Getting a new pet is a truly momentous time for everyone in the family. It can be very unsettling for families with kittens when their precious new pet comes down with an illness, but at San Marco Animal Hospital, we are here to help keep your furry friend healthy and help them recover if they come down with an illness. Below, Dr. Venkat Gutta, a veterinarian in Jacksonville, Florida, explains common kitten health issues that you should be aware of and what to do if your kitten is exhibiting signs of illness.

Common kitten health problems

Some of the most common kitten health problems that we see include the following. With preventive care and vaccinations, some of these issues are avoidable, so it is important to follow the veterinary care schedule that you have been provided to ensure that your kitten stays healthy.

Intestinal worms: There are a variety of different types of intestinal worms that can infect kittens, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and others. If your kitten has worms, it can suffer from diarrhea, weight loss, and failure to thrive; however, we can deworm your cat and provide any necessary medications.

Upper respiratory infections: Caused by viruses or bacteria, an upper respiratory infection may only cause mild symptoms such as sneezing or yellow discharge, but in more serious cases, your kitten may refuse to eat or have trouble breathing. Viral infections need to run their course, and there is no treatment available, but bacterial infections can be treated, so it is important to see the vet if your kitten is exhibiting signs of an upper respiratory infection.

Fleas: If your kitten seems itchy and exhibiting hair loss, they may have fleas. Kittens can get fleas easily, but the good news is that they are also easy to treat with topical medications.

Ear mites: These are tiny insects that take up residence in your kitten’s ear and can be very itchy. If your kitten is scratching their ears and shaking its head, it may have ear mites. Liquid drops that are given in the ear can effectively treat them.

Many other kitten illnesses can occur, so if your kitten seems to not be herself or has other symptoms that are not described above, please don’t hesitate to call us to diagnose and treat the issue. You can reach our Jacksonville, FL office at 904-399-5557.