A Cat Owner’s Guide to Common Symptoms
The information on this page is a general guide only and isn’t a substitute for professional veterinary care. Every cat is different — if you’re ever unsure or something just doesn’t feel right, please contact us. We’re always happy to help.
Our cats can’t tell us what’s wrong, so it’s natural to be concerned when something seems off. This guide walks through what’s generally nothing to worry about, what’s worth keeping an eye on, and when it’s time to give us a call.
Is This Normal? Common Cat Behaviors Explained
“Making biscuits” is a contented, comforting behavior carried over from kittenhood. It’s a sign your cat feels safe and happy.
That chirping, chattering sound is pure hunting instinct kicking in at prey they can’t quite reach. It’s a normal (and very entertaining) part of having a cat.
Cats naturally sleep 12–16 hours a day, so a very sleepy cat is usually just being a cat. It’s worth a call only if the sleepiness comes with hiding, not eating, or a sudden drop in energy.
Cats are naturally crepuscular, meaning they’re wired to be most active at dawn and dusk when their prey would be out. Those nighttime “zoomies” are a normal instinct at work. If the restlessness is new in an older cat, or comes with loud yowling, it’s worth a call.
Stalking, pouncing, and ambushing are hardwired hunting behaviors, and indoor cats channel them onto toys, feet, and the occasional shadow. It’s healthy enrichment. Regular play with wand or puzzle toys gives that instinct a satisfying outlet.
When your cat rubs their cheeks on furniture, doorways, or you, they’re marking their territory with scent glands and claiming you as their own. It’s a compliment, and completely normal.
Common Cat Symptoms & Conditions
Digestive/GI
| Condition | What it is | Signs to watch for | When to contact us |
| Gastroenteritis (upset stomach) | Irritation of the digestive tract from diet changes, illness, or stress. | Vomiting, diarrhea, hiding, low appetite. | If it lasts more than 24 hours, you see blood, or your cat stops eating. |
| Intestinal parasites (worms) | Worms picked up from hunting, fleas, or the environment. | Diarrhea, weight loss, pot-belly, segments near the tail, dull coat. | To arrange testing and preventative care. |
Breathing & Respiratory
| Condition | What it is | Signs to watch for | When to contact us |
| Upper respiratory infection (“cat flu”) | Common viral infections that often flare in shelters or multi-cat homes. | Sneezing, runny eyes and nose, congestion, reduced appetite. | If your cat stops eating, is very congested, or has eye irritation — these need attention. |
| Feline asthma | An allergic airway condition that narrows the airways. | Coughing, wheezing, a hunched “hacking” posture, open-mouth breathing. | Promptly. Open-mouth or labored breathing in a cat is always urgent (see below). |
Skin, Coat & Allergies
| Condition | What it is | Signs to watch for | When to contact us |
| Fleas & flea allergy dermatitis | Flea bites that trigger itching and overgrooming. | Overgrooming, scabs (often neck and back), hair loss, visible flea dirt. | To set up year-round preventative care — even for indoor cats. |
| Ringworm | A contagious fungal infection of skin and fur (despite the name, not a worm) that can spread to people. | Circular patches of hair loss, flaky or crusty skin. | For diagnosis. As it’s contagious to humans and other pets, early treatment matters. |
Urinary & Bladder
| Condition | What it is | Signs to watch for | When to contact us |
| Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) | An umbrella term for bladder and urethral conditions, often linked to stress. | Straining, frequent litter box trips, blood in urine, peeing outside the box, crying. | If you see these signs. Please read the urgent note below, especially for male cats. |
| Urethral blockage | A life-threatening obstruction that stops a cat from urinating, most common in males. | Straining with little or no urine, crying, restlessness, vomiting, lethargy. | This is a true emergency. If your cat can’t urinate, contact us or an emergency vet immediately. |
Mobility & Joints
| Condition | What it is | Signs to watch for | When to contact us |
| Arthritis (osteoarthritis) | Joint wear that’s very common but easy to miss in cats. | Less jumping, hesitation on stairs, sleeping more, grooming less. | If your cat is slowing down — subtle changes are often the first clue. |
| Soft-tissue injury / limping | Strains or sprains, often from a fall or an awkward jump. | Limping, holding up a leg, tenderness, hiding. | If a limp lasts more than a day or your cat seems to be in pain. |
When to Call Right Away
Some symptoms shouldn’t wait. Contact us (or your nearest emergency vet after hours) right away if your cat has any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing, choking, or open-mouth breathing
- Straining to urinate or an inability to pass urine (an emergency, especially in male cats)
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea, or any blood in either
- A swollen, hard, or bloated belly
- Collapse, extreme weakness, or unresponsiveness
- Seizures
- Suspected poisoning, or eating a foreign object
- Pale, white, or blue-tinged gums
- A sudden inability to walk or stand
- Signs of severe pain (crying out, trembling, or aggression when touched)
- Any difficulty during pregnancy or birth
Questions About Your Pet?
This guide is a starting point, not a diagnosis. When it comes to your cat’s health, there’s no such thing as a silly question! If something seems off or you’re just not sure, contact us. We’re always happy to help you figure out the next step.