control Center
| accessdate = 2012-07-08
| publisher = American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
}}</ref> human medications and cosmetics,<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/human-medications-and-cosmetics.aspx
| title = Human Medications and Cosmetics
| work = Animal Poison Control Center
| accessdate = 2012-07-08
| publisher = American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
}}</ref> cleaning products,<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/cleaning-products-2.aspx
| title = Cleaning Products
| work = Animal Poison Control Center
| accessdate = 2012-07-08
| publisher = American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
}}</ref> and even foods.<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/people-foods.aspx
| title = People Foods
| work = Animal Poison Control Center
| accessdate = 2012-07-08
| publisher = American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
}}</ref>

Some houseplants are harmful to cats. For example, the leaves of the [[Lilium longiflorum|Easter Lily]] can cause permanent and life-threatening kidney damage to cats, and [[Philodendron]] are also poisonous to cats. The [[Cat Fanciers' Association]] has a full list of plants harmful to cats.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.cfainc.org/articles/plants.html | title = Plants and Your Cat | publisher = The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc. | accessdate = 2007-05-15}}</ref>

[[Paracetamol]] or acetaminophen (trade name [[Panadol]] and [[Tylenol]]) is extremely toxic to [[cat]]s, and should not be given to them under any circumstances. Cats lack the necessary glucuronyl transferase enzymes to safely break paracetamol down and minute portions of a normal tablet for humans may prove fatal.<ref name="CanVetJ2003-Allen">{{cite journal | author=Allen AL | title=The diagnosis of acetaminophen toxicosis in a cat | journal=Can Vet J | year=2003 | pages=509–10 | volume=44 | issue=6 | pmid=12839249 | pmc=340185}}</ref> Initial symptoms include vomiting, salivation and discolouration of the tongue and gums. After around two days, liver damage is evident, typically giving rise to [[jaundice]]. Unlike an overdose in humans, it is rarely liver damage that is the cause of death, instead [[methaemoglobin]] formation and the production of [[Heinz bodies]] in red blood cells inhibit oxygen transport by the blood, causing [[asphyxiation]]. Effective treatment is occasionally possible for small doses, but must be extremely rapid.

Even [[aspirin]], which is sometimes used to treat [[arthritis]] in cats, is much more toxic to them than to humans and must be administered cautiously.<ref name="vetinfo"/> Similarly, application of [[minoxidil]] ([[Rogaine (drug)|Rogaine]]) to the skin of cats, either accidental or by well-meaning owners attempting to counter loss of fur, has sometimes proved fatal.<ref>{{cite journal | author = Camille DeClementi |author2=Keith L. Bailey|author3=Spencer C. Goldstein|author4=Michael Scott Orser | title = Suspected toxicosis after topical administration of minoxidil in 2 cats | journal = Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care |date=December 2004 | pages = 287–292 | volume = 14 | issue = 4 | doi = 10.1111/j.1476-4431.2004.04014.x}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://showcatsonline.com/x/minoxidil.htm | archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070103001500/http://showcatsonline.com/x/minoxidil.htm | archivedate = 2007-01-03 | title = Minoxidil Warning | accessdate = 2007-01-18 | publisher = ShowCatsOnline.com | quote = Very small amounts of Minoxidil can result [in] serious problems or death}}</ref>

