10 common cat health problems and warning signs

Below are 10 common health problems seen in cats, including digestive issues, urinary tract disease, dental disease, kidney disease, skin problems, parasites, injuries and age-related conditions.

1. Gastrointestinal problems

Gastrointestinal problems are among the most common reasons cats need veterinary care. Signs can include vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, flatulence, blood or mucus in the stool, or changes in litter tray habits.

Some stomach upsets may be short-lived, such as those caused by a sudden diet change, hairballs or eating something unusual. However, ongoing or repeated digestive signs can point to a more serious underlying issue, such as food intolerance, parasites, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, infection, kidney disease, liver disease or even cancer.

Because cats can become dehydrated quickly, it is important to monitor vomiting and diarrhoea closely. Veterinary attention is recommended if symptoms are severe, persist for more than 24 hours, recur frequently, or are accompanied by lethargy, pain, blood, weight loss or refusal to eat.

Learn more about gastroenteritis and diarrhoea in cats.

2. Urinary tract disorders

Urinary tract disorders are a major health concern in cats and can affect the bladder, urethra or kidneys. One of the most common umbrella terms is feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, which can involve bladder inflammation, crystals, stones, infection, stress-related urinary problems or urethral blockage.

Signs of urinary problems in cats can include straining to urinate, frequent trips to the litter tray, crying when urinating, blood in the urine, urinating outside the litter tray, licking the genital area, or passing only small amounts of urine.

A cat that cannot urinate needs urgent veterinary care. This is especially important in male cats, as they are at higher risk of urinary blockage, which can become life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Urinary problems can be linked to stress, diet, hydration, obesity, bladder stones or underlying disease. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve pain relief, fluids, dietary changes, stress management, medication or emergency intervention in severe cases.

Learn more about UTI and FLUTD in cats.

3. Dental disease

Dental disease is very common in cats, especially as they age. Plaque and tartar can build up on the teeth, leading to gum inflammation, infection, tooth pain and tooth loss. Cats can also develop painful conditions such as tooth resorption, where the tooth structure breaks down.

Signs of dental disease can include bad breath, red or bleeding gums, drooling, pawing at the mouth, chewing on one side, dropping food, reduced appetite, weight loss or a reluctance to eat hard food. However, many cats hide mouth pain, so dental disease may not be obvious until it is advanced.

Regular veterinary check-ups are important because a vet can assess the teeth and gums properly. Treatment may involve professional dental cleaning under anaesthetic, dental X-rays, extractions or pain relief. At home, your vet may recommend dental diets, dental treats, brushing or other oral care products suitable for cats.

Learn more about dental disease in cats and pet insurance that covers dental in Australia.

4. Kidney disease

Kidney disease is a common condition in cats, particularly older cats. The kidneys help filter waste from the blood, regulate hydration and support other important body functions. When kidney function declines, waste products can build up in the body and cats may become unwell gradually over time.

Common signs of kidney disease include drinking more water, urinating more often, weight loss, poor appetite, vomiting, bad breath, dehydration, lethargy and a poor coat. Because these signs can develop slowly, owners may not notice them until the disease has progressed.

Chronic kidney disease cannot usually be cured, but it can often be managed with veterinary care. Management may include blood and urine testing, blood pressure checks, prescription kidney diets, medication, fluid therapy and regular monitoring. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference to comfort and quality of life.

For more detail, read our article on kidney disease, including early signs, diagnosis and ongoing management.

5. Skin infections and allergies

Skin problems in cats can be caused by fleas, mites, allergies, wounds, infections, ringworm, grooming changes or underlying disease. Signs may include itching, scratching, licking, chewing, scabs, hair loss, redness, dandruff, sores or changes in coat condition.

Allergies may be triggered by fleas, food ingredients or environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites or mould. Flea allergy dermatitis is a common cause of itching and skin irritation in cats, and even a small number of flea bites can cause a major reaction in sensitive cats.

Skin infections may develop after scratching, bites, wounds or irritation. Some skin conditions, such as ringworm, can also spread to other pets or people, so a vet diagnosis is important.

Treatment depends on the cause and may involve parasite control, medicated shampoos, antibiotics, antifungal treatment, allergy management, wound care or changes to diet or environment.

Learn more about allergies in cats.

6. Eye conditions

Eye problems in cats can range from mild irritation to serious conditions that may threaten vision. Common signs include redness, squinting, discharge, cloudiness, swelling, excessive tearing, pawing at the eye, sensitivity to light or a visible change in eye colour or shape.

Eye conditions may be caused by injury, infection, cat flu, allergies, ulcers, glaucoma, uveitis or other underlying disease. Kittens and cats from multi-cat environments may be more prone to infectious eye problems, particularly those associated with upper respiratory infections.

Eye problems should be assessed by a vet promptly, especially if your cat is squinting, the eye looks cloudy, there is trauma, or symptoms appear suddenly. Eye pain can be significant, and early treatment can help prevent complications.

Learn more about eye conditions in cats.

7. Ear infections

Ear infections are less common in cats than in dogs, but they can still occur and may cause significant discomfort. Signs include head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, swelling, discharge, odour, sensitivity around the ears or loss of balance.

Ear problems in cats may be caused by mites, bacterial or yeast infections, foreign material, allergies, polyps or underlying disease. Ear mites are particularly common in kittens and can cause dark, crumbly discharge that may look like coffee grounds.

A vet can examine the ear canal and determine the cause. Treatment may include ear cleaning, parasite control, medicated drops or further investigation if the infection is recurrent or severe. Avoid putting anything into your cat’s ears unless advised by a vet, as the wrong product may worsen irritation or damage the ear.

