The Mystery of Cats

First, let me report some sad news. Our dear mascot and leonine friend at the hospital, Thomas, passed away in his sleep on April 25. He is greatly missed, but his death highlights also why cats’ health can be such a mystery.

We suspect that a hidden heart condition was the cause. But he hid any heart concerns, like many cats, in that there was no audible abnormality at his examinations and his last lab results were also normal. We know that large health studies reveal that one out of five cats has or will develop a heart condition and that several breeds, including Maine Coon Cats, have a higher incidence rate.

So, what is an owner of a beloved feline to do? Ideally, felines should be examined by their veterinarian at least once yearly during their prime years under age eight, and then be seen twice yearly thereafter. And, at some point during their prime years, baseline blood work should be run and include a cardiac screening test for enzyme (proBNP) that is released by damaged heart cells. Then, annual screening should be done once a kitty is entering its senior years.

If a murmur – an audible change in heart sounds – is heard, then a cardiac ultrasound can be performed to assess what type and degree of heart disease is present. Like many conditions, heart disease in cats, when found and especially if found early, can be managed with beneficial medications.

What other health issues can our felines hide from us? Think indoor cats are immune from parasites? Think again because they are just as susceptible to intestinal parasites as dogs and being indoors is no protection. We humans or the household dog can track in intestinal parasites. Additionally, more than 15 percent of potting soils contain intestinal parasite eggs. I don’t know about you, but my own cats are notorious for rooting around in freshly repotted plants.

Because of their solitary nature, cats instinctively hide the symptoms of developing illness much better than dogs or people. But key hints can be found by monitoring the litter box and the food bowl. If a routine behavior has changed, your kitty may be trying to tell you something.

Litter box use or a sudden lack of use can mean that there could be a bladder issue such as infection, crystals or stones forming, or stress-induced bladder wall inflammation. The cat urinating on your daughter’s soccer uniform isn’t being vengeful, but may be trying to show you that something’s not right.

Those cat eyes peering at you from across the room or standing on your chest demanding food now represent a creature that has learned to manipulate us to their bidding. Allow them to continue their reign over your household by ensuring their good health with proper nutrition, lots of play and environmental enrichment, and, of course, regular check ups with your veterinarian.

Dr. Margot can be reached at parkhillvet.com