Health

Heart murmur in cats is a condition that has the potential to affect a cat’s life in many ways. As a pet owner, it can be worrying. We’ve listed all you need to know about feline heart murmur, including the clinical signs (or symptoms) and treatment. Read on to find out more. What is heart murmur in cats? A heart murmur in cats is an abnormal blood flow within the heart that causes a whooshing sound. Your vet will be able to detect if your cat has a heart murmur by listening with a stethoscope. They may need to do some investigations, such as a heart scan, to determine the nature of the heart condition that is causing the murmur, and the impact that this may have on your cat’s life. What are the grades of heart murmur in cats? Feline heart murmurs range in severity. One system that vets use for describing heart murmurs, is to listen with a stethoscope and grade them from one (the quietest) to six (the loudest). • Grade 1: soft and often difficult to hear.• Grade 2: soft and may still be difficult to hear.• Grade 3: this is easily heard when the stethoscope is first placed over the cat’s heart.• Grade 4: a murmur that can be heard across the heart and both sides of the chest.• Grade 5: a loud murmur that has a vibration across the chest wall, which can sometimes be felt when a hand is placed on the chest. It can be heard with a stethoscope but before it touches the chest wall.• Grade 6: The loudest heart murmur that may even be heard without a stethoscope. Is heart murmur in older cats common?. Heart murmurs are more common in middle-aged and senior felines, than in youngsters. If a heart murmur is found in a younger cat, it is often due to congenital heart disease, in other words a heart condition that has been present from birth. If you suspect your cat of any age could have a heart murmur, make sure to contact your vet. How long will a cat live with a feline heart murmur? How long a cat will live with a heart murmur depends on the underlying heart condition that is causing it. With the right treatment, cats can live for many years even with severe heart murmurs. It’s important to seek advice from your vet to discuss the best treatment options for your cat. What causes heart murmur in cats? There are many causes of heart murmurs in cats, from congenital heart disease, to diseases that affect the heart muscle such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, as well as age-related heart failure. Heart murmurs may also be present in conditions that affect the circulation such as: • Cat pregnancy• Cat obesity• Anaemia in cats• Loss of weight in cat What are the signs of heart murmur in cats? For cats that have severe heart murmurs (grades 4-6), there are some signs that you can look out for: • Poor appetite in cats• Weight loss• Lethargy• Breathing issues• Pale gums If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet right away. It’s also important to understand your cat’s body language, so you can assess when something’s not right. How is feline heart murmur diagnosed?. A vet will be able to tell if your cat has a heart murmur by listening to their chest with a stethoscope. This way, they can hear the whooshing sound that is synonymous with feline heart murmurs. The vet can also assess which grade of heart murmur it is. What is the treatment for heart murmur in cats? Not all feline heart murmurs require treatment, and careful monitoring may be all that is required. In other cases your vet may prescribe medication to support heart function and reduce fluid build-up. Whether treatment is needed or not, it is still important to attend regular veterinary check-ups. We hope this article on heart murmurs in cats was helpful. Luckily many cats with feline heart murmurs can still live long and happy lives. But as always, contact your vet if you have any concerns about your cat’s health. Next, read our article on how to tell if your cat is overweight, a condition which can increase the risk of heart disease.

