How to Know if Your Ragdoll Cat is Sick?

10 Signs Your Ragdoll Cat May Be Sick

By Jennie @ Ragdoll Cats World

August 7, 2022

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Ragdoll Cats are known for being independent and low-maintenance pets, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get sick. Like humans, cats can experience a wide range of health problems, from minor issues like a cold to more serious conditions like cancer.

Sometimes it can be so hard to tell when something is wrong with your Ragdoll. Often, cats will mask their illness until it becomes too severe to ignore. Here are 10 signs that your Ragdoll cat may be sick.

 

Change in behavior

Cats are very good at hiding when they are not feeling well. One of the first signs that a cat is sick is a change in behavior. The cat may become inactive and sleep more than usual, or it may be more active than normal. Cats may stop using their litter box or start urinating and defecating outside the litter box. They may also stop grooming themselves, which can lead to hairballs and skin problems. If you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior, consult your veterinarian.

 

Lethargy or sleeping more than normal

If your cat is lethargic or sleeping more than normal, it could be a sign that they are sick. While cats sleep more than dogs, if your kitty is usually an active cat and is now spending most of its time napping, it’s time to take them to the vet. Lethargy can be a sign of many different illnesses, such as Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), or feline leukemia (FeLV). Other causes of lethargy in cats can include liver or kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, or parasites. If your cat has been sleeping more than usual for more than a week, it’s best to take them to the vet for a check-up.

 

Eating less or not at all

A cat that is not eating may be sick. There are many reasons why a cat may not want to eat, including sickness, dental problems, or nausea. If a cat does not eat for more than two days, it is important to take the cat to the veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to determine the cause of the cat’s lack of appetite and recommend treatment.

 

Vomiting or diarrhea

If your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea, it may be sick. Vomiting and diarrhea can be signs of many different diseases, so it’s important to get your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Some of the diseases that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats include intestinal parasites, viral infections, and bacterial infections. Cats that are infected with a virus or bacteria may also have a fever, and they may become lethargic or lose their appetite.

 

Weight loss or gain

One of the most common signs your cat may be sick is if there is a sudden change in their weight – either losing or gaining weight rapidly. If your cat has been steadily losing weight for more than two weeks, it’s time to take her to the vet. This could be a sign of something as simple as a dietary issue, or as serious as cancer. On the other hand, if your cat has been putting on weight at an alarming rate, she may be suffering from diabetes, liver disease, or another health problem.

10 Signs Your Ragdoll Cat May Be Sick

Changes in coat condition

Most cat owners are familiar with the telltale signs of a healthy cat – a glossy coat, bright eyes, and a healthy appetite. However, changes in a cat’s appearance or behavior can be indicative of an underlying health problem. One of the most common signs of illness in cats is changes in coat condition. A dull or patchy coat, excessive shedding, or bald patches may be indicators of a health problem.

 

Coughing

If your cat starts coughing, it might be a sign that she’s sick. Coughing can be a symptom of many different illnesses, including respiratory infections, heart disease, and cancer. If your cat has been coughing for more than a week, take her to the veterinarian to have her checked out.

 

Fever

There are many signs that a cat might be sick, but one of the most common is fever. A fever is often a sign that something is wrong with your cat, and it’s important to get them checked out by a professional. Your cat’s normal temperature is between 100 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If your cat’s temperature is 104 or above, she may have a fever.


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Visible third eyelid

A third eyelid, also known as a nictitating membrane, is a thin layer of tissue that helps protect the eye. In most cases, you can’t see it because it’s hidden beneath the upper and lower eyelids. However, in some cases, the third eyelid may become visible – a sign that your cat may be sick. There are several reasons why your cat’s third eyelid may become visible. One common reason is dehydration. When a cat is dehydrated, the membranes around their eyes may shrink and pull the third eyelid out of its normal position. Other potential causes of a visible third eyelid include: infection, inflammation, cancer, and neurologic problems. If you notice that your cat’s third eyelid is visible, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

 

Urinating more frequently

If your cat is urinating more frequently than usual, it could be a sign that she’s sick. Cats typically urinate about four to six times a day, but if your cat is going more than eight times a day, she may have a health problem. Some of the most common causes of frequent urination in cats include bladder infection, kidney disease, and diabetes. If you notice your cat is urinating more frequently, take her to the veterinarian for an examination.

 

In conclusion, it can be difficult to determine when your Ragdoll cat needs to see the veterinarian. Cats are good at hiding their illnesses, and they often only show subtle signs that something is wrong. However, there are some things that are definite red flags, and if your cat shows any of these signs, it is best to take them to the vet as soon as possible. By being aware of the common signs that your cat may be unwell, you can seek veterinary help early and give your furry friend the best chance at a full recovery.

 

Find out more about health issues in Ragdoll Cats

Written by Jennie @ Ragdoll Cats World

I'm Jennie, the creator of Ragdoll Cats World. I have been owned and loved by Ragdoll Cats for almost twenty years after getting my first Ragdoll kittens, Huey and Choo-Choo back in 2003. They lived to the grand old age of 18 and 17 and they even made the move from London to Australia with me! We now have two Ragdoll cats, Violet and Ocean, and a Maine Coon cat named Eddie, and we love sharing our knowledge of all things related to Ragdoll Cats with you at Ragdoll Cats World!

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