In addition to such obvious dangers as [[insecticide]]s and [[weed killer]]s, other common household substances that should be used with caution in areas where cats may be exposed to them include [[mothball]]s and other [[naphthalene]] products,<ref name="vetinfo"/> as well as [[phenol]] based products often used for cleaning and disinfecting near cats' feeding areas or litter boxes, such as [[Pine-Sol]], [[Dettol]] (Lysol), [[hexachlorophene]], ''etc.''<ref name="vetinfo">{{cite web | url = http://www.vetinfo4cats.com/ctoxin.html | title = Toxic to Cats | accessdate = 2007-01-18 | publisher = Vetinfo4Cats}}</ref> which, although they are widely used without problem, have been sometimes seen to be fatal.<ref>{{cite journal | author = Rousseaux CG, Smith RA, Nicholson S | title = Acute Pinesol toxicity in a domestic cat | journal = Vet Hum Toxicol | year = 1986 | pages = 316–7 | volume = 28 | issue = 4 | pmid = 3750813}}</ref> [[Ethylene glycol]], often used as an automotive [[antifreeze]], is particularly appealing to cats, and as little as a teaspoonful can be fatal.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.cfainc.org/articles/antifreeze.html | title = Antifreeze Warning | publisher = The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc. |accessdate = 2007-05-15}}</ref> Essential oils are toxic to cats and there have been reported cases of serious illnesses caused by [[tea tree oil]], and tea tree oil-based flea treatments and shampoos.<ref>{{cite journal
| url=http://www.vet-task-force.com/Abstract-tea-tree-oil.htm
| title=Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil Poisoning in three purebred cats
| journal=Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation
| author=K. Bischoff, F. Guale
| volume=10
| issue=108
| year=1998
| accessdate=2006-10-17
| format= – <sup>[http://scholar.google.co.uk/scholar?hl=en&lr=&q=intitle%3AAustralian+tea+tree+%28Melaleuca+alternifolia%29+Oil+Poisoning+in+three+purebred+cats&as_publication=Journal+of+Veterinary+Diagnostic+Investigation&as_ylo=&as_yhi=&btnG=Search Scholar search]</sup>
| archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20061015234207/http://www.vet-task-force.com/Abstract-tea-tree-oil.htm| archivedate = October 15, 2006}} {{Dead link|date=June 2008}}</ref><ref>[http://www.messybeast.com/teatree.htm TEA TREE OIL - TOXIC TO CATS]</ref><ref>[http://www.thelavendercat.com/3201/index.html Be Wary of Aromatherapy Claims for Cats]</ref>

Many human foods are somewhat toxic to cats; [[theobromine]] in [[chocolate]] can cause [[theobromine poisoning]], for instance, although few cats will eat chocolate. Toxicity in cats ingesting relatively large amounts of [[onion]]s or [[garlic]] has also been reported.<ref name="vetinfo"/>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.aahanet.org/PublicDocuments/FelineLifeStageGuidelines.pdf 2010 AAFP/AAHA Feline Life Stage Guidelines]
*[http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp The Merck Veterinary Manual ]
*[http://www.vetinfo.com/category/cats/ Encyclopedia of Feline Veterinary Medical Information]
*[http://common-cat-diseases.com/ Common Cat Diseases] Information on feline health problems.
*[http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/hinformation.htm Cat health info] Cornell Feline Health Center
*[http://www.felipedia.org Felipedia.org]
*[http://oldvet.com/notes-on-acetaminophen-toxicosis-in-cats/ Notes on Acetaminophen Toxicosis in Cats]
{{domestic cat}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Cat Health}}
[[Category:Animal welfare]]
[[Category:Cat health| ]]

Revision as of 17:10, 4 September 2014

Cats are frequently wounded in fights with other cats, and if punctures and tears caused by bites are left untreated, the wounds can lead to serious infections, including abscesses.[1]

The health of domestic cats is a well studied area in veterinary medicine.

Topics include infectious and genetic diseases, diet and nutrition and non-therapeutic surgical procedures such as neutering and declawing.

Diseases

See also: Category:Cat diseases
An abandoned near-white cat suffering from illness in Feira de Santana, Brazil.

Infectious disease

An infectious disease is caused by the presence of organisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites (either animalian or protozoan). Most of these diseases can spread from cat to cat via airborne pathogens or through direct or indirect contact, while others require a vector such as a tick or mosquito. Certain infectious diseases are a concern from a public health standpoint because they are zoonoses (transmittable to humans).