Cat eye drops can be a useful treatment for irritated and infected eyes. But how do you know when to use them and how to apply them? It’s important to consult the vet before purchasing or administering any eye drops to your cat. Keep reading to find out why. What are cat eye drops? Eye drops are a liquid that is prescribed to ease irritation of the eye and sometimes to treat eye infections. Eye drops that your vet prescribes or recommends will be made specifically for cats’ eyes. Drops are applied to the surface of your pet's eyes to help lubricate them, soothe inflammation and/or treat infections. How do I know if my cat needs eye drops? Your vet will be the one to determine if your cat needs eye drops or any other treatment. As an owner, it is important to look out for differences in your cat’s eyes and behaviour. There will often be distinct signs your cat may have a problem with their eyes. These could include: Swollen eyes or inflammation.Eye discharge that is watery, yellow, green or crusty.Raised third eyelid.Partially closed eye.Attempting to scratch or rub their eyes.Your cat’s eyes are watering. These problems can be painful or distressing for your cat, and can be a symptom of something more serious, so it’s important to always get them checked out by your vet. Like all health issues, they are far easier to treat in the early stages rather than waiting until they become more serious. You can also find our guides on various cat illness symptoms for more advice if you have concerns. Why would my cat need eye drops? There are many illnesses and infections that may require the use of eye drops. Sometimes cat eye drops will be recommended alongside other treatments or will help solve certain problems on their own. Here are a few examples of what may cause eye problems and why you might need eye drops for your cat: Cat flu One symptom of cat flu can be inflamed, running eyes. Depending on what virus your cat has, this can develop into eye ulcers. Eye ulcers are a serious condition which, if not treated, can lead to the loss of the eye. Drops may be recommended to help treat sore eyes and avoid further infection but won’t cure the virus itself. Most cats with cat flu can be treated at home by easing symptoms until the flu passes, but some cases can be more severe and require antibiotics or hospitalisation. It’s important to see a vet if you suspect possible cat flu, so they can rule out more serious issues and work with you to make a treatment plan. Allergies If your cat has allergies, they may get irritated eyes that itch and run. Your vet will suggest the best method for treating their allergies which can include using cat eye drops to help flush out allergens and reduce irritation. If irritation persists or worsens, it may be wise to go back to your vet, so they can rule out any more serious issues and discuss further treatments. Bacterial conjunctivitis Cat conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva in the eye) can be due to allergies or cat flu, but it can also be caused by bacteria. Your vet may recommend specific antibiotic eye drops or ointment that’s safe for cats’ eyes to treat the infection. Scratches Cats can get a scratched eye from getting into scrapes with other cats, an accident outside, an unexpected argument with spiky shrubbery, or even from overly vigorous playing. Scratches usually heal quickly but this depends on factors like the depth of the scratch, your cat’s health and any bacterial contamination. Your cat may only need a few days of eye drops to ease their discomfort and prevent infection, but it’s worth getting them checked by a vet rather than leaving it to chance as, in some cases, scratches can deteriorate and result in ulcers or other problems. Eye ulcers Eye ulcers can develop as a result of a cat scratch or an underlying condition like cat flu. They are sometimes visible on the surface of the eye but often require a vet examination to detect them. They’re usually noticed as a result of the irritation, discharge and pain that they cause. Ulcers are particularly important to treat urgently, as an infected ulcer can deteriorate rapidly and even cause rupture of the eye. If you suspect your cat may have an eye ulcer, you should see a vet urgently. These are just a few of the reasons your cat may need eye drops. So, if you see irritation, it’s important to consult your vet to find out the exact cause. Using the right eye drops for cats Never try and treat eye problems yourself without first seeing your vet. The vet will advise on the best course of treatment for your cat’s particular needs. Depending on the severity of the problem, different types of eye drops may be suggested. Antibiotic eye drops Your vet may suggest an eye drop with antibiotics if your cat has an infection in their eye or is at high risk of an infection. Antibiotic drops for cats’ eyes will prevent infections from establishing or spreading and treat existing infections too. It’s essential the right type of antibiotic drop is used. This needs to be effective against the infection being treated and