Five Common Kitten Illnesses to Watch for

If you have a kitten, you know how mischievous they can be. Kittens are playful and sometimes their curiosity may get the best of them. As a pet owner, you want to spend quality time with your best friend, and a trip to the emergency room doesn’t count. This is why we sat down with the Trupanion data team and Trupanion veterinarian Dr. Sarah Nold to reveal some of the most common kitten illnesses that all pet owners should be aware of.

5 common kitten illnesses for every kitten owner to know

1. Vomiting and diarrhea

An upset stomach may affect all pets, including your new kitten. While it may seem minor, an upset stomach should not be taken lightly. In fact, it could be a sign that something more is going on with your furry friend. “It is important to seek medical care for vomiting and diarrhea, especially if severe, as your cat can quickly become dehydrated. This is especially true in kittens, due to their small size,” says Nold.

There are many reasons why your kitten may have vomiting or diarrhea. It may react to a medication or your pet may have swallowed something they shouldn’t have. Nold breaks down some of the reasons your furry friend’s stomach may be sick.

Consider the following:

• Intestinal parasites
• Foreign body ingestion
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
• Toxins
• Medications

Did you know?

According to the Trupanion data team:

• A cat is 6.5% more likely to develop this condition
• For kittens that do have vomiting or diarrhea issues, the average annual cost is between $300-$500.

2. Ingestion of a foreign material

Kittens are curious. They like to interact and play in their new home. While interaction and enrichment are encouraged, be mindful that your home is safe. If your kitten ingests something, you may not immediately notice. “Cats seem to be more likely to swallow things they like to play with like string, hair ties, rubber bands, or sewing needles,” states Nold.

Signs of ingestion may include:

• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy

If you think your kitten has ingested anything, please seek the medical care of your veterinarian.

Did you know?

According to the Trupanion data team:

• A cat is 1.5% likely to develop this condition
• For kittens that do have foreign body ingestion issues, the average annual cost is between $700-$1,700.

3. Fractured bone

As your kitten explores, they may jump onto objects and furniture. And an accident can happen. Also, a fractured bone is more common than you would think. Nold points out the signs of a fractured bone.

“The most common sign associated with a fractured bone in a limb is lameness, usually non-weight bearing. You may also see localized swelling and your pet will likely guard the area, as it is quite painful. Be cautious about trying to examine the area, as they could try to bite or scratch you.”

Did you know?

According to the Trupanion data team:

• A cat is 0.4% likely to develop this condition
• For kittens that do have a fractured bone, the average annual cost is between $1,200-2,700.

4. Urinary tract infection

Your kitten may be having issues, and you may not even know. Kittens and cats are particular about their surroundings, including where they urinate. But how do you know if your kitten is sick? Nold weighs in on the signs of a urinary tract infection.

“Cats are good at hiding any signs of illness.