Viral

Viral diseases in cats can be serious, especially in catteries and kennels. Timely vaccination can reduce the risk and severity of an infection. The most commonly recommended viruses to vaccinate cats against are:

  • Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) is an upper respiratory infection of cats caused by feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1).
  • Feline calicivirus (FCV), the other common viral cause of respiratory infection in cats.
  • Feline panleukopenia (FPV) more commonly known as feline distemper.
  • Rabies, a fatal disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mammal. In the United States, cats make up 4.6% of reported cases of rabies infected animals.[2]

Other viruses cats may be exposed to include:

Fungal

Parasites

Veterinary parasitology studies both external and internal parasites in animals. External parasites, such as fleas, mites, ticks and mosquitoes can cause skin irritation and are often carriers of other diseases or of internal parasites.

External parasites
Internal parasites

Genetic disease

A cat displaying heterochromia

Skin disorder

Further information: Cat skin disorders

Cat skin disorders are among the most common health problems in cats. Skin disorders in cats have many causes, and many of the common skin disorders that afflict people have a counterpart in cats. The condition of a cat's skin and coat can also be an important indicator of its general health. Skin disorders of cats vary from acute, self-limiting problems to chronic or long-lasting problems requiring life-time treatment.

Tumors and cancer

Other diseases

Zoonosis

Researchers at the University of Cornell Feline Health Center believe that "most zoonotic diseases pose minimal threat" to humans. However some humans are particularly at risk. These are people "with immature or weakened immune systems" (infants, the elderly, people undergoing cancer therapy, and individuals with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Some common and preventable forms of zoonosis [4] are as follows:

Preventative medicine

Vaccinations

Main article: Feline vaccination

Vaccinations are an important preventative animal health measure. The specific vaccinations recommended for cats varies depending on geographic location, environment, travel history, and the activities the animal frequently engages in. In the United States, regardless of any of these factors, it is usually highly recommended that cats be vaccinated against rabies, feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV), and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). The decision on whether to vaccinate against other diseases should be made between an owner and a veterinarian, taking into account factors specific to the cat.

Detection of diseases

Feline diseases such as FeLV, FIV, and feline heartworm can be detected during a routine visit to a veterinarian. A variety of tests exist that can detect feline illnesses, and with early detection most diseases can be managed effectively.

Parasite medication

Once-a-month topical products or ingestible pills are the most commonly used products to kill and prevent future parasite infestations.

Diet and nutrition

Further information: cat food
See also: pet food

Veterinarians commonly recommend commercial cat foods that are formulated to address the specific nutritional requirements of cats although an increasing number of owners are opting for home-prepared cooked or raw diets.

Although cats are obligate carnivores, vegetarian and vegan cat food are preferred by owners uncomfortable with feeding animal products to their pets. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine has come out against vegetarian cat and dog food for health reasons. Cats require high levels of Taurine in their diet. Taurine is an organic acid found in animal tissues. It is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine. Taurine has many biological roles such as conjugation of bile acids, antioxidation,membrane stabilization and modulation of calcium signaling. It is essential for cardiovascular function in cats, and development and function of skeletal muscle, the retina and the central nervous system. Although meat protein can be substituted with vegetable proteins, vegetable proteins don't require sufficient amino acids which are vital for a cats body to function.[5][6]

Cats can be selective eaters. Although it is extremely rare for a cat to deliberately starve itself to the point of injury, in obese cats, the sudden loss of weight can cause a fatal condition called Feline Hepatic Lipidosis, a liver dysfunction which causes pathological loss of appetite and reinforces the starvation, which can lead to death within as little as 48 hours.

Pica is a condition in which animals chew or eat unusual things such as fabric, plastic or wool. In cats, this is mostly harmless as they do not digest most of it, but can be fatal or require surgical removal if a large amount of foreign material is ingested (for example, an entire sock). It tends to occur more often in Burmese, Oriental, Siamese and breeds with these in their ancestry.

