Typical Cat Behavior When Healthy
Cats are known for being independent and aloof. They are solitary creatures by nature and do not always seek out human interaction or affection. When healthy, cats enjoy spending time alone grooming, playing with toys, or exploring their environment. According to resources from Best Friends and Wellness Pet Food, healthy cats maintain normal levels of activity and energy. They show enthusiasm at meal times and during play. A healthy cat’s coat will be glossy and vibrant.
It’s normal for a healthy cat to sleep often throughout the day – upwards of 16 hours. Cats also dedicate a good amount of time to self-grooming and keeping clean. Exploration and observing their surroundings are key activities. Healthy cats will confidently jump and climb where they are able. Overall, the typical healthy cat is content, engaged, and energetic in bursts throughout the day.
Sources:
https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/signs-healthy-cat-and-possible-symptoms-cat-illness
https://www.wellnesspetfood.com/blog/signs-of-healthy-cat
Signs of Illness in Cats
Some behaviors that indicate illness in cats include changes in appetite, activity levels, grooming habits, and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, a decrease in appetite or water intake is one of the most common signs of illness in cats. Cats who go from energetic and playful to sleeping more and showing fatigue or lethargy may be unwell. Neglecting grooming and hygiene habits like fur matting or litter box issues also signals sickness.
Vomiting and diarrhea frequently occur with illnesses and may indicate gastrointestinal problems or other conditions. Episodes of vomiting or diarrhea, especially if recurring or combined with appetite issues and lethargy, warrant medical attention. Cats also sometimes vomit hairballs as part of their normal grooming process, but excessive vomiting of any kind always requires investigation into the cause.
In addition to changes in everyday behaviors, specific symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, limping, eye discharge, nasal discharge, or sensitivity to touch may point to underlying illness. Any deviation from a cat’s normal balanced state of health should be addressed by a veterinarian.
Why Cats Hide When Sick
When cats are sick, they tend to withdraw and hide away due to their instinct to conceal any vulnerability from potential predators. In the wild, showing signs of weakness or illness would make cats an easy target. Domestic cats still have this inherent survival instinct even though they live indoors and have no real predators.
Cats also hide when they are feeling ill because sickness saps their energy and diminishes their appetite. With less energy, cats are not as interested in physical activity or social interaction. They retreat to a safe, quiet, and comfortable hiding spot to rest and recover. Cats prefer to be alone when sick so they can sleep without disturbance. Even minor illnesses can make cats lethargic.
According to https://www.tiktok.com/discover/why-do-cats-hide-when-sick, hiding is a natural feline instinct to mask any vulnerability and conserve energy when unwell. Domestic cats still exhibit this innate behavior inherited from their wild ancestors.
Providing Care for a Sick Cat
Caring for a sick cat requires patience and sticking to your cat’s normal routine as much as possible. Make sure your cat has easy access to food, water, and litter at all times. Cats can quickly become dehydrated when ill, so providing fresh, clean water frequently is important. Canned food or adding water to dry food can help increase fluid intake. Scoop litter boxes at least once daily to keep them clean.
It’s crucial to get veterinary care for any persistent illness in cats. Make an appointment as soon as you notice symptoms continuing more than a day or two. Your vet will examine your cat and recommend treatment which may include medications, fluids, special foods, or other therapies. Follow your vet’s advice closely to help your cat recover. Providing prescribed medications and care at home helps your cat heal.
Make sure to monitor your cat’s symptoms and call your vet if they worsen or if your cat stops eating or drinking. With attentive home care and veterinary treatment, most cats can fully recover from illness.
Creating a Safe Space
When a cat is sick, it is important to create a safe space where they can recover in peace. This space should be a confined area that limits stimuli and makes the cat feel secure. According to The Spruce Pets, “A safe room should be a small space, preferably with a door. A bathroom, large closet, or smaller guest room are good choices for safe rooms.”
The safe space should contain familiar smells and objects to comfort the cat. Their bed, toys, litter box, food and water bowls should be placed in the room. Per CatFriendly.com, “Most cats prefer the safe space be big enough to only fit themselves, have sides around it, and be raised off the ground.” Providing hiding spots like cardboard boxes, cat tunnels, and elevated surfaces can help sick cats feel more secure.
The environment should be quiet and calm. Loud noises and too much activity can stress out an ill feline. Make sure the room is away from busy household areas. Draw the blinds or curtains to block outdoor noises according to SurePetCare.com’s advice on “Creating a safe space for your cat to hide.” Maintaining a peaceful atmosphere aids recovery.
