Skip to content

Why does my cat have a swollen abdomen?

Why does my cat have a swollen abdomen?

In this disease, swelling of the abdomen is a symptom of the virus which infects internal organs. According to Pet Health Network, cats that are at risk for this type of infection include those in a multi-cat shelter or household and those who are regularly outdoors.

Why does my cat vomit all the time?

There are many possible reasons why a cat struggles to digest food. Dry food is particularly hard for a feline stomach to process, and often sits heavy in the gut. If your pet eats more than their stomach can process, it will often reappear as vomit. Alternatively, your cat may have a blockage that prevents them from digesting.

Why does my kitten have a cyst in her abdomen?

This is the most common reason for ascites in younger cats/kittens. Cats may also become infected by eating flies or cockroaches that carry Isospora cysts. Isospora infections usually cause no problems in adult cats but can cause significant disease in younger cats or kittens.

Is it normal for a cat’s stomach to make gurgling noises?

As cats have small stomachs, the sound is just quieter. A cat’s stomach gurgling is common after a cat eats food. If the cat is otherwise acting normally and showing no signs of discomfort, do not worry. Just check for any sudden changes in demeanor. That said, a cat’s stomach should not gurgle constantly.

What are the symptoms of an upset stomach in a cat?

“Symptoms of an upset stomach in a cat include licking the lips, which is a sign of nausea, vomiting and refusing to eat,” says Dr. Elizabeth Arguelles, medical director and founder of Just Cats Clinic in Reston, Virginia.

When does a cat get a swollen abdomen?

Your cat developed a swollen abdomen overnight or over the course of several days. Your cat developed a swollen abdomen over the course of several weeks or months. Discuss your cat’s eating patterns. Your cat’s appetite is likely connected to their swollen abdomen.

Why does my cat have a rumbling stomach?

Cats can experience inflammatory bowel disease, while kidney issues and hyperthyroidism can also lead to strange sounds coming from the stomach. A cat’s rumbling stomach could be due to the digestive process, but it could also be a warning of something more concerning.

What causes severe stomach bloating in kittens?

In kittens, mild to severe stomach bloating can develop from one of these causes: Infection in mother cat’s mammary glands or uterus lead to toxic milk syndrome Improperly mixed milk replacement formulas Spoiled replacement milk or abnormal cat’s milk

What causes abdominal distension in older female cats?

Older cats or unwell cats can lose muscle mass which allows the abdomen to look enlarged. During pregnancy, a female cat’s uterus will expand rapidly. Determining the reason for abdominal distention is something that needs to be done by a veterinary professional, as certain issues can be life-threatening.

How can I tell if my cat has a tumor in his stomach?

When the cat has abdominal distension due to tumors, the belly area either enlarges or becomes loose and flabby. The tumor is a rigid mass which means the cat’s stomach feels hard. We might also see other symptoms such as: Only the vet can give an accurate diagnosis, especially because many of these symptoms also present with various diseases.

What does it mean when your cat’s belly is swollen?

Many types of swelling go away on their own, however, certain swelling can be diagnosed as severe health conditions. If your cat is diagnosed with a viral infection, prognosis may be guarded. Painful abdominal swelling from feline infectious peritonitis generally indicates a very poor life expectancy.

How to determine the cause of abdominal enlargement in cats?

Affected animals typically have abdominal enlargement due to enlargement of the liver, accumulation of fat in the abdomen, and a weakened body wall. How do we determine the cause of abdominal enlargement in my cat? The search for answers starts with a complete history and physical examination.

Can a 13 year old cat have a swollen tummy?

Have just taken 13yr old Nala to vets with VERY swollen tummy; he’s always been ultra skinny. He’s content and affectionate, dsn’t seem to be in any pain even when abdomen area touched and eating well. Vet wouldnt give any suggestions as to wot cd be wrong until after bloodtests and ultrasound next week.

This is the most common reason for ascites in younger cats/kittens. Cats may also become infected by eating flies or cockroaches that carry Isospora cysts. Isospora infections usually cause no problems in adult cats but can cause significant disease in younger cats or kittens.

What should I expect from my 4 month old kitten?

His fuzz gives way to a sleek coat. His eyes change from baby blue to mysterious cat shades of gold or green or even ice blue. Yes, your kitten is growing up. And he’s blasting his way toward adolescence. During the next few months, your kitten’s deciduous, or baby, teeth will fall out.

What should I do about my cat’s swollen belly?

