Managing critical illness in cats
There are many critical illnesses, from cancer to severe viral infections like Parvo diarrhoea. All of these require careful management with nutrition. Let's explore how to care for a cat with cancer as one example, and how — with the right care and nutrition — you can support your friend through their fight.
Age
Older cats are more likely to develop cancer than younger cats
Genetics
Certain breeds have a higher predisposition to certain types of cancer
Toxins
Certain chemicals and environmental pollutants can increase the risk of cancer in cats
Lymphoma
Cancer of the lymphatic system
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Mouth Cancer
There are many different types of mouth cancer in cats, and some are more common than others
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Melanoma
Aggressive skin cancer that develops in the mouth, eyes or foot pads
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Mammary gland carcinoma
Affects the mammary glands, often prevented by spaying female cats early in life
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Nutritional support for restorative care
Maintaining a healthy diet can help keep your pet strong and improve their overall quality of life, so be sure to ask your vet for a recommendation. Food for sick cats will typically support some key dietetic goals:
- Encourage an enthusiastic appetite & food intake with tasty ingredients and easy-to-chew kibble
- Help maintain muscle mass with highly digestible protein and an adequate amount of essential amino acids
- Support healthy digestion with proven digestive support
Supportive Medication
Your veterinarian may prescribe medication to help your cat with related health issues, such as digestive care, pain management, etc.
Treatment
Depending on your veterinarian's recommendation, supportive medication, radiation, surgery, and other treatment for cats may be considered.
Love & Care
Whether it’s a road trip, a walk in the park or snuggling on the couch, your pet’s best friend in this fight is you.
There are several ways your pet can still enjoy a happy and fulfilling life. Here are some ways you can help your pet and keep them comfortable.
Rally Support
You will need support from family, friends, and of course, your vet.
Do Your Research
Learn all you can about your cat's diagnosis so you can be an advocate for the best care. International Cat Care can help you better understand your cat’s symptoms and more.
Consult With an Expert
A vet that specializes in your cat’s illness can give the best care. Ask your vet for a referral to a local veterinary specialist.
Assess Your Cat’s Quality of Life
If your cat's condition is terminal, it can help to understand and assess their quality of life.
Questions to ask your veterinary healthcare team
Here are some useful things to ask during your next vet visit:
- What treatments are available?
- What is the prognosis with each treatment?
- What are the side effects of each treatment?
- How will these treatments affect my cat’s quality of life?
- What can I feed my cat to provide the best nutritional support possible?
Contact your vet if you have any questions related to restorative care
Related products
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Hill's Prescription Diet ONC Care with Chicken Dry Cat Food
Hill's Pet Nutrition provides <span class='nowrap'>Prescription Diet</span> for Nourishment and support for cats with cancer for your Feline pet friend in Dry form - PD Feline ONC (ON-Care) Chicken Dry
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Hill's Prescription Diet ONC Care Chicken & Vegetable Stew Cat Food
Hill's Pet Nutrition provides <span class='nowrap'>Prescription Diet</span> for Nourishment and support for cats with cancer for your Feline pet friend in Canned form - PD Feline ONC (ON-Care) Chicken Stew Can
