Title: Cat health

{{short description|Health of domestic cats}}
[[File:Feral cat Virginia crop.jpg|thumb|Cats are frequently wounded in fights with other cats, and if punctures and tears caused by bites are left untreated, the wounds can lead to serious [[infections]], including [[abscesses]].&lt;ref name=Wound&gt;[http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=222&amp;med=1 Bites, puncture wounds, and abscesses] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227150140/http://www.webvet.com/main/article?id=222&amp;med=1 |date=2009-02-27 }}, John A. Bukowski and Susan E. Aiello; WebVet.com; accessed March 30, 2009.&lt;/ref&gt;]]

The '''health of domestic [[cat]]s''' is a well studied area in [[veterinary medicine]].

Topics include [[infectious disease|infectious]] and [[genetic disorder|genetic]] diseases, [[diet (nutrition)|diet]] and [[nutrition]] and non-[[therapy|therapeutic]] surgical procedures such as [[neutering]] and [[onychectomy|declawing]].

== Diseases ==
{{See also|List of feline diseases}}
{{unreferenced section|date=March 2024}}
[[File:Catfeiradesantana.jpg|right|thumb|300px|An abandoned near-white cat with an illness in [[Feira de Santana]], [[Brazil]]]]

=== Infectious diseases ===
An [[infectious disease]] is caused by the presence of [[pathogenic organism]]s such as [[virus]]es, [[bacteria]], [[fungi]], or [[parasite]]s (either [[animal]]ian or [[protozoa]]n).  Most of these diseases can spread from cat to cat via airborne pathogens or through direct or indirect contact, while others require a [[vector (epidemiology)|vector]] such as a [[tick]] or [[mosquito]]. Certain infectious diseases are a concern from a [[public health]] standpoint because they are a [[Feline zoonosis]] and transmittable to humans.

==== Viral ====
[[Virus|Viral]] diseases in cats can be serious, especially in [[cattery|catteries]] and [[kennel]]s. Timely [[vaccination]] can reduce the risk and severity of an infection. The most commonly recommended viruses to vaccinate cats against are:

* '''Feline herpesvirus''' 1 (FHV-1), a viral cause of [[feline viral rhinotracheitis]], a respiratory infection of [[Cat|cats.]]
* '''[[Feline calicivirus]]''' (FCV), a common viral cause of respiratory infection in cats.
* '''Feline parvovirus''', which causes [[feline panleukopenia]] (FPV), more commonly known as feline distemper.
* '''[[Feline leukemia virus]]''' (FeLV), a [[retrovirus]].
* [[Rabies in animals|'''Rabies''']], a fatal disease transmitted by the bite of an infected [[mammal]]. In the United States, cats make up 4.6% of reported cases of rabies infected animals.&lt;ref&gt;{{Cite journal 
| last1 = Blanton | first1 = J. D. 
| last2 = Hanlon | first2 = C. A. 
| last3 = Rupprecht | first3 = C. E. 
| doi = 10.2460/javma.231.4.540 
| title = Rabies surveillance in the United States during 2006 
| journal = Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 
| volume = 231 
| issue = 4 
| pages = 540–556 
| year = 2007 
| pmid = 17696853 
| pmc = 5120391 
}}&lt;/ref&gt;

Viruses for which there are no vaccines:

* [[Feline immunodeficiency virus]] (FIV), a [[lentivirus]] and genetic relative of [[HIV]].&lt;ref name=&quot;GR&quot;&gt;{{cite web | url =http://genome.cshlp.org/site/press/CatGenomeSequence.xhtml|title=Domestic cat genome sequenced|publisher=[[Genome Research]]| access-date =14 Feb 2015}}&lt;/ref&gt; There is no approved vaccine for FIV in North America.&lt;ref&gt;{{Cite web|date=2017-10-10|title=Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)|url=https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv|access-date=2021-08-16|website=Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine|language=en}}&lt;/ref&gt;                                      
*Feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV), a mutation of feline enteric [[coronavirus]] (FECV/FeCoV) that causes [[feline infectious peritonitis]] (FIP), a fatal incurable disease.
See: [[Global spread of H5N1#Felidae (cats)]]

====Bacterial====
*[[Chlamydia felis]]

==== Fungal ====
* [[Ringworm]]
* [[Cryptococcus]]
* [[Malassezia pachydermatis]]

==== Parasites ====
[[Veterinary parasitology]] studies both external and internal [[parasite]]s in animals. External parasites, such as fleas, mites, ticks and mosquitoes can cause skin irritation, and are also often carriers of other diseases or of internal parasites.

