To be fair, cats are well-known for their lack of thirst, given their evolutionary history as desert animals. But chronic dehydration can be a serious problem, and it can take a toll on your cat’s kidney and urinary health before you even realize there’s a problem. 

How to Tell If Your Cat Is Drinking Enough Water

Because cats generally have such a low level of thirst, it can be hard to tell how much water they drink every day. Especially if they tend to ignore their water bowl in favor of a leaky faucet or the dishes soaking in the kitchen sink. 

Fortunately, there are several simple signs that will tell you your cat is getting enough to drink. Well-hydrated cats have bright eyes, moist gums, and good energy levels. Their skin is also highly elastic. For example, if you pinch the scruff of their neck, the skin is supple and moves easily. 

How Much Water Do Cats Need?

You might be surprised by how little water cats need to stay healthy! It’s only 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day. 

Cats get water from their wet food, too, so keeping your cat well-fed also helps keep them well-hydrated. If you want to make it easier for your cat to get the water they need, here are a few things to try. 

• Cats often prefer moving water, so they might drink more from a fountain than from a bowl. 
• Keep multiple water sources in different locations around the house so cats can drink whenever and wherever they feel thirsty.
• Prevent contamination by placing water bowls away from the food bowl and litter box.
• Change and refill the water in your cat’s bowl at least once daily. Cats are sensitive to smell and taste. If the water tastes stale or has an odor, cats are likely to avoid it.

What Are the Signs of Dehydration in Cats?

If your cat shows any of the warning signs of dehydration, they could be in trouble. Dehydration can lead to painful urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and more. Call your vet if your cat shows symptoms like:

• Lethargic behavior
• Sunken eyes
• Dry or tacky gums
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Decreased urination or very dark, highly concentrated urine
• Reduced appetite

Some of these symptoms may be caused by other health concerns, so going to the vet is the best way to make sure your cat gets the care they need. Kidney or thyroid problems, cardiovascular disease, and even infections may cause similar or overlapping symptoms.

Veterinary Care for Cats in Gilbert, Arizona

If your cat seems healthy, but you’re concerned about whether or not they’re drinking enough water, please ask us about it at their next exam. But if your cat is acting odd, or showing signs of dehydration, trust your instincts and schedule a vet appointment. Anasazi Animal Clinic is always happy to help you figure out what’s going on and what works best for keeping your cat healthy. 

Photo by fr0ggy5 on Unsplash used with permission under license for commercial use 03/19/2026.

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Why Do Cats Get Spring Fever?

The seasonal increase in daylight hours triggers biological responses in many animals, and cats are no exception. You’re likely to observe an uptick in hunting behaviors, vocalization, scratching, and pacing from your pet. This restlessness may also result in frequent attempts to escape outside, especially if your cat has not been spayed or neutered. 

Although you might feel surprised or even worried about these behaviors, they are quite normal in healthy cats. Here’s what you can do to help your cat manage these seasonal hormonal surges. 

Helping Your Cat Deal with Excess Energy

It’s wise to keep in mind that your cat’s seemingly “wild” activities are actually a biological need, not misbehavior. As a species, cats have evolved to prowl and hunt, and no matter how domesticated our housecats are (or how well we feed them!) they still have this instinctual desire. 

• Give your cats more exercise with a little extra play time. Interactive toys like wands and laser pointers will help them work out some of their prey instinct.
• Extra exercise means extra calories burned. Make sure your cat is getting plenty of protein-rich food to eat.
• Enrich their environment with window perches to prevent boredom. Even if they can’t get out to catch the birds and squirrels, they’ll still get a lot of fun out of watching. 
• Disruptions to your cat’s daily routine can make anxiety-driven behaviors worse. Stick to a normal schedule and reassure them with a little extra one-on-one attention.
• Offer your cat puzzle feeders to engage their curiosity in a positive way.
• Catios, cat backpacks, and leashes are a safe way to let your cat explore the outdoors without getting hurt or lost.
• Be careful not to let your cat sneak outside when you open the door. Whether they want to go hunting or head off in search of a mate, letting them roam is dangerous.

How Spaying or Neutering Keeps Cats Safe 

Hormonal changes often surge in the springtime. Intact females will go into heat, and males will get more aggressive about marking. You might be tempted to let your cat follow their instincts, but letting them roam outdoors can be fatal. Cats that are allowed to prowl freely are far more likely to get lost, hit by a car, or killed by a larger predator. 