Encouraging your cat to exercise can be a bit trickier. Finding toys that stimulate the cat or even “treat balls” that make them work for a piece of a treat are great ways to get your cat moving again. A swollen belly is always a cause for concern, and your cat should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

What to expect from a 5 month old kitten?

A 5 month old kitten will show some physiological changes that make them appear more like an adult cat; however, they are still a cute kitty that needs your care not less than before. There are some physical and behavioral changes that you can expect from your kitten.

Why does my 4 month old kitten bite my feet?

She will even bite our feet sometimes when we are laying in bed, or arms when we are hardly paying attention to her. When she does bite we either yell “Ouch!” or “No!” or “Bad!” immediately, stop playing or petting her right away, and sometimes even clamp her mouth shut briefly with our fingers when she does.

What should you expect from a 16 year old cat?

By now your cat is noticeably less active than she used to be. She might avoid some activities she used to enjoy, perhaps because she has lost interest, or because they cause her discomfort. As cats age, sometimes they become more aggressive, overreacting to loud or strange sounds or new people.

How does old age affect a cat’s health?

When a cat ages, a greater burden is placed upon its internal organs. Old age is not so much the killer as are the complications that arise during your cat’s last years. When your cat is aging, you may find: Your veterinary visits will increase dramatically.

Why does my cat have a sensitive stomach?

Gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances are commonly caused by poorly digestible foods, food allergies or food additives/flavorings/preservatives. Many times, a diet that’s formulated to address your cat’s sensitive stomach can ease and even resolve the problem.

When to take your cat to the vet for an upset stomach?

If your cat won’t eat for more than 48 hours, then it’s time to get your vet involved. While cat upset stomach can be unpleasant for your kitty, it’s not unsolvable. Proper veterinary care and nutrition will resolve most cats’ tummy issues — and hopefully, save your carpet as well.

What foods can cause upset stomach in cats?

Cats can experience food allergies that cause gastrointestinal upset. Of all the components of the diet, the protein source is the most likely to cause food allergies. Your cat can be allergic to any protein that they have been exposed to. For example, rabbit and chicken may both cause a food allergy.

Is it normal for a female cat’s breast to swell?

Always seek medical attention if you notice nipple or mammary gland swelling in a cat. In the non-pregnant cat, nipples can be hard to find under the cat’s thick layer of fur. A female cat’s nipples will pink up and become enlarged from the third week of pregnancy, which is perfectly normal.

Why is my kitten dragging his behind on the floor?

The most likely cause is “scooting.” This is when a cat (or kitten) drags its behind along the floor or ground. Of course, the anus will become irritated and swollen because of the repeated contact. But the big question is: Why is your kitten scooting in the first place?

Why does my kitten have a lot of swelling?

Cats who have immune system deficiencies are prone to more health problems that often create swelling within the body. Kittens are also more susceptible to swelling, however, this is mainly due to worm infections.

Always seek medical attention if you notice nipple or mammary gland swelling in a cat. In the non-pregnant cat, nipples can be hard to find under the cat’s thick layer of fur. A female cat’s nipples will pink up and become enlarged from the third week of pregnancy, which is perfectly normal.

What to do if your cat has swelling on his side?

To help pinpoint the cause of swelling your cat, you will need to bring your cat’s full medical history to a veterinarian. The vet will perform a complete physical examination of the cat. During this examination, the vet will attempt to specify the side and location that swelling is more prominent on.

Why does my cat have fluid in her stomach?

Some Causes of Feline Swollen Stomach Fluid accumulation due to intestinal tumor Intestines severely affected with parasites that causes fluid accumulation Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Inflammation in and around the stomach Enlarged organs Cancer

Why does my cat have a swollen stomach?

Look for signs of metabolic or digestive issues. Metabolic and digestive issues (like diabetes and colitis) may be one of the most common causes of swollen abdomen in cats. Common signs include change in appetite, weight change, and/or a decline in energy level.

How is a cat’s stomach supposed to feel?

If your cat likes a good belly rub, then you know when she’s happy her stomach is soft, palpable and comfortable to your touch. However, if you notice her stomach is starting to look distended, feels firm or she acts painful, these are signs something could be wrong.

What is cat edema?

Pulmonary Edema in Cats. Pulmonary edema is a condition that occurs in cats when there is an excessive buildup of fluid in the air sacs of the lungs, known as alveoli. Under normal conditions, a minute amount of fluid is retained within these air sacs and continuously drained by the lymph nodes.

When to wean a kitten from fading kitten syndrome?

Newborn kittens should be fed formula or milk every two hours. Weaning onto mush can begin at approximately four weeks of age. A kitten lost to fading kitten syndrome can sometimes be a harbinger of problems for the littermates.

