Cat Diseases

Ringworm is a common skin infection in cats. It’s actually caused by a fungus, not a worm. It’s highly contagious between cats, but can also spread to dogs, other pets, and people. The disease usually causes patches of hair loss and scaly skin, though it can look very similar to other common skin conditions.

Mange is a skin disease caused by tiny mites that irritate the skin, causing itching, hair loss, crusts or sores. While mange is less common than fleas or ticks, it remains an important issue. Early detection and treatment usually lead to good recovery. There are several types of mange that can affect cats, each caused by a different species of mite.

Pyoderma in cats is a skin infection caused by bacteria. It happens when the skin gets damaged or irritated, making it easier for bacteria to cause problems. It’s less common in cats than in dogs, but pyoderma may affect cats of any age, breed, or sex. Fortunately, the condition is usually easy to identify and treat, allowing most cats to make a full recovery.

Hot spots in cats are patches of painful skin infection that can appear suddenly and spread quickly. They look red, moist, and sore, and often cause your cat to lick or scratch excessively. While hot spots can seem alarming, they are usually easy to treat if identified early. Cats of any age can be affected.

When you notice your cat squinting or pawing at their eye, it's natural to feel concerned. Eye ulcers, medically known as corneal ulcers, are among the most common yet serious eye conditions affecting cats in Dubai.

Coughing in cats can be anything from a mild irritation to a warning sign of serious breathing problems. While it helps clear the airways, a persistent cough shouldn’t be ignored as respiratory issues can escalate quickly and even become life-threatening. Cats of any age can be affected, though some breeds and age groups are more prone.

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that can cause diarrhoea, bloating and appetite loss in cats. While any cat may be affected, kittens and those with weaker immune systems are more vulnerable.

Overgrooming in cats is excessive self-grooming, often leading to hair loss, skin irritation and other health issues. This common problem affects cats of any age or breed and is a frequent reason for vet visits. Causes are complex, ranging from medical problems like skin infections or allergies, to behavioural triggers such as stress or anxiety. A thorough professional assessment is essential for effective treatment. Seek vet help if you notice bald patches or unusually long grooming sessions.

Conjunctivitis is a common eye problem in cats, characterised by redness, swelling, and discharge. While it can affect any cat, it’s particularly common in young cats and kittens. Although most cases are mild and respond well to prompt treatment, untreated conjunctivitis can lead to pain, spread to other cats and may even indicate a more serious underlying illness.

Broken bones in cats are extremely painful injuries that require immediate veterinary attention. They typically result from falls, road traffic accidents or animal bites. In Dubai's urban environment, cats face several risks including high-rise balconies, busy roads and extreme temperatures that can cause weakness leading to accidents. If you suspect your cat has a broken bone, handle them gently, avoid manipulating the injury, and seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Xylitol poisoning affects cats very differently from dogs. While even small amounts can be life-threatening for dogs, cats appear naturally resistant, except at extremely high doses. This resistance is thought to come from both their lack of interest in sweet foods and the way their bodies process the chemical. However, individual cats may still be vulnerable. While xylitol poisoning in cats is uncommon and typically less severe than in dogs, certain situations warrant immediate veterinary attention.

Wounds in cats are common and range from minor scratches to serious injuries that need urgent veterinary care. They can result from play, fights, or contact with sharp objects, and while small grazes may be managed at home, deeper wounds, bites, and burns require professional treatment.