Cats are very stoic, which makes it difficult to tell they are sick. If your cat hides more often and is less social than normal, this could be a sign that something is wrong. Read on to find out more! 

He’s drinking like a fish

Cats, in general, don’t lap up copious amounts of water (about a cup for every ten pounds) so it should be fairly easy to spot when the water bowl empties quicker, or he’s trying to get water from other sources like the sink or toilet. ‘If your cat is drinking more water than normal this could be a sign that your cat has an endocrine disorder such as hyperthyroid disease or diabetes,’ says Dr. Rossman. Definitely give your vet a call if you notice your cat is lapping up more water than usual.

She’s turning his nose up on her favorite food

Your kitty goes crazy when you bring home a new bag of kitty kibble, but if she hasn’t shown much interest lately, take note. A decreased appetite could indicate many things like an underlying infection, cancer, or maybe their choppers are bothering them.

‘Cats have a wide array of dental issues including gingivitis, periodontitis, and stomatitis which lead to resorption of many tooth roots. Cats also suffer from a build-up of dental tartar and fractured teeth,’ says Dr. Rossman.

She’s got runny eyes and nose

‘If your cat is experiencing sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing, fever, or the sniffles, it can be due to a variety of things, including feline upper respiratory disease which is similar to the common cold in humans,’ says Dr. Cooley. However, if the tearing is excessive or comes with a clear discharge, Dr. Cooley says it could indicate a clogged tear duct or other irritation to the eye. Green or yellow discharge likely means she has an infection that would require meds from your vet.

He’s more vocal than usual

OK, so this isn’t a silent sign, but it’s noteworthy when your cat is more vocal than his usual quiet self. In fact, if it goes on for more than 24 to 36 hours, his meowing is a sign he could be sick. ‘Vocalization is a very broad clinical sign in cats—it can convey pain, but it can also convey many different underlying diseases,’ says Dr. Rossman. Despite popular opinion, purring doesn’t always mean he’s healthy and content.

She’s losing weight

A few pounds off a ten-pound cat is pretty noticeable—and it’s a symptom you shouldn’t ignore. ‘If you notice signs of weight loss in your cat, first and foremost, double check with your veterinarian to be sure your cat has been properly screened for internal disease, dental health, and any other conditions that could be contributing to her weight loss,’ says veterinarian Heidi Cooley, senior manager client experience and advocacy at Banfield Pet Hospital. Make notes of what your kitty is eating and drinking and if they are eating more or less than usual to share with your vet.

He’s losing hair and his skin is crusty

Hair loss and crusty or scaly patches on the skin that may be red, with or without scratching, is a sure sign your feline isn’t feeling fine. These are hallmark signs of ringworm, and it’s critical your cat sees the vet pronto. ‘If you suspect your pet might have ringworm, it is important to partner with your veterinarian to diagnose and treat as it is transmissible to other pets and humans,’ says Dr. Cooley.

He’s letting his dander pile up

Cats are top notch groomers so if you find dander piling up on his belly or bottom; something’s up. ‘One of the hardest things for aging cats that have developed arthritis may be losing the ability to groom themselves properly,’ says Dr. Cooley. ‘Although we don’t know for sure, we think it causes stress for them, and these cats appear uncomfortable or even in pain when their bottom or lower belly is scratched.’