Cat Disease Dictionary
Vet-supervised guide to 31 feline diseases: causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention
Infectious Diseases(6)
Feline Infectious Peritonitis(FIP)
A fatal disease caused by mutation of feline coronavirus. Wet type causes fluid accumulation, dry type causes granulomas. Most common in young cats and multi-cat environments.
Feline Leukemia Virus(FeLV)
A retrovirus causing immunosuppression, lymphoma, and anemia. Spread through close contact with infected cats (grooming, shared food bowls).
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus(FIV)
Also called feline AIDS, this virus gradually weakens the immune system. Primarily spread through bite wounds, most common in unneutered male cats.
Feline Calicivirus(FCV)
One of the main causes of upper respiratory infections, characterized by oral ulcers and respiratory symptoms. Highly contagious and spreads easily in multi-cat settings.
Feline Herpesvirus(FHV-1)
A primary cause of cat flu, causing upper respiratory symptoms and conjunctivitis. Once infected, cats become lifelong carriers with reactivation during stress.
Upper Respiratory Infection(URI)
Infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by multiple pathogens including herpesvirus and calicivirus, commonly known as 'cat flu'. More severe in kittens and immunocompromised cats.
Kidney & Urinary(4)
Chronic Kidney Disease(CKD)
A progressive disease where kidney function gradually declines. One of the most common causes of death in senior cats. Early symptoms are subtle, making regular screening essential.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease(FLUTD)
An umbrella term for conditions affecting the bladder and urethra, including idiopathic cystitis, urinary stones, and urethral obstruction. Male urethral blockage is an emergency.
Polycystic Kidney Disease(PKD)
A hereditary condition where multiple cysts (fluid-filled sacs) form in the kidneys. Particularly common in Persian-related breeds, progressing to chronic kidney disease.
Urolithiasis
Formation of stones in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Struvite and calcium oxalate stones are most common in cats.
Heart(2)
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy(HCM)
The most common cardiac disease in cats, where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick. Many breeds have genetic predisposition, and it can cause sudden death.
Thyroid Heart Disease
Heart disease secondary to hyperthyroidism. Excess thyroid hormones cause cardiac muscle thickening and dilation, potentially leading to heart failure.
Digestive(4)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease(IBD)
Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract causing prolonged vomiting and diarrhea. Believed to be caused by abnormal immune response, requiring long-term dietary and medical management.
Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas. Chronic form is more common in cats with subtle symptoms. Known to co-occur with IBD and cholangiohepatitis as 'triaditis.'
Hepatic Lipidosis
A potentially fatal liver disease unique to cats, triggered by 2-3+ days of not eating. Fat accumulates excessively in the liver. Obese cats that suddenly stop eating require emergency care.
Megacolon
Abnormal dilation of the colon that prevents normal peristalsis. Causes severe constipation and can be life-threatening if untreated.
Endocrine(2)
Skin(5)
Allergic Dermatitis
Skin inflammation from allergic reactions to food, environmental allergens, or fleas. Intense itching is characteristic, with hair loss from excessive grooming.
Dermatophytosis
A fungal skin infection causing circular hair loss and dandruff. A zoonotic disease (transmissible to humans) that spreads easily in multi-cat environments.
Ear Mites
Parasitic infection of the ear canal by Otodectes cynotis mites. Characterized by intense itching and dark brown ear discharge, most common in kittens.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis(FAD)
Dermatitis caused by hypersensitivity to allergens in flea saliva. Even a single flea bite can trigger severe symptoms in sensitized cats.
Feline Acne
A condition where black comedones (blackheads) form on the cat's chin. Mild cases are cosmetic, but secondary infections can cause swelling and pain.
Neurological(2)
Epilepsy
A condition with recurrent seizures caused by abnormal brain electrical activity. Classified as idiopathic (unknown cause) or symptomatic (associated with brain disease).
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome(CDS)
Cognitive decline in senior cats, similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. Characterized by disorientation, behavioral changes, and altered sleep patterns.
Dental(3)
Periodontal Disease
Inflammation of periodontal tissue from plaque/tartar buildup—the most common oral disease in cats. Untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and systemic health issues.
Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis(FCGS)
Severe inflammation throughout the oral cavity, causing far more intense pain than typical periodontal disease. Believed to be caused by immune system overreaction.
Tooth Resorption(FORL)
A condition where the cat's teeth are dissolved by its own cells. Found in 30-70% of cats over 3 years old, making it one of the most common feline dental conditions.