Spaying or neutering lessens their urge to wander, eases restless temperaments, and reduces behaviors like yowling and marking. It can reduce the risk of reproductive cancer or eliminate it altogether. And spayed or neutered cats also live longer than intact cats. 

Veterinary Care for Cats in Gilbert, Arizona

Even though cats can be more energetic in spring, their daily activity levels should eventually return to what’s typical for them. But if you think there’s something abnormal about your cat’s behavior, it’s worth asking a veterinarian to examine them. Behavior changes in cats are often a sign of pain or illness, so trust your instincts when it comes to knowing what’s normal for your cat.

Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to offer guidance and support your cat’s health and wellbeing all year round. If your cat needs a spring checkup, call us to make an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!

Photo by Caleb Woods on Unsplash used with permission under license for commercial use 03/12/2026.

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Here’s how to cope with all those dust bunnies and make spring shedding a little easier on your pet.

How to Deal with Spring Shedding

Daily Brushing

• Try to spend at least 5-10 minutes brushing your cat or dog every day while they are shedding their winter coat. 
• Using the right tools will make the job easier. Use a slicker brush for short coats, and undercoat rakes for long-haired cats or double-coated dogs.
• If your pet isn’t fond of grooming, try to do it while they’re feeling more docile and snuggly. (Or just bribe them with treats.)

Around the House

• Protect furniture with washable throws. 
• Keep lint rollers handy in multiple rooms. 
• Use an air purifier to remove pet dander. 
• Keep up a regular vacuuming routine. 
• Get your HVAC filters changed after shedding season is over.

Your Pet’s Food and Water

• Give your pets extra water while they are shedding. Cats might like to have bowls in multiple locations.  
• Omega-3 fatty acids support healthy hair and skin. Look for pet food with ingredients like salmon, fish oil, or flax seed that are rich in Omega-3. You can also ask your vet about an Omega-3 supplement.

Why Grooming Your Pet Is Important 

Daily brushing helps prevent matting and skin problems. It also gives you a chance to spot skin concerns like rashes, lumps, or bites that need the attention of a veterinarian. Brushing is also a wonderful way to spend quality time with your pet. Offering treats and praise can make it a positive experience for your pet, and encourage them to look forward to future grooming sessions. 

During shedding season:

• Cats may need a little extra help with grooming in order to prevent hairballs. Swallowing too much hair can cause dangerous intestinal blockages.
• Add an extra bath to your dog’s schedule, and brush their fur out after it is completely dry. 
• Long-haired pets may benefit from professional grooming and a spring “haircut.”

Normal vs. Concerning Shedding Patterns

You can expect to see 3-4 weeks of increased shedding of pet hair from your dogs and cats; however, some breeds may shed more than usual for a longer period of time. Double-coated breeds in particular may show significant shedding.

If hair loss reveals bare patches or irritated skin, or your pet is scratching excessively, it could be a sign of another health concern that requires vet attention. Natural shedding helps your pet maintain a shiny, healthy coat. A pet with dull or brittle fur should be examined by a vet. 

Veterinary Care for Cats and Dogs in Gilbert

Spring shedding is actually the sign of a healthy coat. However, if you’re worried that your dog is scratching too much, or anxious because your cat is hacking and coughing but not producing any hairballs, bring them in for an exam. 

The team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to help with any concerns you have! Contact us to schedule a wellness exam for your pet today.

Photo by Eric Han on Unsplash used with permission under license for commercial use 03/07/2026.

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There are actually a few reasons behind this quirky habit, and while most of them are harmless and instinctive, it’s still something to keep an eye on. Here’s a look at what might be going on, and when grass-eating can become a concern.

Top 3 Reasons Why Cats Eat Grass

1. It helps settle an upset stomach.

Grass contains fiber, which can help move stomach contents through their system. You might even notice that your cat vomits after eating grass, and that’s perfectly normal. For many cats, grass is like a reset button when their stomachs feel a little off.

2. It can bring up hairballs.

Cats can swallow a lot of fur while grooming, and sometimes that hair doesn’t pass easily on its own. Eating grass can irritate the stomach just enough to trigger vomiting, helping your cat get rid of a stubborn hairball. 

3. They enjoy it!

Some cats just like the texture of grass. If your cat is one that likes to chew on houseplants, blinds, cords, etc, grass might just be another interesting thing for them to play with. 

Is It Safe for Cats to Eat Grass?