safe for your cats’ eyes, so you should always consult with your vet to determine the best treatment plan. Lubricating eye drops For other causes of irritation or very mild scratches, lubricating eye drops may be recommended. These drops can help remove irritants, keep the area clean, and lubricate the surface of the eye to keep your cat comfortable. Other types of eye drops include medicated anti-inflammatory drops, which are used to treat some specific inflammatory eye conditions. Make sure you have the right eye drops for your cat’s illness, so you can swiftly treat the problem. It’s important to only use medication prescribed for your cat for the current issue, and not another pet. A dog’s eyes are different to a cat’s eyes, and both are different to humans’ eyes. Even if your cat has had drops in the past, they often have a very limited sell by date and are not effective after that date – or the issue might be totally different. It could cause more damage if the wrong eye drops are used. Similarly, some types of anti-inflammatory eye drop could be very harmful if used in an eye that’s scratched or ulcerated, so you should always check with your vet before applying any drops. Can you use human eye drops on cats? Cats’ eyes are very different to our own and you shouldn’t use human eye drops on them. While your vet may occasionally recommend specific human eye drops that are safe for cats, it can be dangerous to use other human eye drops on your pet, or to use any human eye drops without veterinary guidance. Whilst some irritations may not seem severe at first, eyes are very sensitive and it’s always important to go through your vet rather than trying to medicate at home. Where can I get eye drops for cats? Whilst you can buy eye drops from a variety of places, it’s best to talk to your vet first. This way, they can accurately diagnose what problem your cat may have and they will recommend the best medication to solve the issue. There are different eye drops for different illnesses, so if you are planning to buy something to ease irritation in your cat’s eyes, always check it with your vet first. Usually, you can get drops from them or else you can use the prescription to order from a veterinary pharmacy (usually online). The big advantage of getting them from your vet however is that you have them immediately and you can start treating your cat’s eyes without delay. How do I use cat eye drops? When your vet recommends eye drops, they may provide instructions on how to accurately use them. It’s best to have another person to help you apply eye drops. Make sure you also have cat treats ready to reward your pet. Here are some useful tips: 1. Get your cat used to the medicine Let your cat sniff and look at the bottle you will be using. The new smell may add stress and make the experience harder for both of you. Give them a treat too so they have a positive association with the bottle. 2. Get in a comfortable position Depending on your relationship with your cat and their personality, you can place your cat on your lap to apply the drops. But if not, find a safe place that your cat is comfortable with and make sure you have easy access to their eyes. 3. Apply the drops while keeping your cat’s head steady If you’re using an ointment, make sure you have squeezed a little out of the tube so it’s ready. Similarly, make sure the drops are ready to come out if you’re using drops. If you’re right-handed, put the finger and thumb of your left hand above and below your cat's eye and hold their eyelid open firmly. Use your other hand and from the side, bring the eyedrops close to their eye, but be careful not to touch the eye. Carefully squeeze the recommended amount onto the surface of the eye. 4. Treat time! Once done, give them a treat as a reward. What to do if you are struggling to apply your cat’s eye drop In most cases, with patience, care and the help of treats, you will be able to get drops into your cat’s eyes without too much trouble. However… Be realistic! While your vet is most concerned with giving you the best treatment option, they are not the one who has to get them in your cat’s eyes! You know how handleable your cat is and how tolerant – and even the best eye drops won’t work if you can’t get them near your cat! If you know this is going to be an issue, discuss this with your vet before starting treatment. Every cat is different and with discussion, you may be able to find a better treatment option. As an example, ointment is generally easier than drops. You do not want to stress your cat unnecessarily as stress can make symptoms worse. If you are struggling to apply eye drops or ointment to your cat, talk to your practice vet nurse. They are the experts at getting eye drops into a cat’s eyes and can usually give you some tips, if you really can’t manage this at all, don’t be embarrassed about it. Instead, talk to your vet straight away so you can see if there are any possible options. We hope you found this article on eye drops for cats useful. For more advice, read our guide on cat eye infections next.