How often should a cat have a bowel movement?

Cats’ bowel movements often vary, but most cats will poop at least once a day. Normally, the poop is a rich brown color and should look well-formed. If your cat is pooping less frequently and having some difficulty, she may be constipated or obstipated.

Is it possible to tame a feral kitten?

Those adult stray cats that were once owned, or feral cats of quiet temperament, may sometimes be tamed with patience. But a feral kitten is often easily tamed if it is captured young enough. Considering the short, miserable lives that feral cats suffer, those kittens that can be tamed and adopted by humans are indeed lucky.

Where does a feral cat give birth to a kitten?

Feral moms usually give birth in quiet, unseen spots where kittens will not be visible for several weeks. With no human contact, they will be totally wild. When kittens begin to romp and play, they are first noticed by humans but are not easily captured.

When to worry about a kitten’s pot belly?

If the kitten is being reared by its mother, it may be several weeks before its condition is noticed. If it is being hand-reared, you will soon notice a problem. This condition can create a swollen stomach, or pot-belly appearance. Sometimes a Partial Blockage occurs, where some stool is released but some is retained within the body cavity.

Why does my 18 year old cat have a lump in her stomach?

My 18-year-old cat has developed a lump in her stomach she’s not eating or drinking or going to the bathroom at all. She cries when touched or she’s picked up. I took her to the vet two weeks ago they did an x-ray and said there was nothing wrong but the other night I went to give her a bath and found a mass in her stomach.

Why does my senior cat walk with a limp?

The likeliest explanation for limping in senior cats is arthritis. Cats of any age can develop this condition. It becomes worsens as a cat’s age reaches double figures. It is unlikely that a cat aged 12 or older will not be arthritic. The first sign of arthritis in cats is a slowing of physical activity.

What causes a cat’s paw to swell up and hurt?

Certain breeds of spiders will also cause a cat’s paw to swell up, and resultant limping. The bite or sting may not hurt if the bug was small, but can make it harder for your cat to walk. Certain plants can harm a cat’s paws. If your cat steps on stinging nettles, its paws will feel uncomfortable.

What are the symptoms of a swollen cat belly?

Symptoms 1 Weight loss. 2 Loss of appetite. 3 Fever. 4 Constipation. 5 Diarrhea. 6 (more items)

Can a 6 week old kitten get FIP?

However, if they have weakened immune systems the virus will uncontrollably multiply. Kittens from 4 to 6 weeks and adult cats over 10 years of age are highly susceptible to FIP. This disease is fatal and you should watch for symptoms in your cat.

Why does my cat have a swollen Butt?

One common problem you might experience with a cat butt is swollen anal glands. The anal glands, located on either side of the anal opening, secrete an important scent that coats the poop and is used for marking.

What are the signs of old age in cats?

Signs of senility in some individuals, senses less acute, injuries heal more slowly or incompletely. Internal organs less efficient. 17-19 years 83-92 years Probably frail due to loss of bone density, subcutaneous fat and muscle tone.

Why does my cat swish his tail from side to side?

When your cat slowly swishes their tail from side to side, they may be intently focused on something like a toy, another animal in the home, or something outside. They may be about to pounce!

Can a cat have muscle contractions while sleeping?

It is not uncommon for muscle contraction disease to affect cats while they sleep, abruptly waking the feline. Types. Nocturnal Myoclonus: Sleep induced involuntary muscle contractions. Congenital Myoclonus: The cat is born with involuntary muscle contractions and the spasms occur for no known reason.

What causes involuntary muscle spasms in a cat?

Congenital Myoclonus: The cat is born with involuntary muscle contractions and the spasms occur for no known reason. Active Myoclonus: Involuntary muscle contractions are triggered by a cat’s movement or wanting to move.

What happens when the stomach of a cat stops working?

Interruptions in the working of the stomach of a cat can be brought on by several conditions. When the stomach is interrupted in its normal operation, a condition called stasis can result. Stasis occurs when the stomach slows its contractions, and may even stop working altogether.

In this disease, swelling of the abdomen is a symptom of the virus which infects internal organs. According to Pet Health Network, cats that are at risk for this type of infection include those in a multi-cat shelter or household and those who are regularly outdoors.

Why does my cat have gas in her stomach?

This leads to bloating and build-up of gas in the stomach, which can be an uncomfortable condition for an animal. The main symptoms of stasis in cats are: When movement (motility) of the stomach slows or stops, there are many things to consider as possible causes.

