How I Almost Missed the Signs My Cat Was Sick
Date: July 23, 2025
A few months ago, I almost lost my beloved tabby, Nino. Looking back, the warning signs were there—only I didn’t see them for what they were. I want to share this story, not just as a cautionary tale, but also as a way to help you recognize the subtle signs of illness in your own cat before it’s too late.
The First Clues: Easy to Miss
It started with Nino skipping his breakfast. Just one morning. I assumed he was being picky or perhaps had eaten too much the night before. But when it happened again the next day, followed by more time spent under the couch and less time purring at my feet, I felt something shift inside me.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, subtle behavioral changes like these are among the first indicators of feline illness. Cats are notoriously good at hiding discomfort, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors.
When I Finally Took Action
Three days in, I noticed Nino’s eyes seemed a bit glassy, and his litter box visits were rare. My gut told me to call the vet, even though part of me felt silly. After all, he wasn't yowling in pain or limping. But thank goodness I did.
The vet diagnosed him with early-stage kidney disease—a condition surprisingly common in aging cats. She said we caught it just in time.
What I’ve Learned
If there’s one message I want fellow cat parents to hear, it's this: don’t wait for obvious signs. Lethargy, hiding, lack of appetite, or even just “acting off” is worth investigating. I now keep a daily log of Nino’s habits, eating, and mood, something I learned from the amazing community on r/cats.
Helpful Resources
- ASPCA: Illness Warning Signs
- Early Health Signs in Kittens – Our internal guide for kitten-specific signs.
- iCatCare: Is Your Cat in Pain?
Final Thoughts
Being a cat parent isn’t just about cuddles and playtime. It’s about vigilance, about knowing that behind their quiet eyes might be pain they can’t speak of. I was lucky with Nino, but many are not. Listen to your intuition. Observe the little things. It could save a life.
— Lena R.
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