As cat owners, we know our pets better than anyone. We know their habits, their quirks and their routines — which is exactly why we're often the first to notice when something isn't quite right. But knowing when to call the vet and when to wait it out can be tricky, especially for new cat owners.
The truth is, cats are masters at hiding when they're unwell. Unlike dogs, who tend to show their discomfort quite openly, cats instinctively conceal signs of illness — which means by the time something is obvious, it may have been going on for a while. Knowing what to look out for could make all the difference.
Here are 10 signs your cat may need to see the vet — and why you should never ignore them.
1. Loss of Appetite or Refusing to Eat
A healthy cat is usually a fairly enthusiastic eater. If your cat suddenly loses interest in their food or refuses to eat for more than 24–48 hours, it's worth paying attention. Cats that don't eat for extended periods can develop a serious liver condition called hepatic lipidosis — so this is one sign you should never ignore.
Tip: Make sure your cat's food bowl is clean and placed at a comfortable height. The 15° Tilted Food & Water Bowl 👈 makes eating easier and more natural, particularly for older cats or flat-faced breeds.
2. Excessive Thirst or Changes in Urination
If your cat is drinking significantly more water than usual, visiting the litter tray more frequently or struggling to urinate, these can all be warning signs. Increased thirst can indicate diabetes, kidney disease or hyperthyroidism — all common in cats, particularly as they age. Changes in urination, especially in male cats, should always be treated as urgent.
3. Vomiting or Diarrhoea
Occasional hairballs are a normal part of cat life — but vomiting more than once or twice a week, or diarrhoea that lasts more than 24 hours, should be investigated. If there is blood present in either, seek veterinary advice immediately. Persistent digestive issues can indicate food intolerances, infections, parasites or more serious conditions.
4. Lethargy or Unusual Tiredness
Cats sleep a lot — we all know that! But if your cat seems unusually withdrawn, unwilling to move or play, or is sleeping significantly more than normal, something may be wrong. Lethargy is one of the most common signs of illness in cats and can indicate anything from an infection to pain to an underlying condition.
5. Changes in Coat or Excessive Grooming
A healthy cat has a clean, glossy coat. If your cat's fur has become dull, matted or unkempt — or if they're grooming excessively to the point of creating bald patches — it's worth investigating. Poor coat condition can indicate nutritional deficiencies, stress, parasites or underlying illness. Overgrooming is often a sign of anxiety or skin irritation.
Tip: Regular gentle grooming helps you spot coat and skin changes early. The 3-in-1 Electric Steam Spray Pet Grooming Brush 👈 makes grooming sessions comfortable and effective for both you and your cat.
6. Difficulty Breathing or Persistent Coughing
Any sign of laboured breathing, wheezing or a cough that won't go away should be taken seriously in cats. These symptoms can indicate respiratory infections, asthma, heart disease or fluid around the lungs. If your cat is breathing with their mouth open or their sides are heaving, treat it as an emergency and contact your vet immediately.
7. Weight Loss or Gain
Unexplained weight loss in cats is a red flag — particularly in older cats, where it can indicate hyperthyroidism, diabetes, kidney disease or cancer. Sudden weight gain can also be a concern. If you notice a significant change in your cat's body condition without a change in diet, book a vet appointment sooner rather than later.
8. Changes in Litter Box Habits
Any changes in your cat's litter box routine should be taken seriously. Straining to urinate, blood in the urine, urinating outside the litter box or not going at all can all indicate urinary tract infections, bladder stones or blockages — the latter of which is a life-threatening emergency, particularly in male cats. Never wait and see with urinary symptoms.
9. Changes in Behaviour or Personality
You know your cat better than anyone — so trust your instincts. If your usually affectionate cat becomes aggressive, withdrawn or unusually clingy, it could be a sign of pain, stress, neurological issues or cognitive decline in older cats. Sudden personality changes should always be investigated, as they're rarely without cause.
Tip: Stress and anxiety can have a real impact on your cat's health and behaviour. The Calming Heartbeat Comfort Plush 👈 can help provide comfort and security for anxious cats, particularly during unsettling periods.
10. Limping, Stiffness or Difficulty Moving
If your cat is limping, reluctant to jump, struggling to get up or moving more stiffly than usual, this could indicate injury, arthritis or joint pain — all of which are more common in older cats than many owners realise. Cats are very good at hiding pain, so even subtle changes in movement should be taken seriously.
Tip: For cats with joint issues or mobility concerns, the 15° Tilted Food & Water Bowl 👈 reduces the need to bend down to eat — a small but meaningful change to their daily comfort.
When in Doubt, Call Your Vet
As a general rule — if something feels off, trust your instincts and pick up the phone. Vets would always rather reassure you that everything is fine than see a cat who has been suffering in silence. You know your cat better than anyone, and your instincts as a pet owner are one of the most powerful tools you have.
Keep Your Cat Healthy and Happy Every Day
Spotting the signs early is one of the best things you can do for your cat's health — but great everyday care makes a difference too. From the right nutrition and regular grooming to keeping them comfortable at home, the small things really do add up.
🐶 Did you see our dog version of this guide? Check out 10 Signs Your Dog May Need to See the Vet in 2026 — link in our blog! 🐾
Loved this guide? Share it with a fellow pet owner who needs it! 🐾
Ready to give your cat the very best? Browse our full range at Urban Pet Shop 👈
Shop now at UrbanPetShop 👈
🚚 Free UK shipping on all orders over £24.99
🍂 Autumn Sale — up to 35% off, automatically applied at checkout, no code needed!
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.