Read your cat’s health status on their nose
Read your cat’s health status on their nose; you are probably familiar with this saying. But did you know that this wisdom also applies to cats? Your cat’s nose reveals a lot about its health. What exactly do we tell you here.
If the nose is blocked or dripping, it can be a sign of various illnesses in cats, just as it is in humans – but other changes in the cat’s nose also indicate a bad state of health.
“In general, vets examine your pet’s nose for any abnormal appearance or discharge, as well as whether the air can flow evenly through both nostrils,” explains veterinarian Dr. Meaghan Gilhooly opposite Martha Stewart magazine.
The condition of the nose can indicate not only sinus or respiratory diseases. But also to other health problems.
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This is what a healthy cat’s nose looks like
Every kitty is different – and so can their noses. In general, however, according to veterinarians, cool, slightly damp noses are a good sign. Sometimes the nose of a healthy cat also secretes some discharge – but this is then clear and transparent.
Photo: unsplash.com/Miron Cristina (symbol photo)
If your cat is sick, however, you can tell by the following symptoms, for example:
- discolored nasal discharge
- sneeze and cough
- Epistaxis
- dry, cracked or ulcerated areas
- Sores or blisters on the nose
- visible ulcers
If you experience any of these signs, it is important to have your cat examined by the vet – they can determine if your cat has a cold and prescribe something to keep the condition from getting worse. Some of the symptoms could indicate viral infections, injuries, autoimmune diseases, or foreign objects in the nose.
Runny nose? That could be the cause
If your cat sneezes or coughs and her nose is runny, it is often a sign of a respiratory infection. However, nasal discharge can also indicate another infection or illness. If the discharge is discolored, there may be a foreign object in your nose, such as an awn or a polyp.
What a dry cat nose means
If your cat has a dry nose, you don’t have to be alarmed immediately – even completely healthy kitties can have dry noses. How dry or moist it is can even change during the day. For example, if your cat spends too much time near a heater, it can dry out their nose a little.
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read your cat’s health status on their nose
However, a dry cat’s nose can also indicate fever or dehydration . If your kitty always has a wet nose and it suddenly becomes dry for more than a day, this is a warning signal. The color also provides information about possible diseases. A pale nose could be a sign of anemia.
When should you take your cat to the vet?
Speaking of nose color: As soon as you notice a yellowish tinge, you should see the vet immediately: This can be a symptom of problems that have to be taken. The same is true if your cat has difficulty breathing. Cats do not normally breathe through their mouths, so they should always be able to get enough air through both nostrils.
You know your cat best and what their nose usually looks like and how they behave. As soon as you notice changes, the best thing to do is to call the veterinarian’s practice. Based on the symptoms, this can decide whether the cat needs to be examined or whether you can watch it at home.
“If something is discovered early, you will save a lot of time and heartache,” says veterinarian Dr. John Howe. Therefore, you should play it safe if your cat’s nose has abnormalities.