===== External parasites =====
* [[Ear mite]]s and other [[mite]]s can cause skin problems such as [[mange]].
* [[Tick]]s, [[Cat flea|flea]]s, and [[mosquito]]es often carry multiple blood-borne diseases.

===== Internal parasites =====
* [[Heartworm]]
* [[Hookworm]]
* [[Toxocara cati|Roundworm]]
* [[Toxoplasma gondii]]
* [[Cytauxzoon|Cytauxzoon felis]]

=== Genetic diseases ===
[[File:Cat Briciola with pretty and different colour of eyes.jpg|thumb|right|300px|A cat displaying heterochromia]]
Domestic cats are affected by over 250 naturally occurring [[Genetic disorder|hereditary disorders]], many of which are similar to those in humans, such as [[diabetes]], [[hemophilia]] and [[Tay–Sachs disease]].&lt;ref name=&quot;GR&quot;/&gt;&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web | url =http://www.genomenewsnetwork.org/articles/04_00/cat_humans.shtml|title=Cats and humans share similar X and Y chromosomes|author=Sharon Guynup|publisher=[[Genome News Network]]|date=April 21, 2000| access-date =14 Feb 2015}}&lt;/ref&gt; For example, [[Abyssinian cat]]'s pedigree contains a [[genetic mutation]] that causes [[retinitis pigmentosa]], which also affects humans.&lt;ref name=&quot;GR&quot;/&gt;
* [[Familial renal disease in animals|Familial renal disease]] is inherited in [[Abyssinian (cat)|Abyssinian]]s and [[Persian (cat)|Persian]]s
* [[Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy|Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy]]
* [[Heart valve dysplasia]]
* [[Heterochromia]]
* [[Luxating patella]]
* [[Portosystemic shunt]]. Found in Persians and [[Himalayas|Himalayan]]s.
* [[Flat-chested kitten syndrome]]

=== Skin disorders ===
{{Further|Cat skin disorders}}
Skin disorders are among the most common health problems in cats and have many causes. The condition of a cat's skin and coat can be an important indicator of its general health.

* Cheyletiellosis is a mild [[dermatitis]] caused by [[mite]]s of the [[genus]] ''[[Cheyletiella]]''. It is also known as ''walking dandruff'' due to skin scales being carried by the mites.
* [[Feline acne]]
* [[Feline eosinophilic granuloma]]
* [[Flea allergy dermatitis]]
* [[Miliary dermatitis]] (feline [[eczema]])
* [[Mange]]
* [[Cat skin disorders|Nutritional skin disorders]]

=== Tumors and cancer ===
* [[Bladder cancer in cats and dogs|Bladder cancer]]
* [[Bone cancer in cats and dogs|Bone cancer]]
* [[Intestinal cancer in cats and dogs|Intestinal cancer]]
* [[Liver cancer in cats and dogs|Liver cancer]]
* [[Lymphoma in animals]]
* [[Mammary tumor#Mammary tumors in cats|Mammary tumor]]
* [[Mastocytoma#Cats|Mast cell tumor]]
* [[Nose cancer in cats and dogs|Nose cancer]]
* [[Skin cancer in cats and dogs|Skin cancer]]
* [[Soft tissue sarcoma in cats and dogs|Soft tissue sarcoma]]
* [[Stomach cancer in cats and dogs|Stomach cancer]]