Blood in a cat’s urine is a worrying sight. Also known as ‘haematuria’, it can be a sign of a few different urinary tract conditions which is why it’s important to get your cat checked by a vet. Our article covers what other symptoms to look out for, what it could mean for your cat and ways to prevent it. Symptoms to look out for when there’s blood in your cat’s urine Your cat’s urine will usually be red if there’s significant blood in it, although small amounts may be hard to see. Along with this, there are some other symptoms you may notice: • Straining when they urinate • More urination • Repeatedly going in and out of the litter tray • Vocalisation when in the litter tray • Your cat is drinking more water than usual If you notice more severe symptoms, such as the following, you should see a vet urgently: • Bleeding from the nose, gums, ears, rectum or eyes • Blood in vomit • Blood in faeces • Bruising on the skin If your cat is unable to urinate, which is more common in male cats, this is an emergency and you should contact your vet straight away. Why is there blood in your cat’s urine? If there is blood in your cat’s urine, you will need to contact your vet straight away. Below are some of the reasons why there might be blood in your cat’s urine, but your vet will be able to give you a proper diagnosis. Many of these conditions are grouped under the general descriptor of ‘feline lower urinary tract disease’ (FLUTD). This broad group of conditions includes bladder stones, feline idiopathic cystitis, urethral obstruction, urinary tract infections and more. Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) Feline idiopathic cystitis is a very common cause of blood in cats’ urine. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but it isn’t infectious and stress, obesity and dehydration play a role. Some cats are prone to repeated bouts of FIC, so it’s important to discuss prevention with your vet as well as managing any acute flareup. Urinary tract infections UTIs are much less common in cats than in dogs. Most cats that appear to have a UTI have FIC instead. UTIs are more common in senior cats and female felines, but they can sometimes happen in younger cats too. Make sure to contact your vet if you’re concerned. Bladder stones Bladder stones can cause straining and lead to blood in the urine. Pay attention to unusual vocalisation while they are in the litter tray, as this could be a sign of painful urination. Cats with bladder stones are at increased risk of infections and acute blockages. Bladder cancer Though uncommon, blood in your cat’s urine can also be a symptom of bladder cancer. Always check with your vet to find the best course of action. Trauma Inflammation of the kidneys or urinary tract can lead to blood in a cat’s urine. What’s the treatment for blood in a cat’s urine? Blood in a cat’s urine is usually a symptom of an underlying issue. So, the treatment depends on what’s causing it, which is why it’s so important to get it checked out by a vet. Treatment for bladder stones is very different compared to the treatment needed for feline idiopathic cystitis, for example. Your vet will be able to diagnose your cat and give you a treatment plan. Can blood in a cat’s urine be prevented? Some conditions that cause blood to show up in their urine are unpreventable. But there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of FLUTD: 1. Offer your cat a well-balanced diet Ensuring your cat has a well-balanced diet is super important for their health. The right nutrients in their cat food might help prevent them from developing certain health issues. 2. Make sure they are hydrated Your cat always needs access to clean and fresh water to ensure they’re staying hydrated. They get water from their wet cat food too, so if your cat isn’t a big drinker, this can help to reduce their risk. Cats prefer to drink water away from their food and litter tray, so positioning water bowls appropriately can help. Less concentrated urine is less likely to produce bladder stones and can help to lower the risk of FIC and other conditions. 3. Reduce stress Stress is a factor that can affect your cat’s physical health and lead to FLUTD. Making sure your cat has a cosy, safe place to rest, a clean litter box to relieve themselves (you should have as many litter trays as you have cats, plus one extra), a space to play stimulating cat games, and a clean place to eat are all factors that reduce cat anxiety and stress. If you’re concerned about your cat, make sure to contact your vet straight away. It’s not a good idea to assume your cat’s condition will improve on its own if there’s blood in their urine. You’ll need a vet’s professional opinion. We hope this guide on understanding why there is blood in your cat’s urine was helpful. It’s a worrying sight, so it’s important to contact your vet promptly. Next, see our guide on unusual cat symptoms to keep an eye on for further help on cat health.