Most outdoor grass is harmless for cats, but not all of it is safe. Try to avoid letting your cat nibble on:

• Grass treated with pesticides
• Fertilized lawns
• Grass that could be contaminated by other animals

If your cat has access to untreated outdoor grass or an indoor alternative, there’s usually no reason to stop them. There are actually more risks if your cat eats your houseplants than there are from munching on grass, because many common indoor plants are toxic to cats. 

What About Wheatgrass?

While cats are obligate carnivores, eating grass can provide a few of the vitamins and nutrients they need. 

If your cat loves greens, wheatgrass is one of the safest options. Many cats even prefer it over outdoor grass because it’s softer and easier to chew. Wheatgrass is also pesticide-free, and it contains vitamins and antioxidants that support digestion and overall health. 

Safe Houseplant for Cats

If your cat has made a habit of snacking on your plants, it’s a good idea to only keep pet-friendly options around your house. Some safe houseplants include:

• Oat grass
• Spider plants
• Boston ferns
• Catnip
• Cat mint
• Polka dot plants

It’s important to remember that safe doesn’t always mean edible. Mildly toxic plants like spider plants won’t poison your cat, but they can cause stomach upset. So if your cat likes to chew on your plants, make sure to give them safe alternatives and keep poisonous plants out of your home.

When to Worry

In most cases, grass-eating is harmless. However, it could be a symptom of digestive issues, nutritional deficiencies, or even a blocked intestine. 

Make sure to call your vet if you notice:

• Repeated vomiting after eating grass
• Difficulty passing stool, or ongoing constipation
• Signs of lethargy or discomfort
• Decrease in appetite
• Sudden increase in plant-chewing behavior 

Keeping Your Cat Happy and Healthy

Cats have plenty of quirky habits, and eating grass is one of the more common ones. But if you’re ever unsure about what’s normal or what’s safe, the team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to help. From dietary questions to plant-related concerns, we want to keep your cat happy and healthy.

Give us a call today to schedule an appointment so you can get answers for all your cat-related questions. Our patients are always our top priority! 

Photo by Elena on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 12/30/2025

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Here are a few fun ways to celebrate International Cat Day (and maybe earn a few extra headbutts in return).

1. Add a New Perch or Hideout

Cats love vertical space. Climbing, perching, and observing their surroundings from up high helps cats feel safe and in control. Consider adding a new window perch, cat tree, or even a DIY cat shelf to give your kitty more room to climb around and nap in style. 

2. Make Time to Play

A feather wand, a crinkly ball, or even a cardboard box can be all it takes to get your cat moving. Playtime isn’t just entertainment—it’s exercise, mental stimulation, and bonding all rolled into one. Try out a new toy or switch up your usual routine to keep things interesting.

Bonus: Try clicker training or puzzle feeders to challenge your cat in a new way!

3. Plan an Outdoor Adventure

Is your cat craving a little fresh air? Some cats really enjoy outdoor time, as long as it’s safe and supervised. Consider setting up a secure catio, going for a stroller walk, or even trying leash training. 

4. Offer a Special Treat

Whether it’s freeze-dried fish, a sprinkle of catnip, or a lickable snack, your cat deserves something a little fancy today. Just be mindful of portion sizes, and maybe save the bribery for getting their nails trimmed. 

5. Adopt a Cat

Thinking about adding a cat to the family? International Cat Day is the perfect excuse to visit a local rescue or shelter and see who’s waiting to find their forever home.

6. Give Back with Adoption Kits

If you’re not ready to adopt, consider volunteering at a local cat rescue or making a donation. From litter boxes and scratching posts to comfy beds and food, it’s worth putting together a few things for the cats that are still waiting for a home. You might even consider putting together adoption kits for families who adopt a new cat! 

Give Your Cat a Day Worth Purring About

International Cat Day is the perfect reason to show your cat a little extra appreciation. Whether you’re celebrating with a new toy or just a quiet cuddle on the couch, what matters most is spending time together.

It’s also a good reason to schedule your cat’s next checkup! Veterinary care will help you keep your cat healthy, happy, and purring for many International Cat Days to come. Our team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here with personalized care for every cat and expert advice for their owners.

Photo by Pet foto on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 7/17/2025

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Whether you’ve just adopted a senior pet or you’re helping a lifelong friend age with grace, a few small changes at home can make a big difference to their comfort. Here are some easy ways to help your senior dog or cat feel safe, supported, and deeply loved.

Support Their Mobility

Stairs get harder. Floors get slipperier. Even jumping onto the couch might feel like a stretch. If your pet is starting to hesitate, they’re not being lazy. They’re telling you they need a little help.

