By Jaime Stephens

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Most people know many of the conditions and illnesses that cats can suffer from:  Feline Acne, Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD),  Diabetes, Fleas, Vomiting (due to hairballs or other issues), and kidney disease.  Chronic Kidney Disease, or CKD, is one of the most prevalent diseases in older cats, affecting up to 40% of cats over the age of 10 and 80% of cats over the age of 15. Most, however, are not aware of some of the rarer conditions, syndromes, and diseases that can affect members of the feline family of cats.

Acromegaly is one such disease.  Acromegaly is caused by an excess of the growth hormone (GH) in adult animals. In cats, it is caused by GH-secreting tumors of the anterior pituitary. Signs related to diabetes mellitus are typically the first clinical signs of acromegaly to be noticed. Some cats with acromegaly show excess growth of extremities, skull, and muscles. Acromegaly is also a disease found in humans, including the actors Fred Gwynne, who played Herman Munster on the television show “The Munsters,” Kevyn Aucoin, famous make-up artist and founder of his eponymous make-up line, and Richard Kiel, who played the character Jaws in the James Bond movies. While not curable, acromegaly can be treated.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PDK), unlike Chronic Kidney Disease, is a disease primarily associated with Persian cats.  Again, while there is no cure, this disease can be managed with fluid therapy, a specialized diet, and certain medications. It should be noted that this breed, in particular, is prone to numerous diseases with approximately 65% of all Persians suffering from at least one health condition.

Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS) —also called twitchy cat syndrome—generally involves muscle contractions that a cat can’t control, along with changes in their behavior. Feline hyperesthesia syndrome is a disease in cats that remains poorly understood and may have neurological, psychological, or dermatological issues. Feline hyperesthesia syndrome can happen in any cat, though it may be found more frequently in Abyssinian, Burmese, Persian, and Siamese cats. FHS is also more common among younger cats.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a rare, life-threatening disease caused by a mutated feline coronavirus, unrelated to the human coronavirus, that triggers a harmful immune response.  While once considered fatal, new antiviral treatments have increased chances of survival for cats diagnosed with FIP. The virus is generally spread when a cat ingests something carrying FIP, such as feces.  Less commonly, inhalation or spread through saliva or mucus can occur. This may happen if cats lick or groom one another or share water bowls. Because of this, cats living in close proximity to other cats, in shelters or multi-cat households, are at a higher risk for infection.

FIP affects cats of all ages, but it’s most common in young cats ages six months to two years. Males are also more likely to become infected, especially if they have not been neutered. Purebred cats, such as Himalayans, Persians, and Abyssinians,  are at an increased risk of getting FIP, possibly due to a genetic predisposition and unsanitary breeding conditions.

Hemophilia in cats is a group of rare, hereditary bleeding disorders where the cat’s blood doesn’t clot appropriately in case of an injury. Hemophilia in cats is different from human hemophilia. While both conditions involve blood clotting issues, they differ significantly in their causes and implications. Although uncommon, hemophilia is a severe condition that can be congenital or acquired. Best known variants of congenital hemophilia in cats are hemophilia A and B and Hageman deficiency. Some cat breeds have a higher genetic predisposition to these conditions. It is suspected that Maine coon may have such predisposition, and it is confirmed in British shorthairs and the Devon Rex.

Whisker Fatigue refers not to tiredness but to a condition where a cat’s highly sensitive whiskers become overstimulated, potentially causing stress and/or discomfort, especially during eating or drinking.   Whisker fatigue is not caused by an illness, nor is it a disease, and it is debatable within the veterinary community whether it is real. A cat’s behavior at their food and water bowl can be a sign that they are stressed, along with these signs:

Pacing in front of a food or water bowl; acting hungry but appearing not to want to eat from a bowl; pawing food out of a bowl, transferring it to the floor and eating it there and/or acting aggressively toward other household pets when eating. It could be attributable to dental or other oral issues as well.

One of the most important preventative measures for safeguarding your cat against rare diseases are regular vet checkups. Schedule routine visits with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat is up to date on vaccinations and screenings. Additionally, be sure to discuss any concerns or potential symptoms with your vet, as, just like with humans, early detection is crucial in preventing the spread of rare diseases. Another vital aspect of preventative care for your cat is maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. Regularly clean and disinfect your cat’s living space, litter box, and feeding areas to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens and bacteria.

A well-balanced and nutritious diet plays a significant role in boosting your cat’s immune system and overall health. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable diet for your cat, taking into consideration their age, breed, and any pre-existing conditions. In addition to a nutritious diet, proper grooming and parasite control are essential in preventing rare diseases in cats. Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help identify any abnormalities or signs of illness early.

About the Author: Jaime Stephens lives in Alexandria with her husband and cats.  She dedicates this article to her father’s cat, Smokey, who fought a valiant battle with acromegaly and was loved by all.  A special thanks to The Regional Veterinary Referral Center for their care of Smokey.

References:

Five Rare Cat Diseases that Can Affect Your Cat | PetCareRx

Cat Health Issues by Breed: Common Conditions to Watch For – Complete Cat Guide

Whisker Fatigue in Cats: What It Is and How To Help | PetMD

Acromegaly in Cats – Endocrine System – Merck Veterinary Manual