Understanding Weight Changes in Ageing Cats First things first, we need to understand that weight changes in ageing cats is normal, and they often occur in two distinct stages. As cats enter their senior years, they may become less active, which can lead to weight gain if we don’t adjust their diet, same as with dogs. However, as cats become geriatric, they tend to lose weight – both fat and muscle. This loss can be due to several factors, from dental problems, that make eating painful, to a decrease in their sense of smell and taste, as well as changes in their metabolism. Studies have shown that after the age of 11, a cat's metabolic rate can actually increase, while their digestion and ability to absorb nutrients decrease. Many cats over 12 struggle to digest fat (up to a third) and protein, which can lead to weight loss even if they're eating the same amount. This is why it's important to consider a cat's age when feeding them. Energy provision may need to be slightly decreased from 7 to 11 years old, but then increased from 12 years old onwards to account for these metabolic changes. In some cases, senior cats may actually need more food after the age of 12 to maintain a healthy weight. Common Causes of Weight Gain and Loss in Elderly Cats Weight gain in older cats can often come down to them not burning as much energy coupled with us feeding them too much. It's pretty similar to humans—less exercise and more snacking equals a bit of weight gain. This could potentially lead to having an overweight cat, which is why it's so important to monitor their food intake and ensure they're getting just the right amount for their age and activity level. On the other hand, if they're losing weight, it could be a warning sign for health problems like hyperthyroidism or kidney disease. If you notice your cat is eating the same amount but still losing weight, it is important to go to the vet so they can run tests to rule out any underlying health issues. Health Conditions Affecting Senior Cats' Weight Quite a few health conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can cause weight changes in older cats. It's really important to keep an eye on your cat's weight because it can be an early sign of these conditions and an indication that you need to talk to your vet. Osteoarthritis, a common concern in older cats, can also contribute to weight loss. Due to joint pain, especially in the neck and shoulders, your cat might struggle to bend down to its feeding bowl. To help your arthritic cat, consider using slightly raised food and water bowls placed in easily accessible areas. Dietary Adjustments If your cat has become overweight, it is important to take veterinary advice on how to manage this through their diet. It isn’t just a case of just cutting their food – as that can easily lead to sometimes dangerous nutritional imbalances. When it comes to feeding, there's no one-size-fits-all, especially for our older cats. They need a diet tailored to their age, with protein that's easy to digest and the right balance of nutrients. That's why we at Purina have developed special formulas of senior cat food designed for the dietary needs of senior cats, which can make a big difference in managing their weight. Portion Control, Meal Scheduling & Low-Calorie Cat Food It's not just about what our older cats eat, but also how much and how often. Smaller, more frequent meals can help their metabolism and keep their weight in check. It's kind of like having several little afternoon snacks instead of one big dinner. And when it comes to those meals or snacks, choosing low-calorie food options can be a real game-changer. Low-calorie cat foods can still be tasty and satisfying for your ageing cat, but they help prevent unwanted weight gain. So, it's not just about feeding them less, but also making smart choices about what you're feeding them. It does of course become more challenging if you have an outdoor cat who may still hunt for snacks – or visit neighbours’ feeding bowls! Nutritional Requirements of Senior Overweight Cats As cats age, their nutritional needs shift. They might need more fibre for healthy digestion and less high-calorie food to prevent weight wain. They may also require more water-soluble vitamins like B and C, as these are not stored in the body and need to be replenished regularly. However, unlike some other nutrients, protein intake shouldn't necessarily decrease with age, unless specifically recommended by your vet due to health concerns identified through blood tests. Maintaining a sufficient protein level is crucial for senior cats, as it helps prevent muscle loss and supports their unique metabolism as obligate carnivores. On top of that, senior cats may benefit from foods enriched with omega-3 fatty acids for joint health and antioxidants for immune support. It's not just about feeding them less but feeding them the right stuff. So, when choosing a diet for your senior cat, it's important to consider all these factors and choose a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Encouraging Physical Activity Suitable Exercises and Play for Senior Cats Our senior cats might not be the Olympic athletes they used to be, but they still need to keep moving. Gentle play and exercises that don't put too much pressure on their joints are perfect. Think more like a relaxed walk in the garden rather than charging round after a high energy toy. Tips for Motivating Older Cats to Stay Active Getting an older cat to exercise can sometimes be as tough as getting a teenager to tidy their room! It's all about finding what motivates them, whether that's a favourite toy, easily accessible cat trees, enrichment feeding games, a sprinkle of catnip, or some interactive playtime with their favourite human—you! If you have an indoor cat but do have outdoor space, you could even consider building a catio – an outdoor area (ideally attached to the house with a cat flap so they can access it at will) with different heights, places to snooze, and interesting things to explore. This should be fully enclosed with chicken wire or similar and this will encourage them to explore outside, get some sun, watch the world go by and move around a bit more while keeping them safe and secure. Monitoring and Maintaining Healthy Weight Regular visits to the vet are super important for taking care of older cats. They monitor your cat's weight and give you professional advice that's just right for your furry friend's needs. Signs of Healthy Cat Weight vs. Concerning Symptoms Knowing the difference between a healthy weight and when to start worrying is important. Here’s how to tell if your cat is thriving: • Visible Waist: Look down at your cat when standing. A healthy cat will have a slight indentation above their hips, forming a visible waist. Long-haired cats might require closer inspection. • Rib Feel: Gently run your hand along your cat's side. You should be able to feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat. If the ribs are difficult to feel or completely undetectable, your cat might be overweight. If, however, you can feel more ribs than usual, this could be a sign that they are losing weight. Do these checks weekly so you can detect any changes early. Remember: These are just general guidelines. Every cat is unique, and their ideal weight can vary based on breed, age, and activity level. If you're unsure about your cat's weight or have any concerns, don't hesitate to schedule a check-up with your vet. They can guide you on appropriate weight management strategies and rule out any potential health issues. So, to wrap it up, managing an older cat's weight is all about understanding their changing needs and adjusting to them. It's a mix of the right diet, regular exercise, and keeping a close eye on their health. With a little knowledge and a lot of love, we can ensure our senior cats live out their best nine lives.

