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Cats suffer from a number of illnesses, many of which are difficult if not impossible for us to detect. The problem is further complicated because many of us with indoor cats don't take them to the vet for regular checkups.

Fortunately, most cats are very healthy, but there are several major illnesses that all cat owners should be aware of and lookout for.

- Bladder/Urinary Tract Problems

Urinary tract infections are more common in cats that many owners realize, and what we consider to be a behavioral problem (spraying furniture, walls or carpet) can actually be an uncomfortable disease. Other urinary problems can include tumors, crystals, stones or other blockages. Apart from urinating everywhere but the box, in it's advanced stages the symptoms can include a loose of appetite, weakness and what even what appears to be fainting. You may spot blood in the urine, or you may not.

This is such a common problem, there are special kitty litters designed to detect protein in the urine, which indicates the presence of an infection.

If left untreated, bladder problems can and effect the kidneys as well. The symptoms of kidney disease are similar to a bladder infection, although you may also notice excessive drinking, vomiting, weight loss and difficulty urinating. Kidney problems and kidney failure are also a common problem as cats age.

- Diabetes

Cats can suffer from both type 1 (insufficient insulin produced ) and type 2 (body doesn't react well to insulin) diabetes - the result in both types is high blood sugar levels. The initial symptom is typically weight gain, but as the disease progresses, the cat will begin to loose weight. Other symptoms include excessive urination, excessive eating, weakness or a specific weakness in the rear legs.

- Feline Distemper (Panleukopenia)

Most common in urban areas and wherever large numbers of unvaccinated animals are kept together (pet stores, shelters or catterys). Cats of any age can be effected, but the condition is particularly dangerous in immune-compromised animals, the very young and the very old. Symptoms include depression, lack of appetite, fever, vomiting, diarrhea and anemia.

- Feline Leukemia - Feline AIDS

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are retroviruses that compromise the immune system. The real problems come from the secondary conditions that the cat's system can't properly deal with, including cancers, digestive problems, susceptibility to infection, seizures, blindness, behavioral

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