Cat health symptoms

Dandruff is the presence of excessive amounts of dry, flaky skin near the hair roots. Cats of any age may develop dandruff.

Dark urine is a common observation in cats and may be an indication of a medical concern in some cases. Fluctuations in color and character of urine throughout the day are normal and expected in healthy individuals.

Decreased thirst, or hypodipsia, in cats is characterized as a decrease in water intake.

Dehydration in cats occurs when there is inadequate water available to the body’s cells. Specific symptoms of dehydration are dry gums, tented skin, and sunken eyes.

Diarrhea is the occurrence of loose, watery stools caused by a gastrointestinal issue. This is a common symptom of a number of disorders in cats

Dyspnea is when a cat has difficulty inhaling or exhaling and isn't getting enough oxygen.

Difficulty chewing in cats is a broad term referring to any difficulty picking up or chewing food. This is not to be confused with difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or regurgitation.

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, is rarely observed in cats.

Ataxia means “difficulty walking”. An ataxic cat has difficulty controlling the movements of the head, legs, or torso.

The pupil is the opening in the center of the eye. Dilated pupils in cats occur normally in response to decreased light levels and some physiologic conditions, such as during the natural fear response.