Why are my cat’s paws sore and swollen?

Then his other front paw swelled up, and the soaking routine healed it in about a week. Now his right rear foot is sore and crusty, and it doesn’t seem to be healing as quickly. His toes are swollen, the skin between his paw pad and toes is starting to open up.

Signs of senility in some individuals, senses less acute, injuries heal more slowly or incompletely. Internal organs less efficient. 17-19 years 83-92 years Probably frail due to loss of bone density, subcutaneous fat and muscle tone.

How old should a 17 year old cat be?

17-19 years 83-92 years Probably frail due to loss of bone density, subcutaneous fat and muscle tone. Skin more fragile. Hearing, sight and mobility affected.

How old is my 15 year old cat?

My 15 year old female cat was diagnosed 11 days ago with a severe UTI. She has been on pain meds and antibiotics since then. She is using the litter … Hey Thanks in advance for answering my questions; here’s what I need… I adopted a one year old male cat from a friend a week ago, at his old house …

Why is my 18 year old cat meowing all the time?

Thomas: The shaking limbs could be a symptom of arthritic pain. If your cat seems to move more slowly or carefully when she first wakes up, this may be another sign of discomfort. Dahlia: One of Mama’s friends has an 18-year-old cat that was crying a lot.

How old is the Kitten I got from the hurricane?

I got the kitten from the … hi there – i recently (this week) took in a semi-feral stray cat. she had been coming to my house since right after the hurricane on the east coast. … We adopted our Persian cat, about a year ago. I’d say he is about 4 or 5 years old.

When does a cat become an older cat?

Generally, once your cat is over 12 years old, it is an ‘older cat’ and its needs and habits change. Popular belief has it that one year of a cat’s life is equivalent to 7 human years.

Have just taken 13yr old Nala to vets with VERY swollen tummy; he’s always been ultra skinny. He’s content and affectionate, dsn’t seem to be in any pain even when abdomen area touched and eating well. Vet wouldnt give any suggestions as to wot cd be wrong until after bloodtests and ultrasound next week.

Why is my cat limping all of a sudden?

Some causes of limping in cats do present more obvious symptoms. If your cat has swelling on the leg, then it is likely there is something more seriously wrong with it. The swelling is generally caused by one of two things: Infection: when an infection is present, the body’s immune response kicks in and send antibodies to the infection site.

Why does my kitten have a limp on her leg?

Lameness in younger cats and kittens can be due to several reasons. One example could be inflammation of the bones (Panosteitis), this is a painful condition that affects the cat’s long leg bones and is characterized by limping and lameness.

What are the symptoms of fluid in the abdomen in cats?

Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with fluid in the abdomen in domestic cats: Weight loss; Vomiting; Lethargy; Overall weakness; Groaning noises while in a lying position; Abdominal distention Discomfort when the abdominal area is pressed; Male cats may have swollen scrotum; Difficulty breathing

When does a scratch from a cat become infected?

It is important to pay attention to scratches, no matter how small, advises Dr Suranjith Seneviratne, an immunologist at the Royal Free Hospital, London. An infected scratch will usually start to look red and infected, and the lymph node will start to swell near the wound after ten days.

Is it normal for a cat’s face to swell up?

If you notice your cat’s face looks puffier than usual, he could be suffering from facial swelling. It may be difficult to spot swelling at first, but as it worsens, your cat’s eyes may begin to close as the surrounding area swells. The signs of facial swelling can come on suddenly or develop over time, depending on the underlying cause.

How can I tell if my cat’s eyes are swollen?

It may be difficult to spot swelling at first, but as it worsens, your cat’s eyes may begin to close as the surrounding area swells. The signs of facial swelling can come on suddenly or develop over time, depending on the underlying cause.

Why does my cat have swelling in her head?

However, localized swelling can also be caused by tumors, which the veterinarian may be able to feel during the physical examination. If no cause is determined after the physical examination, the veterinarian may perform X-rays or an ultrasound to check for tumors in the head or neck.

How old is a 16 year old cat?

By age 16 your cat’s physical and mental development is very much like that of an 80-year-old person. She has definitely slowed down physically (relative to her prime adult years)and may have developed a number of health problems.

What do you call swelling in a cat?

This reaction is referred to as “edema” (swelling). Many issues that cause swelling are harmless to the cat, however, larger health problems may be found when swelling is present. Swelling can happen in any body part. To determine the cause of swelling, all other symptoms present in the cat must be recorded to help identify any underlying issues.

What is the prognosis for swelling in cats?

