by Gillian Taber

Created on: January 17, 2011

Cat owners are used to dealing with common cat problems such as fleas and the skin problems flea infestation can cause. When it comes to dealing with some of the major diseases that affect cats help is required. The following list of diseases and symptoms is given for information and to help you decide if your cat should be receiving treatment. If in any doubt about a sick cat, take it to your nearest vet or free animal shelter.

1 – Feline Leukaemia – Known as FeLV, this is one of the major causes of cat death. It is similar to both FIV (see below) and human HIV in that it attacks the immune system. Cats are likely to die from associated causes rather than the FeLV itself because it produces a wide variety of illnesses, from blood diseases to cancer and the weakening of the immune system leaves a cat open to many other infections. FeLV is transmitted via bites and fluids such as nasal, saliva, urine, faeces and milk of nursing mothers. Although FeLV is ultimately fatal, cats can be treated and given drugs to prolong and improve their quality of life.

Symptoms do not usually appear until some weeks after initial infection and the symptoms tend to get progressively worse the longer the cat is infected. Symptoms may include – weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, loss of coat condition, inflamed gums and gum infections, bladder infections, persistent diarrhoea and seizures. A visit to the vet and a blood test is the best way to deal with the situation.

2 - Feline Immunodeficiency Virus – Known as FIV, this illness is closely associated with FeLV. One major difference is that FIV is most commonly transmitted through infected wounds, normally brought about by biting during cat fights. Cats kept inside and away from other cats are not likely to catch the virus. Unlike FeLV, FIV takes a long time to develop and show symptoms, some cats never displaying symptoms despite being infected. The prognosis is not good, but like FeLV, infected cats can be treated and helped to live happy lives.

Symptoms may be an initial and general enlarging of the lymph nodes accompanied by a fever, but after that the signs will most like disappear. The most telling signs will likely be a slow and progressive decline in the cat's general health. They may well have periods of health interspersed with recurring illnesses. When symptoms do appear they are almost identical to those of FeLV and include – Poor overall condition, poor appetite,

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