=== Other diseases ===
* [[Anal sacs|Anal sacs impaction]]
* [[Cerebellar hypoplasia (non-human)|Cerebellar hypoplasia]] is a disorder found in cats and dogs in which the [[cerebellum]] is not completely mature at birth. Cerebellar hypoplasia causes jerky movements, [[tremor]]s and generally [[motor skills|uncoordinated motion]].  The animal often falls down and has trouble [[walking]].  Tremors increase when the animal is excited and subside when at ease.
* A [[Corneal ulcers in animals|corneal ulcer]] is an inflammatory condition of the [[cornea]] involving loss of its outer layer.  It is very common in [[dog]]s and is sometimes seen in [[cat]]s.
* [[Diabetes in cats|Diabetes]]
* [[Feline hyperaldosteronism]]
*[[Feline hyperthyroidism]] 
* [[Epilepsy in animals|Epilepsy]] is characterized by recurrent unprovoked [[seizure]]s. Epilepsy in cats is rare likely because there is no hereditary component to epilepsy in cats.
* [[Feline asthma]]
* [[Feline hepatic lipidosis]] also known as Feline Fatty Liver Syndrome, is one of the most common forms of [[liver disease]] of cats.&lt;ref&gt;[http://www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx?ID=42&amp;sid=2 Welcome to Healthypet.com!&lt;!-- Bot generated title --&gt;] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928121958/http://www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx?ID=42&amp;sid=2 |date=2007-09-28 }}&lt;/ref&gt; The disease begins when the cat stops eating from a loss of appetite, forcing the liver to convert body fat into usable energy.
* [[Feline lower urinary tract disease]] is a term that is used to cover many problems of the feline [[urinary system|urinary tract]], including [[bladder stone (animal)|stones]] and [[cystitis]]. The term feline urologic syndrome is an older term which is still sometimes used for this condition. It is a common disease in adult cats, though it can strike in young cats too. It may present as any of a variety of urinary tract problems, and can lead to a complete blockage of the urinary system, which if left untreated is fatal.
* [[Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesion]]
* [[Feline spongiform encephalopathy]]
* [[Polyneuropathy in dogs and cats|Polyneuropathy]]
* [[Pyometra]]
* [[Unicornuate uterus|Uterine unicornis]] a condition in which the female cat is missing a uterine horn.  A rare discovery by [[veterinarians]], the condition can be detected by [[x-ray]] or [[ultrasound]] prior to [[spaying]] if the patient has a family history of the medical condition.  There is no known scientific study to prove that uterine unicornis is a hereditary [[genetic disorder]].  In some cases, the patient may also be missing a [[kidney]] on the same side as its missing uterine horn.  This phenomenon is also called unilateral [[renal agenesis]].

=== Zoonosis ===
Researchers at the [[University of Cornell]] Feline Health Center believe that &quot;most zoonotic diseases pose minimal threat&quot; to humans.  However some humans are particularly at risk.  These are people &quot;with immature or weakened immune systems&quot; (infants, the elderly, people undergoing cancer therapy, and individuals with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Some common and '''preventable''' forms of [[zoonosis]]&lt;ref&gt;[https://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/Health_Information/brochure_zoonoticdisease.cfm Zoonotic Disease: What Can I Catch From My Cat?]&lt;/ref&gt; are as follows:

* [[Toxoplasmosis]]
* [[Giardia]]
* [[Cat-scratch disease]]
* [[Rabies]]
* [[Ringworm]]

== Preventive medicine ==

=== Vaccinations ===
{{main|Feline vaccination}}
Vaccinations are an important preventive animal health measure. The specific vaccinations recommended for cats varies depending on geographic location, environment, travel history, and the activities the animal frequently engages in. In the United States, regardless of any of these factors, it is usually highly recommended that cats be vaccinated against ''rabies'', ''feline herpesvirus 1'' (FHV-1), ''feline calicivirus'' (FCV), and ''feline panleukopenia virus'' (FPV).  The decision on whether to vaccinate against other diseases should be made between an owner and a veterinarian, taking into account factors specific to the cat.

=== Detection of diseases ===
Feline diseases such as [[FeLV]], [[FIV]], and feline [[heartworm]] can be detected during a routine visit to a veterinarian.  A variety of tests exist that can detect feline illnesses, and with early detection most diseases can be managed effectively.

=== Parasite medication ===
Once-a-month topical products or ingestible pills are the most commonly used products to kill and prevent future parasite infestations.

== Diet and nutrition ==
{{Further|Cat food}}
{{See also|Pet food}}
{{unreferenced section|date=March 2024}}
Veterinarians commonly recommend commercial [[cat food]]s that are formulated to address the specific nutritional requirements of cats, although an increasing number of owners are opting for home-prepared cooked or [[raw feeding|raw diets]].

