Becoming a cat owner can present many worries. If you're concerned about a common issue in your cat - whether something related to behaviour or health, you might be wondering what to do next. It's important to keep an eye on your cat's behaviour in case there are any changes.
Cats are particularly good at hiding when they're in pain, so you'll want to keep an eye on signs and symptoms of common illnesses and various parasites. With cats prone to everything from flea infestations to cat flu, it is important to have regular visits to the vet.
Vaccinations can help prevent against some illnesses too. Speak to your vet for more information or visit our vaccinations guide for more details.
Fleas and worm infestations are common and will need to be treated appropriately. More common illnesses like cat flu or diarrhoea also need to be treated on an individual basis. Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a parasite and can occur in cats.
You can learn more about common cat illnesses in our guide.
Behavioural issues in cats are common and cats who appear to be misbehaving may just be exhibiting normal cat behaviour.
If your cat's behaviour changes, it could be a sign that they are stressed, scared or sick - in which case, you should see your vet straight away.
Scratching, inappropriate toileting, shyness and aggression can all be signs of stress or that your cat is unwell. Take a look at our guide on managing cat behaviour for signs to look for.
If your cat does have a behavioural problem, we recommend you discuss the problem with your vet who can refer you to a qualified behaviourist, such as a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors or a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist that can be found through the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB).