Try this: 

• Add non-slip rugs or runners to slick floors
• Use steps or ramps near their favorite spots, like the couch, bed, or window perch
• Switch to a low-sided litter box if your cat struggles to step in and out
• Try elevated food and water bowls to reduce neck and joint strain

Make Resting Easier

Senior pets love a good nap (or three). Whether they like curling up in the sun or burrowing under blankets, cozy resting spots are a must.

Try this:

• Set up an orthopedic bed in a quiet, draft-free space
• Add a pet-safe heated pad during colder months to soothe stiff joints
• Keep a soft bed or mat in every room so they don’t have to go far to rest

Adjust Their Diet

As pets age, their appetites, weight, and digestion can change as well. Some pets lose interest in food, while others may gain weight more easily or have trouble chewing. 

Talk to your vet about:

• Switching to a safe, senior-specific diet 
• Choosing food that’s easier to chew and digest
• Managing appetite and portion size based on your pet’s health
• How dental care plays a role in your pet’s ability to eat comfortably

Keep Things Familiar

Older pets can get confused or anxious, especially if their hearing or vision isn’t what it used to be. A predictable routine and familiar surroundings can make life a lot easier.

Try this:

• Feed them at the same times each day
• Take walks in familiar places and play at regular times
• Avoid rearranging the furniture to prevent confusion or bumping into things
• Use night lights near beds, stairs, or litter boxes to help them see better in the dark

Show Extra Love and Attention

They may not chase their tail like they used to, but your senior pet still wants to be the center of attention. A little one-on-one time each day goes a long way.

Try this:

• Set aside time for gentle play, brushing, or cuddling
• Use enrichment toys or puzzle feeders to keep their minds sharp
• Talk to your pet throughout the day—they love hearing your voice

Keep Up with Vet Visits

Routine checkups help us catch any changes in your pet’s health early on, so we can help you keep your pet feeling their best. Preventive care is important as well—we can recommend things like joint supplements, diet adjustments, or pain relief methods to support your pet’s wellness as they age.

Watching your pet grow older isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the greatest honors in life. With a few simple changes and a lot of love, you can help your senior dog or cat thrive in their golden years. 

If you’d like personalized care tips or want to schedule a senior wellness visit, the team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to help. Contact us today to make an appointment.

Photo by Caden Van Cleave on Pexels on 07/252025 used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use.

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Here’s what you should know before you fill up your cat’s bowl.

Do Cats Need Carbs?

Not really. Unlike dogs or humans, cats are obligate carnivores. That means their bodies are built to run on protein and fat, not carbohydrates.

That being said, carbs aren’t automatically bad for cats. Most commercial cat foods include carbohydrates like rice, peas, or corn. These ingredients help bind the kibble together and they also add calories. The problem isn’t that cats are eating carbohydrates—it’s that they’re either eating too many carbs, or the wrong kind.

When Do Carbs Become a Problem?

Cats can’t digest carbohydrates as efficiently as omnivores like dogs. So when cats eat a carb-heavy diet, it can lead to health issues like:

• Weight Gain
  Extra calories from starchy fillers can contribute to obesity, especially for indoor cats who don’t get a lot of activity. 

• Blood Sugar Spikes
  Because cats can’t regulate glucose very well, high-carb meals can throw their system out of balance. 

• Digestive Issues
  Some cats are sensitive to certain grains or fillers, which can cause GI issues.

• Overeating
  Cats on carb-heavy diets may not feel satisfied, which leads to begging or snacking between meals.

If your cat is overweight, has diabetes, or struggles with digestive issues, it’s a good idea to take a closer look at the ingredients in their food. There could be something wrong with their diet. Talk to a vet to find out if your cat is eating the right kind of food, or if you need to make a switch.

Is Grain-Free Cat Food Better?

Not necessarily. While “grain-free” may sound healthier, it’s often just a label. These foods typically replace grains for other carb sources, like sweet potatoes, legumes, or tapioca. So even though the grains are gone, the starch remains.

Some grain-free diets even contain more carbs than traditional formulas. That’s why it’s best to talk to your vet about whether your cat actually needs a grain-free diet before making the switch. 

What to Look for in Cat Food

Here are a few quick tips for picking out a better option the next time you’re shopping:

• Protein comes first. Look for real meat (like chicken, turkey, or salmon) as the first ingredient.
• Skip the heavy fillers. Avoid foods with too much cornmeal, potato flour, or starchy by-products. 
• Read the guaranteed analysis. The best cat foods are high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbs.
• Consider wet food. Canned food usually has fewer carbohydrates than kibble, and it may be a better option for cats with food sensitivities. 