As your cat grows and ages, over time they may become a little less agile than before. With older cats you might see a drop off in physical activity and an increase in sleeping. While your cat may be in overall great shape for their age, it’s important to look out for any signs of joint problems and arthritis. This condition does affect cats and can be very uncomfortable, so keep on the lookout for the signs of cat arthritis. What is arthritis in cats? Arthritis is a condition that occurs as their joints naturally age and the cartilage material between the bones deteriorates and reduces in flexibility. This causes the bones in their joints to rub together, resulting in stiffness and pain. Arthritis in cats is quite common and according to Cats Protection, around 80% of cats over the age of 10 have some form of the disease. What causes arthritis in cats? Arthritis in cats is caused when damage occurs to your cat’s joints, making them painful to move. Most commonly, arthritis in cats is a result of the ageing process as the cartilage between the joints deteriorates and reduces in flexibility. However, younger cats can also get arthritis if they have suffered from an injury or infection in the joint. The most common type of arthritis in cats is osteoarthritis, which happens as a result of repeated wear and tear of joints, and can also develop as a result of a previous injury.

It’s a sad reality that our furry friends are prone to getting some of the same diseases as us, and that includes cancer. Cancer in cats is less common than it is in dogs, but when they develop it it’s more likely to be fatal. Learn what to be on the lookout for and how to catch it early with our guide. Cancer in cats is an unfortunate reality that can affect our feline friends. While it’s less common than it is for dogs to get cancer, when cats develop the mutation it’s more likely to be serious as they’re masters of hiding their discomfort, therefore it’s often caught later. If you suspect your cat has cancer, it can be a truly scary time and you may fear that you might lose your pet. To help you help your pet, we’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about cat cancer symptoms and treatments. What is a tumour and when is it cancerous? A tumour is an uncontrolled growth of cells that forms a lump. Sometimes these lumps can disrupt organs and make them not function properly and when this happens, it can be incredibly serious for your pet. There are two types of tumours – benign and malignant. Benign tumours stay where they are first formed, meaning they are not actually cancerous and are generally relatively straightforward to treat, depending on the placement. The other type of tumour is called a malignant tumour, these are cancerous and can be aggressive and invasive as they spread throughout the body. These types can be serious and may be quite difficult to treat. Types of cancer in cats It may surprise you to learn that our cats can actually suffer from many of the same cancers as humans. A few of the most common types of cancer in cats are as follows:

Cats are incredibly clean creatures, but sometimes they may need a little bit of help cleaning those hard to reach places like their ears. Find out how to clean a cats ears and what you should be looking out for with our handy guide. Cats usually do a really good job of keeping themselves clean, but sometimes they may need added help in places that are hard to reach, like their ears. It’s not easy for your cat to give the inside of their ears a thorough clean so it’s usually a good idea to keep an eye on them and clean them when necessary. It’s important that cats’ ears are kept clean in order to avoid ear infections and other possible problems, but many cat owners don’t know how to do it. Keep reading for our top tips and advice for cleaning a cats ears and what you should be on the lookout for. How often should you clean a cat’s ears? You should always make sure to regularly check inside of your cat’s ears so that you can be on the lookout for any problems or a possible infection. It’s best to incorporate this into their grooming routine and make sure to look inside their ears at least once a week. It will depend on your cat’s habits when it comes to how often you should clean their ears. If you have a house cat you may find that you rarely need to clean their ears, whereas if you have a cat that’s always getting up to mischief outside, they may need more regular cleaning to remove dirt they’ve picked up. It’s generally a good idea to start doing regular checks when your cat is a kitten to get them used to having their ears handled, otherwise they may be nervous and this can make cleaning a cats ears a difficult task.