Although cats are [[obligate carnivore]]s, [[vegetarian]] and [[vegan]] cat food are preferred by owners uncomfortable with feeding animal products to their pets. The [[U.S. Food and Drug Administration]] [[Center for Veterinary Medicine]] has come out against vegetarian cat and dog food for health reasons. Cats require high levels of taurine in their diet. Taurine is an organic acid found in animal tissues. It is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine. Taurine has many  biological roles, such as conjugation of bile acids, antioxidation, membrane stabilization, and modulation of calcium signaling. It is essential for cardiovascular function in cats, as well as the development and function of skeletal muscle, the retinas, and the central nervous system. Although meat protein can be substituted with vegetable proteins, vegetable proteins do not provide a sufficiency of the specific amino acids which are vital for a cat's body to function.&lt;ref&gt;[https://archive.today/20120722134952/http://www.azcentral.com/ent/pop/articles/0518vegpets18-CR.html Vegetarian dogs and cats: Kibble doesn't cut it anymore&lt;!-- Bot generated title --&gt;]&lt;/ref&gt;&lt;ref&gt;[http://www.the-cat-guide.com/nutrition-for-cats.html Nutrition for Cats&lt;!-- Bot generated title --&gt;]&lt;/ref&gt;

Cats can be selective eaters. Although it is extremely rare for a cat to deliberately starve itself to the point of injury, in obese cats, the sudden loss of weight can cause a fatal condition called [[Feline Hepatic Lipidosis|feline hepatic lipidosis]], a liver dysfunction which causes pathological loss of appetite and reinforces the starvation, which can lead to death within as little as 48 hours.

[[Pica (disorder)|Pica]] is a condition in which animals chew or eat unusual things such as fabric, plastic or wool. In cats, this can be fatal or require surgical removal if a large amount of foreign material is ingested (for example, an entire sock). It tends to occur more often in Burmese, Oriental, and Siamese breeds.

=== Food allergy ===
{{Main|Allergies in cats}}
[[Food allergy]] is a non-seasonal disease with skin and/or gastrointestinal disorders. The main complaint is [[pruritus]]. The exact prevalence of food allergy in cats remains unknown. There is no breed, sex or age predilection, although some breeds are commonly affected. Before the onset of clinical signs, the animals have been fed the offending food components for at least two years, although some animals are less than a year old. In 20 to 30% of the cases, cats have concurrent allergic diseases ([[atopy]] / flea-allergic [[dermatitis]]). A reliable diagnosis can only be made with an [[elimination diet]]. [[Challenge–dechallenge–rechallenge]] is necessary for the identification of the causative food component(s). Therapy consists of avoiding the offending food component(s).&lt;ref&gt;{{cite journal | last = Verlinden| first = A.|author2=Hesta, M.|author3=Millet, S.|author4=Janssens, G.P.| year = 2006| title = Food Allergy in Dogs and Cats: A Review| journal = [[Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition]] | volume = 46| issue = 3| pages = 259–273
| doi = 10.1080/10408390591001117 | pmid = 16527756
| s2cid = 32026297}}&lt;/ref&gt; Cats with food allergies may present with red, hairless, and scabby skin. Hair loss usually occurs on the face and/or anus. Depending on the severity of the reaction, it may take two weeks to three months for a cat to recover once the offending allergen is removed.

=== Food dangerous to cats ===
A number of common human foods and household ingestibles are toxic to cats, including chocolate solids, onion, garlic, avocados, grapes, raisins, coffee, tomato and tomato leaves, and milk.

Phenolic compounds such as those in [[TCP (antiseptic)|TCP]] are harmful to cats.&lt;ref&gt;[http://ashleigh-veterinary-centre.com/information-sheets/feline/disinfectants/ Ashleigh Veterinary Centre: disinfectants]&lt;/ref&gt;

=== Malnutrition ===
[[Malnutrition]] in cats is currently uncommon due to complete and balanced diets being formulated and fed.&lt;ref name=&quot;:14&quot;&gt;{{Cite journal|last=Watson|first=Tim D. G.|date=1998-12-01|title=Diet and Skin Disease in Dogs and Cats|url=http://jn.nutrition.org/content/128/12/2783S|journal=The Journal of Nutrition|language=en|volume=128|issue=12|pages=2783S–2789S|issn=0022-3166|pmid=9868266|doi=10.1093/jn/128.12.2783S|doi-access=free}}&lt;/ref&gt; Yet it can still occur if the cat's food intake decreases beyond what the food can provide, if interactions occur between ingredients or nutrients, if mistakes are made during formulation or manufacturing, and if the food is stored for a lengthy amount of time.&lt;ref name=&quot;:14&quot; /&gt; If a cat becomes malnourished, a deficiency of energy, protein, taurine, essential fatty acids, minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium), vitamins (A, D, E, thiamine, niacin, biotin), and trace elements (iron, copper, zinc, iodine, selenium) can occur, causing a multitude of deficiency symptoms.&lt;ref name=&quot;:12&quot;&gt;{{cite book|title=The Cat: Clinical Medicine and Management|last1=Bartges|first1=Joe|last2=Raditic|first2=Donna|last3=Kirk|first3=Claudia|last4=Witzel|first4=Angela|date=2012|publisher=Elsevier Inc.}}&lt;/ref&gt;

For information about a correct cat diet, see [[Cat food]].