If your cat is diagnosed with a viral infection, prognosis may be guarded. Painful abdominal swelling from feline infectious peritonitis generally indicates a very poor life expectancy. If cancer is the cause, it may be treatable or terminal depending on the location and progression.

Why does my kitten have a hard belly?

Perhaps the most common cause of a hard or swollen belly in kittens is internal parasites. If you pick the kitten up, you may be able to see they have a distended abdomen.

Why does my cat have a swollen belly?

Abdominal inflammation in cats due to liver tumors. The presence of a tumor or tumors in the liver is another cause which may explain why a cat has a swollen or hard belly. This disorder is more common in older cats.

Does your cat have a swollen belly?

Cat belly or feline stomach may at times appear swollen . There are varying reasons why the belly swells and it’s a strong indicator that your cat is sick. The digestive system processes ingested food, absorbs nutrients and eliminates waste. Intestines severely affected with parasites that causes fluid accumulation

What is the cause of a swollen belly on an old male cat?

Metabolic and digestive issues (like diabetes and colitis) may be one of the most common causes of swollen abdomen in cats. Common signs include change in appetite, weight change, and/or a decline in energy level.

Why does a cat have a swollen stomach?

Another reason that your cat may experience a swollen abdomen is from a virus known as Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). In this disease, swelling of the abdomen is a symptom of the virus which infects internal organs.

Is it normal for a cat’s foot to swell up?

Swollen Paws in Cats. A cat’s foot doesn’t swell up too often, so when it does, it is cause for concern. This condition is usually painful, so it will need to be checked by your veterinarian. What to Watch For. Swelling usually involves only one foot, sometimes only one toe.

Why are the pads of my cats paws swollen?

Plasma cell pododermatitis, in which one or more of the foot pads becomes swollen and soft, can sometimes be attributed to swollen paws. There is no proven treatment for this. It will eventually go away on its own, but it may reoccur.

What does it mean when your cat’s testicles are swollen?

As the cats in the above referenced studies show, they did not experience pain when their testes were manipulated. Effusive FIP results in fluid build up which feels softer to the touch and not hard as with orchitis. However, the difference between the symptoms can be subtle which is why it is so important to have a specialist examine your cat.

What causes a cat to have a distended abdomen?

Notice signs of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). FIP is a potentially fatal condition that starts as a viral infection and is common in areas or households with a high cat population. In addition to a distended abdomen, diarrhea is one of the most common signs of FIP.

Why do cats not like to have their belly rubbed?

Unlike dogs, most cats do not like having their belly rubbed. This is because their underside feels vulnerable. Only cats with high levels of trust in their guardians will let this happen. For this reason, it can be difficult to determine the condition of their belly.

What does it mean when a cat’s rectum is displaced?

Anal or rectal prolapse is a condition in which one or more layers of the cat’s rectum are displaced through the anus, the opening which allows digestive waste to leave the body.

To help pinpoint the cause of swelling your cat, you will need to bring your cat’s full medical history to a veterinarian. The vet will perform a complete physical examination of the cat. During this examination, the vet will attempt to specify the side and location that swelling is more prominent on.

What happens when your cat’s rectum is inflamed?

If either the rectum or anus are inflamed, the condition is referred to as proctitis. If your cat has proctitis, you will probably notice him straining to defecate, or crying in pain while doing so. When feces does pass, it may be smaller than usual and could contain fresh, red blood. You may notice that the tissue appears swollen and bright red.

Why do cats have secretions in their butts?

The secretions from cat anal glands are part of the unique smell that identifies individual cats. This is why cats often greet one another with mutual butt sniffs. 4. Cat anal glands can get impacted If the oily substance plugs the opening of the anal sacs, the secretions build up inside and can cause pain and discomfort.

What are the symptoms of a swollen vagina in cats?

Here are a few common symptoms to watch out for. Red or swollen vaginal area Light colored, mucus-like discharge Increased attention from male cats Scooting of rear end across surfaces Excessive grooming or licking Frequent urination or trips to the litter box without urinating

If either the rectum or anus are inflamed, the condition is referred to as proctitis. If your cat has proctitis, you will probably notice him straining to defecate, or crying in pain while doing so. When feces does pass, it may be smaller than usual and could contain fresh, red blood. You may notice that the tissue appears swollen and bright red.

What does it mean when a cat has swelling around the interstitium?

Peripheral Edema in Cats. Swelling due to an excessive accumulation of tissue fluid within the interstitium — a small place or gap in the substance of the cat’s tissues or organs — is referred to as edema. This can be localized (focal) or generalized (diffuse) in location.