Having kittens is a very exciting and emotional time for you and your cat. Before you can welcome bundles of fur into your home, you need to know how to tell if your cat is pregnant, and what you can do to ensure her pregnancy is as happy as possible. It’s important to remember when planning to have kittens that your cat and her litter will have demands that you will need to be prepared to handle. To help you support your pet throughout her pregnancy and labour, we’ve covered everything you need to know about expectant cats. Cat pregnancy Much like us, cats have periods of peak fertility when they can become pregnant - this is known as being in season or in heat. Cats can come into season about once every three weeks, so there are plenty of opportunities for your pet to fall pregnant! If you’d like to avoid an unexpected litter of kittens, we recommend neutering your cat before her first season, as she can become pregnant very easily after that point. As bringing up a litter can be stressful for your cat, and expensive for you, we recommend leaving breeding to the experts if possible. How long is a cat pregnant Cat pregnancy normally lasts between 63 to 67 days, but it can be tough to know exactly how long a cat is pregnant for. The cat gestation period can vary from as short as 61 days to as long as 72 days. Your cat (queen) often won’t show any physical symptoms of pregnancy until she is a few weeks into her term. If you think that your cat is pregnant, take her to the vets for confirmation. If you would like to know how to tell if a cat is pregnant yourself, there are several physical signs that you should be able to spot after two or three weeks have passed. How to tell if your cat is pregnant • After approximately 15-18 days of a cat pregnancy, you may notice that your pet’s nipples become enlarged and red – this is known as ‘pinking-up’. • Similar to morning sickness in humans, your pregnant queen may go through a stage of vomiting. If you notice that her sickness becomes frequent, or she is at all unwell in any other way, contact your vet. • Your queen’s tummy will start to swell, but avoid touching it so you don't risk hurting mum or her unborn kittens. There can be other causes behind abdominal swelling, so monitor your cat closely for any signs of illness and consult your vet if you are worried. • A mum-to-be will gradually gain between 1-2 kg (depending on the number of kittens she is carrying) - this is a strong sign that she is pregnant. • Queens tend to have an increased appetite later in their pregnancy, which will also contribute towards her weight gain. An increased appetite could also be a sign of worms or illness, so double check with your vet to confirm. • Your pregnant cat may act more maternal, meaning that she purrs more and seeks extra fuss and attention from you. • Some vet practices can diagnose cat pregnancy using ultrasound, sometimes as early as 15 days into her term. The vet may also be able to give you an indication of how many kittens your cat is expecting by day 40 of her pregnancy. Bear in mind that in cat pregnancy, a larger kitten can obscure other smaller kittens in the womb, so you could have more kittens than expected!

Cat seizures have many causes and can often occur quite suddenly. Find out what you can do to make the experience less stressful for you and your pet. Cat seizures can be a symptom of many different diseases but are one of the more?unusual illness symptoms?in cats. It can be alarming the first time your cat has a seizure, but by following the advice set out in this article, we hope you’ll have the confidence to remain calm and seek veterinary advice when necessary. Keep reading to find out more about cat seizures and epilepsy. What are cat seizures? Cat seizures manifest as unusual behaviours such as collapse, twitching, gnashing of the teeth and tremors. During a seizure, there are sudden, abnormal electrical impulses that disrupt the normal processes in the brain. This can result in nerve stimulation elsewhere in the body, resulting in the unusual behaviours that are often associated with seizures. Seizures in cats are a sign of abnormal brain functioning and are not actually a disease diagnosis in itself. However, seizures can also be caused by problems other than brain abnormalities. Kidney problems, liver disease or low sugar levels can also lead to seizures in cats. There are various categories of seizure, and often an episode will be considered generalised or partial. A generalised seizure involves both halves of the brain, whereas a partial seizure will involve a specific brain region. What is cat epilepsy? Cat epilepsy is a condition characterised by seizures that happen repeatedly and are caused by disruptions in brain activity. If your pet has experienced a single episode in their life, they are unlikely to be diagnosed with cat epilepsy. Epilepsy in cats should not be confused with the genetic condition called idiopathic epilepsy which usually affects both dogs and humans, but is a fairly rare illness in felines. Idiopathic epilepsy also manifests through seizures, but in this case, no abnormalities can be detected in the brain or anywhere else in the body. Cat seizure symptoms The signs of a cat seizure will vary depending on the cause and type of episode. General seizures typically have a sudden onset and last up to three minutes. They can be alarming to watch as you might see symptoms such as shaking, loss of consciousness, twitching, or urination.

