Cat Behaviour and Cat Health...How are They Related?

Cat Behaviour and Cat Health:

If you've noticed a difference in your cat's behaviour lately it might be an indication that your cat has a health problem.

Cat litter habits are one example of this. If your cat has been using the litter box properly and suddenly refuses, first check to see that the litter box is clean. If it's not your cat could have a health problem.

Often cat diseases impact a cat's behaviour. Any time a change in behaviour is observed and the reason is not obvious, it might be time to head for the vet's office.  

If the vet gives your cat a clean bill of health, then you'll know to take some cat behaviour modification action. But first rule out a health problem.
 

Cat Behaviour and Cat Health...
How Are They Connected?

Your beloved kitty is urinating on the floor right in front of your eyes…and right in front of the litter box! He's never done this before and your first reaction is to kick him to the corner, no questions asked. Fortunately, most mature adults don't act on their first impulse, so kitty is safe…for now. But what would cause this cat behaviour?

Cat behaviour is often tied to cat health. So the first thing that you need to do is to get your kitty to the vet. Describe any other unusual cat behaviour issues that you've noticed recently and your vet will do a thorough check to see if the behaviours are a cat health issue.

A cat that suddenly stops using the litter box, despite years of faithful use, has a problem of some sort. One of the cat health issues that could be causing this cat behaviour is a condition known as cystitis. Make sure to ask your vet about this.

Another cat behaviour demonstrated in kitties with cystitis can be seen in outdoor cats. If suddenly you see your cat digging holes in the yard, they could have cystitis or could be constipated. They will urinate in these shallow holes and then cover them up. Of course, they could also simply be digging for moles!

Bladder infections, a common cat health problem in cats that have feline leukaemia, can also cause this cat behaviour of urinating outside of the litter box. If your cat is considered elderly (over ten years old) and seems to be experiencing joint pains, it might be that the litter box is simply too difficult to get in and out of for her.

Hiding is another cat behaviour that can be a result of a cat health issue, if this is a new occurrence for your kitty. Have your vet look into hyperthyroidism, feline ischemic neuropathy, kidney failure, high blood pressure or the possibility that your cat is losing her sight. All of these cat health issues, along with your cat experiencing any kind of pain, can result in cat behaviour that includes fearfulness and hiding.

Obsessive/compulsive behaviours such as constant licking of the abdomen, pulling out hair, tail chasing or biting at the tail can all be based on various cat health issues. If your kitty is exhibiting any new types of cat behaviour, it's best to have him evaluated by the vet to rule out, or start to treat any cat health problems that may exist.

As you can see it is extremely important that you be a keen observer of your cat's behaviour and personality from the very moment you bring her home. Know your cat's temperament and habits. Keep mental tabs on eating habits, as well as potty habits. Notice how playful she is and how often and how long she naps. How vocal is she.

Remember, she can't verbally tell you when something is wrong, but if you are knowingly aware of her typical behaviour, you'll be better prepared to notice when there is a behavioural change that might signal a physical problem.

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