Food allergy

Food allergy is a non-seasonal disease with skin and/or gastrointestinal disorders. The main complaint is pruritus, which is usually resistant to treatment by steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The exact prevalence of food allergy in cats remains unknown. There is no breed, sex or age predilection, although some breeds are commonly affected. Before the onset of clinical signs, the animals have been fed the offending food components for at least two years, although some animals are less than a year old. In 20 to 30% of the cases, cats have concurrent allergic diseases (atopy / flea-allergic dermatitis). A reliable diagnosis can only be made with dietary elimination-challenge trials. Provocation testing is necessary for the identification of the causative food component(s). Therapy consists of avoiding the offending food component(s).[7] Cats with food allergies constantly itch their red, hairless, and scabby skin. Hair loss usually occurs on the face and/or anus. The most popular prescription diets for cats with food allergies include Hills Science Diet d/d or z/d.[citation needed] It may take, depending on the severity of the reaction, two weeks to three months for a cat to recover if the offending allergen is removed. Immediate results may not be seen.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition has been seen in cats fed home-made or vegetarian/vegan diets [citation needed] produced by owners with good intentions [citation needed], and most published recipes have been only crudely balanced (by computer) using nutrient averages.[citation needed] Because the palatability, digestibility, and safety of these recipes have not been adequately or scientifically tested, it is difficult to characterize all of these homemade diets.[citation needed] Generally, most formulations contain excessive protein and phosphorus and are deficient in calcium, vitamin E, and microminerals such as copper, zinc, and potassium.[citation needed] Also, the energy density of these diets may be unbalanced relative to the other nutrients. Commonly used meat and carbohydrate ingredients contain more phosphorus than calcium. Homemade feline diets that are not actually deficient in fat or energy usually contain a vegetable oil that cats do not find palatable; therefore, less food is eaten causing a calorie deficiency.[citation needed] Rarely are homemade diets balanced for microminerals or vitamins. [citation needed] Owner neglect is also a frequent contributing factor in malnutrition.[8]

Cats fed exclusively on raw, freshwater fish can develop a thiamine deficiency. Those fed exclusively on liver may develop vitamin A toxicity.

Obesity

See also: Obesity in pets

Neutering and overfeeding have contributed to increased obesity in domestic cats, especially in developed countries. Obesity in cats has similar effects as in humans, and will increase the risk of heart disease, etc. thereby shortening the cat's lifespan.

Product recalls

Further information: 2007 pet food recalls

Non-therapeutic surgical procedures

Spaying and neutering

Further information: neutering

Declawing

Further information: onychectomy

Dangers in urban environment

Toxic substance

The ASPCA lists some common sources of toxins[9] that pets encounter, including: plants,[10] human medications and cosmetics,[11] cleaning products,[12] and even foods.[13]

Some houseplants are harmful to cats. For example, the leaves of the Easter Lily can cause permanent and life-threatening kidney damage to cats, and Philodendron are also poisonous to cats. The Cat Fanciers' Association has a full list of plants harmful to cats.[14]

Paracetamol or acetaminophen (trade name Panadol and Tylenol) is extremely toxic to cats, and should not be given to them under any circumstances. Cats lack the necessary glucuronyl transferase enzymes to safely break paracetamol down and minute portions of a normal tablet for humans may prove fatal.[15] Initial symptoms include vomiting, salivation and discolouration of the tongue and gums. After around two days, liver damage is evident, typically giving rise to jaundice. Unlike an overdose in humans, it is rarely liver damage that is the cause of death, instead methaemoglobin formation and the production of Heinz bodies in red blood cells inhibit oxygen transport by the blood, causing asphyxiation. Effective treatment is occasionally possible for small doses, but must be extremely rapid.