==== Central retinal degeneration ====
One of the cat diseases caused by malnutrition is [[Retinal degeneration (rhodopsin mutation)|central retinal deficiency]], a dysfunction in cats that can be hereditary as well.&lt;ref&gt;{{Cite journal|last=Belhorn|first=R.W.|title=Feline central retinal degeneration|journal=Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci|volume=13|pages=608–616}}&lt;/ref&gt;

The [[retina]], a thin layer of tissue in the back of the eye, is the structure affected by this disorder. This structure receives the light gathered and focused from the [[Lens (anatomy)|lens]].&lt;ref name=&quot;:13&quot;&gt;{{Cite web|url=http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm|title=Progressive Retinal Atrophy/Degeneration in Cats (PRA, PRD)|last=Smith|first=Marty|date=Fall 2017|website=peteducation.com|access-date=2018-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020215222758/http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm|archive-date=2002-02-15|url-status=dead}}&lt;/ref&gt; It essentially takes light and converts it into electrical nerve signals that the brain interprets as vision. The retina contains rods and cones, which are photo-receptors that help the animal see (rods) and visualize certain colors (cones).&lt;ref name=&quot;:13&quot; /&gt;

Retinal degeneration can be caused by a [[taurine]] deficiency, which is why many [[cat food]]s are supplemented with taurine.&lt;ref&gt;{{Cite journal|last=Lenox |first=C.|date=Fall 2017|title=Metabolic bone disease ad central retinal degeneration in a kitten due to nutritional inadequacy of an all-meat raw diet|journal=J Feline Med Surg|volume=1|issue=1|pages=205511691557968|doi=10.1177/2055116915579682|pmid=28491346|pmc=5362880}}&lt;/ref&gt;&lt;ref&gt;{{cite journal | last1 = Hayes | first1 = K. C. | last2 = Carey | first2 = Richard E. | last3 = Schmidt | first3 = Susan Y. | year = 1975 | title = Retinal Degeneration Associated with Taurine Deficiency in the Cat | journal = Science | volume = 188 | issue = 4191| pages = 949–951 | doi=10.1126/science.1138364 | pmid = 1138364| bibcode = 1975Sci...188..949H }}&lt;/ref&gt; Central retinal deficiency is irreversible, but its effects can be significantly hindered if a diet supplemented with adequate amounts of taurine is provided. Vitamin deficiencies in A and E can also lead to retinal degeneration in cats.

=== Obesity ===
{{see also|Obesity in pets }}
Neutering and overfeeding have contributed to increased obesity in domestic cats, especially in developed countries. Obesity in cats has similar effects as in humans, and will increase the risk of [[Cardiovascular disease|heart disease]], [[diabetes mellitus]], etc., thereby shortening the cat's lifespan.

== Non-therapeutic surgical procedures ==
* [[Neutering|Spaying and neutering]]
* [[Onychectomy]] (declawing)

== Dangers in urban environment ==
* [[High–rise syndrome]]
* [[Vehicles]]

=== Toxic substances ===
The [[American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals|ASPCA]] lists some common sources of toxins&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web 
 |url=http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/a-poison-safe-home 
 |title=A Poison Safe Home 
 |work=Animal Poison Control Center 
 |access-date=2012-07-08 
 |publisher=American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) 
 |url-status=dead 
 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120608073404/http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/a-poison-safe-home 
 |archive-date=2012-06-08 
 }}&lt;/ref&gt; that pets encounter, including: plants,&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web
| url = http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/
| title = Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
| work = Animal Poison Control Center
| access-date = 2012-07-08
| publisher = American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
}}&lt;/ref&gt; human medications and cosmetics,&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web 
 |url=http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/human-medications-and-cosmetics.aspx 
 |title=Human Medications and Cosmetics 
 |work=Animal Poison Control Center 
 |access-date=2012-07-08 
 |publisher=American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) 
 |url-status=dead 
 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120624221809/http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/human-medications-and-cosmetics.aspx 
 |archive-date=2012-06-24 
 }}&lt;/ref&gt; cleaning products,&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web 
 |url=http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/cleaning-products-2.aspx 
 |title=Cleaning Products 
 |work=Animal Poison Control Center 
 |access-date=2012-07-08 
 |publisher=American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) 
 |url-status=dead 
 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120622052413/http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/cleaning-products-2.aspx 
 |archive-date=2012-06-22 
 }}&lt;/ref&gt; and even foods.&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web 
 |url=http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/people-foods.aspx 
 |title=People Foods 
 |work=Animal Poison Control Center 
 |access-date=2012-07-08 
 |publisher=American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) 
 |url-status=dead 
 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120806083523/http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/ask-the-expert/ask-the-expert-poison-control/people-foods.aspx 
 |archive-date=2012-08-06 
 }}&lt;/ref&gt;

