Cat Health Articles: Problems, Issues & Tips

The cat experts at Purina® Pro Plan are always learning about the ways that owning a cat can improve people’s health and happiness and reduce stress – did you know a 20-year study found that people who owned a cat were 40 percent less likely to die from a heart attack? 

A cat's skin and coat are among the most visible signs of health and vitality. The skin and coat are of vital importance to the body's protective mechanisms against environmental assaults of all kinds: from infectious agents to temperature gradients. In addition, hair is of great aesthetic importance to owners and a source of great concern when it is not normal.

Do cats drink water? Yes, like humans and many other animals, cats need water to survive. Many cats don’t drink as much as they should, though. Find out why they need water and how to get your own kitty to drink more.

Do you know how to tell if your cat is healthy? Healthy cat food with the proper nutrition can play an important role in the well-being of your cat, but that’s only one influential component in overall cat health.

There are a handful of zoonotic diseases—illnesses that can spread from animals to people. While it’s possible to contract a disease from your cat, it isn’t highly likely. Cleanliness is your best defense: Wear gloves to clean your cat's litterbox, and if you're pregnant, avoid the litterbox altogether. Remember to wash your hands after you feed, groom or pet your cat. Read the list of diseases below and more ways to help you stay healthy.

Spaying and neutering not only help prevent overpopulation, it can also help reduce the risk of some reproductive diseases. Learn when to spay or neuter your kitten.

Learn to recognize the symptoms of digestive distress in your cat.

Learn what to expect when your cat is going into heat. From signs to frequency, read here to answer all your questions about cats.

Learn to recognize signs of a UTI, including anxiety or straining.

A cat throwing up is something common that happens more than we like. It's important to know why cats throw up and when you need to consult your veterinarian.

Dry indoor air can cause your cat to have dry, itchy skin. This can lead to excessive shedding and dander. Here are some tips to help with your cat's dry skin.

Here are some things you can do to relieve your cat's digestive distress.