If you’re considering switching to a grain-free diet or raw food, we recommend consulting your vet first.

Don’t Forget About Exercise

Without at least a little daily activity, even the best diet won’t keep your cat healthy. Exercise helps burn calories and supports your cat’s metabolism. Interactive play also keeps cats from getting bored and depressed. Whether it’s chasing a laser pointer or climbing a cat tree, regular movement keeps your cat healthier and happier. 

Does Your Cat Need a Diet Change? We Can Help

If your cat is gaining weight, begging for snacks, or showing signs of digestive trouble, it might be time to rethink their diet. At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we can help you find cat food with just the right balance of nutrients for your pet. 

If you’re unsure what’s best for your feline friend, contact us to schedule a visit! We’re always here to help your cat live a long and healthy life.

Photo by Engin Akyurt on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 5/27/2025

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What to Feed a Kitten

Birth to Six Weeks

Like all mammals, kittens drink their mother’s milk until they’re old enough to chew and digest other foods. The mother cat will usually start weaning her kittens when they’re around four weeks old. They won’t be ready to fully transition to solid food until they’re around eight weeks old—six weeks at the earliest.

When kittens are less than six weeks old, they are too young to be fully weaned. You will need to get some kitten formula and bottle-feed them every 2-6 hours, depending on their age. 

NEVER give a kitten cow’s milk, baby formula, or anything else besides kitten formula. Kittens get most of their hydration from drinking milk. If the milk you’re feeding them causes diarrhea, they could become severely dehydrated and even die. 

Six Weeks to Six Months

You can start feeding a kitten small amounts of wet food and kitten chow once they’re old enough. Just remember: kittens are growing quickly and have different nutritional needs than adult cats. That’s why it’s important to purchase kitten-specific kibble and wet food for your cat’s first year of life. 

Kitten food contains the extra fat and protein they need to develop healthy bodies and intelligent brains. Kittens also need to eat more often than adult cats. Once they’re weaned, they’ll need to eat three or four meals a day until they’re at least six months old.

Is Milk Safe for Adult Cats?

Although milk is not exactly toxic to cats, drinking it can cause some very painful side effects. Cats cannot digest lactose, so drinking cow’s milk will give them an upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea. Cats may enjoy the taste of milk, but you shouldn’t give it to them, because it will make them feel sick later on. 

Milk and dairy products like cheese also have a lot of fat, which could be dangerous for adult cats. Obesity in cats can lead to problems like arthritis, hip dysplasia, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and chronic pain. It also shortens their lifespans considerably. Feeding your cat a healthy diet, controlling their meal portions, and avoiding fatty treats is the best way to prevent obesity.

Veterinary Care for Cats and Kittens in Gilbert, Arizona

For dietary advice and complete cat care, come to Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert. Our vets are the best of the best—they’re gentle, caring, and highly trained. Cats can live for 20 years or more, and good nutrition when they’re a kitten will start them off on the path to a long and happy life. 

If you have any questions about kitten nutrition or if you have a new kitten to care for, contact us to make an appointment today.

Photo by Jesús Boscán on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 4/2/25.

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Why Are Lilies So Dangerous to Cats?

Lilies contain a chemical that causes kidney failure in cats. All types of lilies are poisonous: lilies of the valley, day lilies, tiger lilies, stargazer lilies, Easter lilies, and any other variety you might come across. 

Not only that, every single part of the plant is dangerous. The stems, leaves, petals, roots, and even the pollen are all toxic. So is the water in a vase of cut lilies. If your cat laps the water, bites a leaf, or brushes up against some lilies and then licks the pollen off of their fur while grooming, they could get poisoned.

Symptoms of Lily Toxicity in Cats

If your cat has had any potential contact with lilies, keep a close eye out for symptoms of poisoning. Symptoms may include:

• Exhaustion
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Increased urination
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms will start within 12 hours of ingestion, and kidney damage will begin at about the same time. If your cat shows any signs of lily toxicity, go to an emergency vet immediately. Without prompt treatment, the kidney damage will be irreversible and fatal. 

Which Other Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Cats?