Signs a Cat Needs Social Comfort
When a cat is sick, it may exhibit certain behaviors to indicate it wants comfort and companionship from its owner. Some of the most common signs a sick cat is seeking social interaction include:
Meowing and vocalizing more frequently, especially when the owner is nearby. A sick cat may meow persistently to get the owner’s attention. This is a clear sign kitty wants company and reassurance.
Following the owner around the house. Whereas a healthy cat often keeps to itself, a sick cat will trail its owner from room to room. This clingy behavior reflects a desire for attention and care.
Seeking physical affection and comfort. Purring, rubbing against legs, and kneading or treading with front paws are affectionate gestures that provide soothing contact for a sick cat.
In essence, any behavior outside a cat’s normal routine could signal it needs extra companionship while ill. Tuning into these social cues allows owners to provide much-needed comfort and relief.
Providing Social Comfort
When a cat is sick, they often appreciate some gentle social comfort to help them feel secure. Here are some tips for providing soothing support without overwhelming your cat:
Try sitting nearby your cat without forcing direct interaction. Your quiet company can be reassuring. Speak in soft, calm voices to soothe them. Give positive reinforcement by saying “good kitty” or gently stroking their head if they seem receptive.
Avoid over-stimulation that could stress your cat. Pet them lightly only in their favorite spots. Keep handling to a minimum if they seem distressed. Don’t force them to accept too much attention.
Respect your cat’s boundaries. If they hiss or swat, give them space. Watch their body language for cues. They may appreciate affection at times and then need rest. Give them breaks between interactions.
With gentle care and respect for their needs, you can provide important comfort to your sick feline friend. Just be sure to let them take the lead on when they want attention.
When to Give a Sick Cat Space
Sometimes when a cat is not feeling well, they prefer to be alone. Signs that a sick cat wants space include agitation, aggression like hissing or swatting, withdrawing to hide, and over-grooming. These behaviors indicate your cat is feeling vulnerable and wants to be left alone.
It’s best not to force contact if your cat is displaying those behaviors. Allow them to retreat to a safe, comfortable place where they can rest and recover. Provide easy access to food, water, litter, and any medications so they can care for themselves. Check on them periodically, but don’t disturb them if they hiss or swat at you. Cats prefer to endure illness in solitude.
Give your cat the alone time they need while sick. Their behavior will guide you on when they are ready for contact again. If they come out of hiding and rub against you, that’s your cue they want comfort. Respect their space when requested, but be ready to provide affection when accepted.
Returning to Normal
As your cat recovers from illness, you can expect to see their appetite and activity levels gradually improve. Cats will typically start to eat and drink more as they regain strength. You may notice them venturing out of their hiding spots more frequently and wanting to interact with you and other pets. Signs that your cat is feeling better include:
- Increasing interest in food and water, finishing most meals
- Higher energy, moving around more, exploring their environment
- Less time sleeping and hiding, more time socializing
- Initiating play and acting restless if confined
- Grooming and cleaning themselves regularly again
- Using the litter box consistently
When a cat’s playful personality reemerges and they seem interested in their favorite toys, activities, and people, you can relax knowing they are on the mend. Make sure to ease them back into a normal routine gradually. Provide ample rest between play sessions and don’t overwhelm them. With time and care, most cats can make a full recovery.
Preventative Care
Taking preventative measures is one of the best ways to keep your cat healthy and avoid illness. Here are some key aspects of preventative care for cats:
Annual vet exams are crucial to monitor your cat’s overall health and catch any potential issues early. Your vet will check your cat’s weight, coat, teeth, ears, eyes, heart, stomach, and more during an exam. Your vet may also recommend yearly bloodwork or other tests as your cat ages.
Vaccines help prevent infectious diseases that can make your cat very sick. Core vaccines like rabies, panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus are recommended for all cats. Your vet may also suggest vaccines for feline leukemia, Bordetella, Chlamydia, or FIV depending on your cat’s risk factors. Vaccines should be updated yearly.
Parasite prevention guards against intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Options include monthly topical treatments and chewable tablets. Work with your vet to choose the right parasite preventatives for your cat and administer them year-round.
Proper nutrition from high-quality cat food supports your cat’s immune system and overall health. Feed an age-appropriate diet and avoid over or underfeeding. Provide constant access to clean, fresh water.
Regular exercise through interactive play and environmental enrichment keeps your cat’s mind and body engaged. Set aside 15-20 minutes 2-3 times a day for playtime and provide puzzle feeders, scratching posts, cat trees, and other enrichments.
Following these preventative care guidelines will help set your cat up for a long, happy, and healthy life. Be sure to partner with your veterinarian to customize a plan for your feline companion.