Some houseplants are harmful to cats. For example, the leaves of the [[Lilium longiflorum|Easter Lily]] can cause permanent and life-threatening kidney damage to cats, and [[Philodendron]] are also poisonous to cats. The [[Cat Fanciers' Association]] has a full list of plants harmful to cats.&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web|url=http://www.cfainc.org/articles/plants.html |title=Plants and Your Cat |publisher=The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc. |access-date=2007-05-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100326074750/http://www.cfainc.org/articles/plants.html |archive-date=2010-03-26 }}&lt;/ref&gt;

[[Paracetamol]] or acetaminophen (trade name [[Panadol]] and [[Tylenol]]) is extremely toxic to [[cat]]s, and should not be given to them under any circumstances. Cats lack the necessary glucuronyl transferase enzymes to safely break paracetamol down and minute portions of a normal tablet for humans may prove fatal.&lt;ref name=&quot;CanVetJ2003-Allen&quot;&gt;{{Cite journal|last=Allen|first=A. L.|date=1 June 2003|title=The Diagnosis of Acetaminophen Toxicosis in a Cat|journal=Canadian Veterinary Journal|volume=44|issue=6|pages=509–510|pmc=340185|pmid=12839249}}&lt;/ref&gt; Initial symptoms include vomiting, salivation and discolouration of the tongue and gums. After around two days, liver damage is evident, typically giving rise to [[jaundice]]. Unlike an overdose in humans, it is rarely liver damage that is the cause of death; instead, [[methaemoglobin]] formation and the production of [[Heinz bodies]] in red blood cells inhibit oxygen transport by the blood, causing [[asphyxiation]]. Effective treatment is occasionally possible for small doses, but must be extremely rapid.

[[Salicylate]]s, such as [[aspirin]], can cause toxicosis when administered improperly.&lt;ref&gt;{{cite book |last1=Dorman |first1=David C. |editor1-last=Bonagura |editor1-first=John D. |editor2-last=Twedt |editor2-first=David C. |title=Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy |date=1 December 2013 |publisher=Elsevier Health Sciences |isbn=9780323227629  |edition=15th |chapter=Over-the-Counter Drug Toxicosis}}&lt;/ref&gt; Similarly, application of [[minoxidil]] ([[Rogaine (drug)|Rogaine]]) to the skin of cats, either accidentally or by well-meaning owners attempting to counter loss of fur, has sometimes proved fatal.&lt;ref&gt;{{cite journal | author = Camille DeClementi |author2=Keith L. Bailey|author3=Spencer C. Goldstein|author4=Michael Scott Orser | title = Suspected toxicosis after topical administration of minoxidil in 2 cats | journal = Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care |date=December 2004 | pages = 287–292 | volume = 14 | issue = 4 | doi = 10.1111/j.1476-4431.2004.04014.x}}&lt;/ref&gt;&lt;ref&gt;{{cite web | url = http://showcatsonline.com/x/minoxidil.htm | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070103001500/http://showcatsonline.com/x/minoxidil.htm | archive-date = 2007-01-03 | title = Minoxidil Warning | access-date = 2007-01-18 | publisher = ShowCatsOnline.com | quote = Very small amounts of Minoxidil can result [in] serious problems or death}}&lt;/ref&gt;