Besides lilies, you need to keep your cat away from other dangerous plants and flowers like:

• Daffodils
• Tulips
• Hyacinths
• Crocuses
• Chrysanthemums
• Daisies
• Sago Palms
• Azaleas

Pet Poison Prevention

It’s important to be aware that pets respond differently than humans to many types of substances. Remember to use pet-friendly cleaning supplies, and to keep things like chocolate, toothpaste, medications out of your pet’s reach. 

When it comes to cats and flowers, proceed with caution. Always double-check to make sure that the flowers you choose for your home and garden are safe for cats. Some varieties of houseplants can be poisonous as well, so make sure any potted plants you purchase are safe for cats.

Expert Veterinary Care for Cats in Gilbert

Anasazi Animal Clinic is a full-service veterinary hospital in Gilbert, Arizona. We are open six days a week and we’re equipped to handle any urgent care your pet needs. If you think your cat may have eaten part of a lily or another dangerous plant, please call us right away. WIth prompt treatment, they can make a full recovery. 

Photo by Ashlee Marie on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 3/28/25.

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Cats may be predators, but that doesn’t mean they’re at the top of the food chain. They can be hunted by larger animals, like coyotes or hawks. For this reason, cats instinctively hide their pain—they don’t want to appear weak when they are vulnerable, because it might attract larger predators.

Some signs of illness in cats are more obvious, like vomiting and diarrhea. Others are more subtle, like the changes in behavior we’ll review below. Here’s how to tell if your cat is sick.

Is Your Cat Doing One of These Five Things?

• Hiding All the Time
• Not Eating as Much
• Meowing in the Litterbox
• Coughing or Hacking
• Wobbling When Walking

All five of these behaviors are good reasons to take your cat to the vet! It might be something minor, like the new laundry detergent you’re using, or something more serious, like a tooth infection. Let’s go over each of these symptoms in more detail.

Five Signs of Illness in Cats

1: Hiding All the Time

All cats like to hide. Hiding makes them feel safe, and allows them to get a good deep sleep once in a while instead of just a “catnap.” However, constant hiding may be a sign that something is wrong. They may be hiding out of anxiety—like after a move to a new home, adopting another pet, or a disruption to their normal schedule. 

Hiding can also be a sign of illness—when cats are sick and want to feel safe, they’ll retreat to their favorite hiding place to rest. If your cat has been “missing” for more than a day, you should take them to the vet for an examination.

2: Not Eating as Much

Sometimes cats will refuse to eat if you serve them a new type of food or a brand they don’t like. But most of the time, loss of appetite is a big red flag telling you that your cat is sick. 

They may be in pain from a tooth abscess, or feeling nauseous because of an infection. It could be a sign of anxiety, or a symptom of chronic disease. If your cat is refusing to eat, and you haven’t made any changes to their diet, bring them to the vet right away. 

3: Meowing in the Litterbox

If your cat is vocalizing when they use the litterbox, there’s a reason for it. Perhaps they’re trying to get your attention by ever-so-subtly hinting that you need to change the litter. However, if they’re meowing every time they go, you should take your cat to the vet. 

Meowing in the litterbox could indicate a painful urinary tract infection or—even worse—a bowel obstruction. If your cat swallowed a string or a small object, it could be blocking their intestines and causing internal bleeding. Bowel obstructions can quickly turn deadly, and your cat will need urgent care.

4: Coughing or Hacking

You know that hacking couch that indicates a hairball is on the way? If your cat is coughing and coughing but not producing a hairball, they might be sick. They could have asthma, a respiratory infection, or a number of other health problems. They could also be reacting to the fumes from cleaning products or air fresheners. 

Sometimes, a coughing spell just means your cat is having trouble ejecting a hairball. But if your cat keeps coughing, and no hairballs come up, take them to see a vet.

5: Wobbling When Walking

If your cat seems a little unsteady on their feet, or they’re too weak to jump, they may be seriously ill. Ataxia (lack of coordination) and weakness can be symptoms of many illnessess. It could indicate anything from an ear infection to a brain tumor to a spinal injury. It could also be a reaction to ingesting something toxic, like pollen from a bouquet of lilies.

A sudden lack of coordination is definitely cause for concern. If your cat can’t walk straight or seems too weak to move, get them to the vet right away.

Veterinary Care for Cats in Gilbert

If you’re looking for the best veterinarians for cats in Gilbert, Arizona, you found us! Nobody else will give your cat the same loving attention and dedicated care as Anasazi Animal Clinic. If you’re concerned about a recent change in your cat’s behavior, give us a call to make an appointment. Whether the problem is large or small, we can give your cat the care they need. 

Photo by Ladislav Stercell on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/17/25.

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