Just like their personalities, each cat’s dietary needs are slightly different – and sometimes, this means they need an altogether different kind of food. Luckily, there are lots of options to choose from. Over the past twenty years some great high quality, specialised pet food formulas have been created for animals with particular needs. For example, Purina has its own range of prescription diets that your vet might recommend if your cat has a condition that would benefit from dietary management. Whatever you go for, some of these pet foods support treatment over a limited period of time (until the condition is resolved), whereas other special food for cats are designed to help your pet for life (for example, if they have a chronic condition). From cat weight loss formulas to diets for cats with sensitive digestion and more, there’s plenty out there to meet their special requirements.

No pet owner wants a time to come when they have to think about cat amputation, but if your cat’s had an accident or is unwell and surgery can stop their pain, it can be the kindest thing to do. Amputation sounds drastic but it’s a much more common procedure than it once was and, although it involves major surgery, disabled cats can cope very well without a tail or on three legs, once they’ve had time to readapt. So there’s no reason why your handicapped cat shouldn’t live a life that’s filled with as much love and happiness as any of their other feline friends. Cat tail amputation When might my cat need their tail amputated? As cats' tails are long and energetic, they’re prone to accidents, and injuries. Your vet may be able to treat some of the less serious problems but in some cases they may decide that a severely damaged tail needs to be amputated. How will tail amputation affect my cat? Cat tail amputation is a relatively straightforward operation, and although your furry friend may take some time getting used to living without a tail, you can feel reassured that the operation is unlikely to have a long-term impact on their behaviour. Limb amputation in cats When might my cat need a limb amputated? Your vet will recommend limb amputation if, for example, your cat’s leg has been very badly injured in an accident or if they’ve discovered a cancerous tumour on a limb, and removing it completely can stop the illness from spreading. How will limb amputation affect my cat? Losing a leg might sound like a drastic measure but many cats continue to live a very happy life on three limbs without any problems. After the operation, your cat will need to recover from the surgery and then learn how to walk and run again, as their weight distribution will have changed. Your vet will be able to give you lots of help and advice on how you can both cope during these first few weeks.

Of course not all cats go blind, and if they do they can still lead a wonderful, fun-filled life. However, if you realise your cat is going blind, there are a few changes you should make to help them out. Your cat has a wonderful life with all the love and attention you give them, whether they spend their time prowling the great outdoors or prefer to snuggle up on your lap in the house. Despite your care, however, there are some things you can’t control as an owner, including the possibility of blindness in your cat. What are the causes of cat blindness? Your cat may start to lose their sight for a variety of reasons, including old age. Inherited causes of cat blindness are less common than they are in dogs, but they tend to occur more in purebred cats. For example, if you are lucky enough to have a lovely, silky Abyssinian cat, you are more likely to see blindness caused by progressive retinal atrophy (although a genetic test is available for this). Medical causes for adult or senior cats losing their sight are more common than genetic ones. These include trauma, neurological problems, and high blood pressure. Cats compensate for impaired vision by relying more on their remaining senses, especially smell. How can I tell if my cat is blind? If your older cat loses their sight, chances are it happens so gradually you won’t notice anything until the loss is total. This isn’t your fault – cats can compensate for their impaired vision by relying on their other senses. This is particularly true of their sense of smell, which is why they might happily wander up to you when you serve their meals, even if they can’t see properly.