Cat Health

A Survival Instinct That Works Against Them If your cat has ever disappeared under the bed for days or suddenly stopped coming out for meals, your instinct to worry was right. Cats are hardwired to hide signs of illness and pain — a survival instinct inherited from their wild ancestors. In the wild, a sick…

What Your Cat Is Really Telling You When They Purr When a cat curls up beside you and begins to purr, it feels comforting and familiar. Most people assume purring always means a cat is happy—and often, that’s true. But purring is more complex than many cat owners realize. It can signal comfort, communication, stress…

Love bugs are a familiar sight across Florida, drifting through the air in large numbers during their seasonal swarms. While they’re mostly a mild annoyance for people, outdoor cats often see them as irresistible moving targets. What looks like harmless play can lead to unexpected health problems for cats who spend time hunting outside. Why…

Understanding the MDR1 Gene and Why It Matters for Your Cat’s Safety If your cat ever needs medication — whether it’s a simple flea preventive or sedation for a routine procedure — there’s one small but mighty gene that can make a big difference in how safely their body handles it: the MDR1 gene. Also…

Did you know that arthritis is the number one cause of chronic pain in cats? Research shows that nearly 90% of cats show signs of arthritis on X-rays, and almost half of these cats experience pain and trouble moving around. Yet, fewer than 10% are actually receiving treatment. At Community Animal Hospitals (CAH), we’re committed…

The mysterious world of feline health can often puzzle cat owners, especially when their once lively companions begin to slow down unexpectedly. One lesser-known condition that could be the cause is feline hypothyroidism. This disorder, though rarer in cats compared to hyperthyroidism, can profoundly impact a cat’s quality of life. Recognizing the signs early is…

Cat owners cherish their furry companions, yet understanding feline health issues can be challenging. One common ailment affecting our whiskered friends is hyperthyroidism. This condition involves an overactive thyroid gland, which can significantly impact a cat’s well-being. As cats age, the likelihood of developing hyperthyroidism increases, often leading to noticeable changes in their behavior and…

Cats are known for their grace and independence, but even these elegant creatures can face health challenges. One common but often misunderstood issue is feline cystitis, a condition that affects a cat’s bladder and urinary tract. Whether it’s a sudden visit to the litter box or noticeable discomfort, feline cystitis can be distressing for both…