In addition to such obvious dangers as [[insecticide]]s and [[weed killer]]s, other common household substances that should be used with caution in areas where cats may be exposed include [[mothball]]s and other [[naphthalene]] products,{{citation needed|date=March 2024}} as well as [[phenol]]-based products often used for cleaning and disinfecting near cats' feeding areas or litter boxes, such as [[Pine-Sol]], [[Dettol]] (Lysol), [[hexachlorophene]], etc.{{citation needed|date=March 2024}} which, although they are widely used without problem, have been sometimes seen to be fatal.&lt;ref&gt;{{cite journal |vauthors=Rousseaux CG, Smith RA, Nicholson S | title = Acute Pinesol toxicity in a domestic cat | journal = Vet Hum Toxicol | year = 1986 | pages = 316–7 | volume = 28 | issue = 4 | pmid = 3750813}}&lt;/ref&gt; Essential oils are toxic to cats and there have been reported cases of serious illnesses caused by [[tea tree oil]] and tea tree oil-based flea treatments and shampoos.&lt;ref&gt;{{cite journal
 | url=http://www.vet-task-force.com/Abstract-tea-tree-oil.htm
 | title=Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil Poisoning in three purebred cats
 | journal=Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation
 |author1=K. Bischoff |author2=F. Guale | volume=10
 | issue=108
 | pages=208–210
 | year=1998
 | access-date=2006-10-17
 
 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061015234207/http://www.vet-task-force.com/Abstract-tea-tree-oil.htm
 | archive-date=October 15, 2006
 | doi=10.1177/104063879801000223| pmid=9576358
 | doi-access=free
 }}&lt;/ref&gt;&lt;ref&gt;[http://www.messybeast.com/teatree.htm TEA TREE OIL - TOXIC TO CATS]&lt;/ref&gt;&lt;ref&gt;[http://www.thelavendercat.com/3201/index.html Be Wary of Aromatherapy Claims for Cats] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080727011937/http://www.thelavendercat.com/3201/index.html |date=2008-07-27 }}&lt;/ref&gt;

Many human foods are somewhat toxic to cats; [[theobromine]] in [[chocolate]] can cause [[theobromine poisoning]], for instance, although few cats will eat chocolate. Toxicity in cats ingesting relatively large amounts of [[onion]]s or [[garlic]] has also been reported.{{citation needed|date=March 2024}}

Cats may be poisoned by many chemicals usually considered safe by their human guardians,{{citation needed|date=March 2024}} because their livers are less effective at some forms of [[detoxification]].&lt;ref name=&quot;MacDonald&quot;&gt;{{Cite journal
 |title=Nutrition of the domestic cat, a mammalian carnivore
 |last1=MacDonald
 |first1=M. L.
 |last2=Rogers
 |first2=Q. R.
 |last3=Morris
 |first3=J. G.
 |journal=Annual Review of Nutrition
 |volume=4
 |pages=521–562
 |year=1984
 |pmid=6380542
 |doi=10.1146/annurev.nu.04.070184.002513
}}&lt;/ref&gt;&lt;ref name=&quot;Williams 1978&quot;&gt;{{Cite journal
 |last=Williams
 |first=R. T.
 |title=Species Variations in the Pathways of Drug Metabolism
 |journal=Environmental Health Perspectives
 |volume=22
 |pages=133–138
 |date=1 February 1978
 |pmid=417918
 |pmc=1637137
 |doi=10.2307/3428562
 |jstor=3428562
}}&lt;/ref&gt; Some of the most common causes of poisoning in cats are antifreeze and rodent baits.&lt;ref name=&quot;Rowland 1987&quot;&gt;{{Cite journal
 |last=Rowland
 |first=J.
 |title=Incidence of Ethylene Glycol Intoxication in Dogs and Cats Seen at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital
 |journal=Vet Hum Toxicol
 |volume=29
 |issue=1
 |pages=41–44
 |year=1987
 |pmid=3824875
}}&lt;/ref&gt; Cats may be particularly sensitive to environmental pollutants.
&lt;ref name=&quot;Potera 2007&quot;&gt;{{Cite journal
 |last=Potera
 |first=C.
 |title=Chemical Exposures: Cats as Sentinel Species
 |journal=Environmental Health Perspectives
 |volume=115
 |issue=12
 |page=A580
 |year=2007
 |pmid=18087575
 |pmc=2137107
 |doi=10.1289/ehp.115-a580a
}}&lt;/ref&gt;

