Preparing for the Vet: Sick Cat Symptoms

Taking your sick cat to the vet can be just as traumatizing for you as it is for him. From the yowling in the car to the cowering in the office, worrying about your cat’s mental state often causes you to forget important details.

Making a list of symptoms before you take your cat to the vet will alleviate the stress of describing what is wrong with your cat. Like doctors, veterinarians often seem hurried, and may not give you enough time to remember all your sick cat’s symptoms when asked. It’s also good to prepare for the questions your vet will ask you and to be able to say for sure what symptoms your cat does and doesn’t have. Here’s a checklist of symptoms to assess before you take your cat to the vet. And don’t forget to take your list with you!

Sick Cat Symptom #1: Has your cat been eating and drinking normally?

If something is wrong with your cat, chances are good that his eating habits have changed. Many sick cats refuse food altogether, which can lead to dehydration and further health complications. Your vet needs to know if your cat has stopped eating. Also, a severely increased appetite can indicate a thyroid problem, and an increase in thirst can indicate all sorts of health problems from diabetes to kidney failure.

Sick Cat Symptom #2: Have your cat’s bowel movements and urination been normal?

It’s kind of gross to watch your cat in the litter box, but it’s important to let your vet know what’s going on in this department, too. Is your cat straining to poop or pee? Is there blood in the feces, or is it extremely dark? Is your cat having diarrhea? Has your cat passed a foreign object or something that looks like a worm? If there’s any doubt that your cat isn’t going to the bathroom normally, take a stool (or urine) sample with you to the vet.


Sick Cat Symptom #3: Is your cat throwing up?

All cats throw up from time to time, and most cats will occasionally yak up a hairball. If your cat throws up several times in a day, or throws up once for several days, your vet will need to know.