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Common Cat Diseases - Part 1

© Caroline Anderson

After writing about pet loss and talking with a few friends, I realize that it's important to write a bit about different cat diseases. This is the first article of a 2-part series about health conditions that affect cats.

Viral infections are probably the most common cause of death amoung cats. None of the viruses in this article can be transmitted to humans or even to dogs. One of the most common illnesses is Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). This disease is a contagious and often fatal virus in cats. It seems to affect younger cats, less than 3 years of age. Veterinarians are not completely certain of how it is spread, but it does require contact with another cat or body fluids. It tends to take on several forms - in some cats it appears as a mild respiratory infection. In other cases, it attacks the organs of the abdomin - the liver, kidneys or even brain. In a few, it becomes a chronic condition. These cats do lead a fairly normal life if they survive, but they should be kept away from other cats if at all possible.

So what are the symptoms of FIP? The symptoms can mimic the same as many common infections, one or more of the following: nasal congestion, eye discharge, lack of appetite (weight loss too), lethargy, fever, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, dark urine (liver failure), labored breathing (fluid in the lungs). There is no known cure for FIP, but there is a vaccination. Since kittens are threatened by FIP, they should be vaccinated as soon as possible.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is an AIDS-like disease that usually attacks cats with already weakened immune systems. It tends to be more common in older cats, especially males who fight other cats, since it can be spread by saliva, blood, and other body fluids. Again, feline viruses cannot be spread to humans or mammals outside of the feline family.

Some of the symptoms of FIV include: anemia, fever, loss of appetite, and pain (especially while eating). There is no vaccine and limited therapies (AZT - a drug "cocktail" used in AIDS therapy is sometimes prescribed). The best prevention - keep your cat indoors at all times.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is another newer viral disease. Like other FIV and FIP, this condition makes cats more suseptible to infections because it depresses the immune system. FeLV can be transmitted easily through body fluids, feces, and even milk. Sharing food bowls and biting are common infection methods. Cats can also be carriers without being infected themselves. Many infected cats do recover with treatment. Without treatment, survival can be low.

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