1. General Behavioral Changes
Sudden differences in your cat’s daily routine are among the first warning signs:

• Sleeping more than usual or showing extreme restlessness

• Hiding or seeming uninterested

• Excessive meowing or, on the contrary, being unusually silent

• Avoiding family members

Remember: If your cat’s temperament has changed, it may be a sign not only of psychological stress but also of a physical problem.

2. Eating and Drinking Habits

• Loss of appetite lasting more than a few days should be taken seriously.

• Excessive eating or drinking may signal conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease.

• Suddenly becoming picky with food may be linked to dental problems or stomach issues.

---

3. Changes in Litter Box Habits

• Frequent trips to the litter box but little urine (sign of a urinary tract infection)

• Diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool color

• Urinating or defecating outside the litter box (may be caused by physical or emotional issues)

Monitoring your cat’s litter box habits reveals a lot about its health.

---

4. Physical Symptoms

• Nasal or eye discharge, coughing, sneezing

• Weight loss or unusual weight gain

• Dull coat, excessive shedding, or bald patches

• Limping, reluctance to jump, or restricted movement

• Lumps, swelling, or scars

---

5. Oral and Respiratory Problems

• Bad breath, bleeding gums, or drooling

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or open-mouth breathing

• Tongue sticking out, especially if accompanied by weakness—this requires urgent care

---

6. Excessive Grooming or Lack of Grooming

• Constant licking may indicate stress, allergies, or skin diseases.

• On the other hand, no grooming at all may point to pain, weakness, or depression.

---

7. Sudden Behavioral Reactions

• Aggression or a playful cat suddenly becoming withdrawn

• Disliking being picked up or sensitivity when a specific area is touched

• Constantly staring at walls or into empty space (possible neurological issue)

8. When Should You See a Veterinarian?
Take your cat to a veterinary clinic immediately if one or more of the following symptoms appear:

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours

• Inability to urinate

• Loss of consciousness or balance problems

• Severe breathing difficulties

• Sudden blindness or changes in the eyes

---

Conclusion
Even though your cat can’t speak, its body communicates a lot. Observing its behavior, eating and drinking habits, and daily routine helps you detect problems early. Early diagnosis saves lives!

Remember: A watchful eye is the most valuable protection for your cat’s health.