Like their human owners, cats sometimes get sick. Some health issues are minor and cats can heal on their own with proper care at home. However, some health issues in cats may require a trip to the veterinary clinic.

Here are three health issues that commonly affect cats.

1. Eye Issues

Cats can suffer with a number of eye issues. The type of eye issue a cat has will determine the type of treatment that they need.

Common eye issues in cats include:

• Conjunctivitis. This inflammation of the eye is also called pink eye.
• Blepharitis. Cats with flat faces are more susceptible to this condition, which causes inflamed eyelids.
• Keratitis: This inflammatory condition of the cornea can cause blindness when left untreated.
• Corneal ulceration. This painful condition is caused by a loss of cells on the outermost layer of the cornea.

Eye injury, infections, environmental irritants, and bacteria can all cause eye issues in cats. Since untreated eye problems can cause pain and vision loss, it's best to take your cat to the veterinary clinic if you suspect they have an eye issue.

2. Digestive Problems

One of the most common digestive problems a cat can suffer with is vomiting. Cats may vomit for various reasons. Some reasons for vomiting might include eating something they shouldn't have, changes in their food, stress, and hairballs. In most cases, vomiting will resolve on its own. However, if vomiting is accompanied by other digestive problems, such as diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, or unexplained weight loss, it might indicate a more serious problem.

Your cat might have ingested something poisonous, or they might have food allergies. It's not uncommon for cats to have an inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract or an intestinal blockage. If your cat has severe symptoms or symptoms that don't go away, a trip to the veterinary clinic is probably necessary.

3. Fleas

Most cats will suffer with fleas at one point during their lifetime. You can tell your cat has fleas if they exhibit any of the following symptoms:

• Scratching or biting themselves
• Hair loss or skin problems
• Black specks in their bedding
• Appearing agitated

Severe cases of fleas might also cause anemia. You can tell if your cat is anemic by looking at their gums. If their gums are pale, it could indicate a severe case of fleas. While some cases of fleas can be treated at home, more severe cases will require going to the veterinary clinic.

Contact a veterinary clinic like Creatures Large and Small Animal Hospital to learn more.