Find out more about ear infections in cats.

8. Injuries, fight wounds and fractures

Cats can be injured through fights, falls, road accidents, misadventure or accidents around the home. Outdoor cats are at higher risk of bite wounds, abscesses, fractures and trauma, but indoor cats can also suffer injuries from falls, trapped limbs or household hazards.

Fight wounds can be difficult to spot because puncture marks may be hidden under the coat. Over time, they can become swollen, painful or infected, sometimes forming an abscess. Signs may include limping, lethargy, fever, hiding, loss of appetite, swelling or sensitivity when touched.

Fractures and serious injuries require urgent veterinary care. Seek immediate help if your cat is unable to walk, has difficulty breathing, has been hit by a car, is bleeding heavily, appears in severe pain or is unusually quiet after a suspected accident.

Keeping cats indoors, using secure outdoor enclosures and desexing can help reduce the risk of roaming, fighting and injury.

Learn more about bone fractures.

9. Fleas, ticks and parasites

Fleas, ticks, worms and mites can all affect cats. Parasites may cause itching, skin irritation, hair loss, anaemia, digestive upset, weight loss or general discomfort. Some parasites can also transmit diseases or affect other pets and people in the household.

Fleas are a common problem and can trigger flea allergy dermatitis in sensitive cats. Cats may scratch, overgroom, develop scabs or lose hair, especially around the back, tail base and neck. Fleas can also contribute to tapeworm infection if swallowed during grooming.

Ticks can be dangerous, especially paralysis ticks in some parts of Australia. Signs of tick paralysis can include weakness, wobbliness, voice changes, vomiting, difficulty breathing or collapse. Tick paralysis is a veterinary emergency.

Parasite prevention should be discussed with your vet, as not all dog parasite products are safe for cats. Some ingredients used in dog treatments can be toxic to cats.

Learn more about flea control and protection.

Because it is difficult to predict the costs of veterinary care, it can help to have measures in place to help prepare for the unexpected. Pet insurance can help by covering a portion of the eligible vet bill if the unexpected does happen.

Get a quick quote

10. Arthritis, obesity and age-related disease

Arthritis is common in older cats but often goes unnoticed because cats may not limp clearly. Instead, they may sleep more, jump less, hesitate before climbing, avoid stairs, have difficulty using the litter tray, groom less, become irritable or withdraw from normal activities.

Obesity can increase the risk of several health problems, including arthritis, diabetes, urinary tract disease, reduced mobility and reduced quality of life. Even a small amount of excess weight can place extra strain on a cat’s joints and organs.

Senior cats are also more prone to conditions such as kidney disease, dental disease, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, heart disease and cancer. Regular veterinary check-ups become increasingly important as cats age, as blood tests, urine tests, blood pressure checks and weight monitoring can help detect problems earlier.

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight, encouraging gentle activity, providing accessible litter trays and food bowls, and attending regular vet checks can all support long-term health.

Find out more about arthritis in pets.

Common senior cat condition: Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common hormonal condition in middle-aged and older cats. It occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which speeds up the body’s metabolism.

Signs can include weight loss despite a good or increased appetite, restlessness, increased thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea, a fast heart rate, poor coat condition or increased vocalisation. Treatment options may include medication, prescription diet, radioactive iodine therapy or surgery, depending on the cat and the vet’s recommendation.

Important infectious disease: FIV

Feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV, is a viral infection that affects a cat’s immune system. It is most commonly spread through deep bite wounds, so outdoor cats, undesexed male cats and cats that fight are at higher risk.

Many FIV-positive cats can live for years with good care, but they may be more vulnerable to infections and other health problems. Preventive steps include desexing, reducing roaming and fighting, keeping cats indoors or in secure outdoor spaces, and testing cats that may have been exposed.

Lumps, mass lesions and cancer

Cats can develop lumps, bumps and mass lesions for many reasons, including cysts, abscesses, benign growths or cancer. Any new lump, rapidly growing lump, sore that does not heal, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, breathing changes or ongoing lethargy should be checked by a vet.

Cancer can affect many parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, digestive system, blood cells or internal organs. Early investigation can help determine whether a lump is harmless, infected or more serious, and whether treatment is needed.

A final word

Caring for a cat means being alert to subtle changes and acting early when something seems wrong. Regular vet check-ups, preventive care and prompt treatment can all help protect your cat’s health. If your cat is diagnosed with an unexpected illness or injury, treatment costs can add up quickly. You can also explore our guides to common cat illnesses and Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance to learn more. Our award-winning Nose-to-Tail Cover  can provide up to $30,000 for eligible illnesses and injuries, depending on your level of cover, policy limits, waiting periods and exclusions.

Sources:

“Top 10 Health Conditions in Dogs and Cats”, PetSure, https://petsure.com.au/knowledge-hub/top-10-health-conditions-dogs-cats-2025/. Accessed 11 Jun 2026

“Pet Health Monitor 2025”, PetSure, https://petsure.com.au/pet-health-monitor/. Accessed 11 Jun 2026

“Chronic Kidney Disease”, Cornell Feline Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/chronic-kidney-disease. Accessed 11 Jun 2026

“Hyperthyroidism in Cats”, Cornell Feline Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/hyperthyroidism-cats. Accessed 11 Jun 2026

“Dental Disease in Cats”, International Cat Care, https://icatcare.org/articles/dental-disease-in-cats/. Accessed 11 Jun 2026

“Guidelines for dental treatment in dogs and cats”, Australian Veterinary Association, https://www.ava.com.au/policy-advocacy/policies/companion-animals-health/guidelines-for-dental-treatment-in-dogs-and-cats/. Accessed 11 Jun 2026