Even aspirin, which is sometimes used to treat arthritis in cats, is much more toxic to them than to humans and must be administered cautiously.[16] Similarly, application of minoxidil (Rogaine) to the skin of cats, either accidental or by well-meaning owners attempting to counter loss of fur, has sometimes proved fatal.[17][18]

In addition to such obvious dangers as insecticides and weed killers, other common household substances that should be used with caution in areas where cats may be exposed to them include mothballs and other naphthalene products,[16] as well as phenol based products often used for cleaning and disinfecting near cats' feeding areas or litter boxes, such as Pine-Sol, Dettol (Lysol), hexachlorophene, etc.[16] which, although they are widely used without problem, have been sometimes seen to be fatal.[19] Ethylene glycol, often used as an automotive antifreeze, is particularly appealing to cats, and as little as a teaspoonful can be fatal.[20] Essential oils are toxic to cats and there have been reported cases of serious illnesses caused by tea tree oil, and tea tree oil-based flea treatments and shampoos.[21][22][23]

Many human foods are somewhat toxic to cats; theobromine in chocolate can cause theobromine poisoning, for instance, although few cats will eat chocolate. Toxicity in cats ingesting relatively large amounts of onions or garlic has also been reported.[16]

References

  1. ^ Bites, puncture wounds, and abscesses, John A. Bukowski, DVM, MPH, PhD and Susan E. Aiello, DVM, ELS, WebVet.com; accessed March 30, 2009.
  2. ^ Attention: This template ({{cite pmid}}) is deprecated. To cite the publication identified by PMID 17696853, please use {{cite journal}} with |pmid=17696853 instead.
  3. ^ Welcome to Healthypet.com!
  4. ^ Zoonotic Disease: What Can I Catch From My Cat?
  5. ^ Vegetarian dogs and cats: Kibble doesn't cut it anymore
  6. ^ Nutrition for Cats
  7. ^ Verlinden, A.; Hesta, M.; Millet, S.; Janssens, G.P. (2006). "Food Allergy in Dogs and Cats: A Review". Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition (Taylor & Francis). 46 (3): 259–273. doi:10.1080/10408390591001117. PMID 16527756.
  8. ^ John E. Bauer, D.V.M., Ph.D., Dipl. A.C.V.N. (2005-01-01). "Nutritional Requirements and Related Diseases". The Merck Veterinary Manual, 9th edition. ISBN 0-911910-50-6. Merck & Co., Inc. Retrieved 2006-10-27.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  9. ^ "A Poison Safe Home". Animal Poison Control Center. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Retrieved 2012-07-08.
  10. ^ "Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants". Animal Poison Control Center. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Retrieved 2012-07-08.
  11. ^ "Human Medications and Cosmetics". Animal Poison Control Center. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Retrieved 2012-07-08.
  12. ^ "Cleaning Products". Animal Poison Control Center. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Retrieved 2012-07-08.
  13. ^ "People Foods". Animal Poison Control Center. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Retrieved 2012-07-08.
  14. ^ "Plants and Your Cat". The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc. Retrieved 2007-05-15.
  15. ^ Allen AL (2003). "The diagnosis of acetaminophen toxicosis in a cat". Can Vet J. 44 (6): 509–10. PMC 340185. PMID 12839249.
  16. ^ a b c d "Toxic to Cats". Vetinfo4Cats. Retrieved 2007-01-18.
  17. ^ Camille DeClementi; Keith L. Bailey; Spencer C. Goldstein; Michael Scott Orser (December 2004). "Suspected toxicosis after topical administration of minoxidil in 2 cats". Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. 14 (4): 287–292. doi:10.1111/j.1476-4431.2004.04014.x.
  18. ^ "Minoxidil Warning". ShowCatsOnline.com. Archived from the original on 2007-01-03. Retrieved 2007-01-18. Very small amounts of Minoxidil can result [in] serious problems or death
  19. ^ Rousseaux CG, Smith RA, Nicholson S (1986). "Acute Pinesol toxicity in a domestic cat". Vet Hum Toxicol. 28 (4): 316–7. PMID 3750813.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  20. ^ "Antifreeze Warning". The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc. Retrieved 2007-05-15.
  21. ^ K. Bischoff, F. Guale (1998). "Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil Poisoning in three purebred cats". Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation. 10 (108). Archived from the original (– Scholar search) on October 15, 2006. Retrieved 2006-10-17. {{cite journal}}: External link in |format= (help) [dead link]
  22. ^ TEA TREE OIL - TOXIC TO CATS
  23. ^ Be Wary of Aromatherapy Claims for Cats
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