==== Ethylene glycol (antifreeze) poisoning ====
Cats can succumb quickly from [[ethylene glycol poisoning]], after ingesting as little as one teaspoon.&lt;ref name=&quot;Pet poison help line&quot;/&gt; The primary source of ethylene glycol is automotive [[antifreeze]] or radiator coolant, where concentrations are high.&lt;ref name=&quot;Pet poison help line&quot;/&gt; Other sources of antifreeze include windshield deicing agents, [[brake fluid]], motor oil, developing solutions for hobby photographers, wood stains, solvents, and paints.&lt;ref name=&quot;Pet poison help line&quot;/&gt;  Some people put antifreeze into their cabin's toilet to prevent it from freezing during the winter, resulting in toxicities when animals drink from the toilet.&lt;ref name=&quot;Pet poison help line&quot;/&gt; Small amounts of antifreeze may be contained in ornaments such as [[snow globes]].&lt;ref name=&quot;Pet poison help line&quot;/&gt; A cat suspected of having ingested ethylene glycol requires immediate veterinary treatment, to receive an antidote within three hours. The earlier the treatment is started, the greater the chance of survival.&lt;ref name=&quot;Washington State University on Antifreeze Poisoning&quot;/&gt;

==== Cat Life Span ====
A cat's life span can depend on various factors such as diet, exercise, sex, breed, living conditions, and other factors that can change the length. However, how long does the average cat live? According to the article &quot;Longevity and mortality in cats...&quot; by Michael S. Kent and Authors, &quot;The median age of death for spayed female cats was 10.28 years&quot;.&lt;ref&gt;
  Kent, Michael S, Sophie Karchemskiy, William T. N Culp, Amandine T Lejeune, Patricia A Pesavento, Christine Toedebusch, Rachel Brady, and Robert Rebhun. “Longevity and Mortality in Cats: A Single Institution Necropsy Study of 3108 Cases (1989–2019).” PloS One 17, no. 12 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0278199.
&lt;/ref&gt; While they state that &quot;the median age of death for castrated males was 9.55 years (IQR 5.30-12.83 years; range 0.18-21.19 years)&quot; &lt;ref name=&quot;doi.org&quot;&gt;Kent, Michael S., et al. “Longevity and Mortality in Cats: A Single Institution Necropsy Study of 3108 Cases (1989–2019).” PloS One, vol. 17, no. 12, e0278199, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0278199.&lt;/ref&gt; However, &quot;The median age at death for indoor only cats was 9.43 years (IQR 4.8-13.11 years, range 0.11-21.85 years) while the median age at death for indoor outdoor cats was 9.82 years (IQR 5.3-13.13 years, range 0.06-21.19 years) and the median age for outdoor cats was 7.25 years (IQR 1.78-11.92 years, range 0.12-20.64 years)&quot;&lt;ref name=&quot;doi.org&quot;/&gt; All embracing, various facts play into the longevity and overall health in a cat's life.

== References ==
{{reflist|2|refs=
&lt;ref name=&quot;Pet poison help line&quot;&gt;
[http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/2011/02/antifreeze-poisoning-in-dogs-cats-ethylene-glycol-poisoning/ &quot;Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs &amp; Cats (Ethylene Glycol Poisoning)&quot;], Pet Poison Helpline, accessed Sept. 11, 2014.&lt;/ref&gt;

&lt;ref name=&quot;Washington State University on Antifreeze Poisoning&quot;&gt;[http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/cliented/antifreeze.aspx &quot;College of Veterinary Medicine: Pet Health Topics: Antifreeze Poisoning&quot;] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150210050224/http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/ClientED/antifreeze.aspx |date=2015-02-10 }}, Washington State University, accessed Sept. 11, 2014.&lt;/ref&gt;
}}

== External links ==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100718174020/http://www.aahanet.org/PublicDocuments/FelineLifeStageGuidelines.pdf 2010 AAFP/AAHA Feline Life Stage Guidelines]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20020720150545/http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp The Merck Veterinary Manual]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20081218001742/http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/hinformation.htm Cat health info] Cornell Feline Health Center
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110507235245/http://oldvet.com/notes-on-acetaminophen-toxicosis-in-cats/ Notes on Acetaminophen Toxicosis in Cats]
* [http://indoorpet.osu.edu/cats/ Ohio State University, College of Veterinary Medicine: Indoor pet initiative: For cat owners] - discusses cat needs and how to meet them, problem solve and avoid common stressors
{{domestic cat}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Cat Health}}
[[Category:Cat health| ]]
[[Category:Animal welfare]]
[[Category:Cat diseases]]