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.

When a cat develops patches of dark skin, referred to as hyperpigmentation. Cats may develop dark or black areas on their skin due to chronic irritation, hormonal changes, prolonged UV exposure, certain cancers, or as a result of a genetic condition.

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 drinking (Adipsia/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

Pica is a behavioral symptom where cats compulsively eat non-food items. It is an uncommon symptom in cats. This abnormal behavior can indicate an underlying medical issue such as infection or nutritional deficiency, or may be due to stress.

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.

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.