Your sweet kitten is having a fun playtime with you and loves to jump and pounce. Suddenly, one day your little kitten snuggles up into a warm little corner — and sleeps all day.
It makes you wondering, “Is my cat sick or just tired?”
This is one of the most frequent worries that cat owners have — especially for beginners!
So let’s take a dive into the fascinating world of feline behavior — the purring and panting, the rubbing and rolling, and the sleeping and sleeping — to see if we can decode the clues that reveal if our little ones are are feeling under the weather or simply in need of some restful slumber.
Observe Their Behavior
Knowing what is normal for your kitten is important in determining whether they are simply tired or if there is something wrong.
Kittens, like human babies, need a good deal of sleep for a healthy development. They can sleep for up to 18 hours a day, and this can vary according to their age and energy expenditure. If your kitten has been playing, exploring, or even just eating, it’s normal for it to take a little nap.
But if you see any significant change in behavior such as extreme tiredness, reluctance to play or eat, or unusual hiding, or unusual hiding, it might be an indication of illness. Trust your instincts and monitor them closely.
Read: What color is normal kitten poop?
Check Their Appetite
A healthy kitten is usually eager to eat. If your kitten is just tired, they may take short naps and return to their food with enthusiasm when they wake up.
On the other hand, a sick kitten might show a significant decrease in appetite. If you see them continually not eating or not interested in their favorite treats, this is a warning sign.
Dehydration is another concern related to a lack of appetite. Make sure your kitten stays hydrated by offering water. If they are not eating or drinking, consult a vet ASAP.
Monitor Their Bathroom Habits
Your kitty’s litter box routine could tell you things about its health.
A healthy kitten should have regular bowel movements and urination. If you see any sudden changes in the frequency, consistency, or color of their stool or urine, it’s a sign that they may be sick.
If your kitten seems lethargic and also has irregular bathroom habits, it’s best to seek advice from a veterinarian to rule out any health issues.
Check for Physical Symptoms
Fever: Check for a warm nose and ears. If they feel unusually hot, your kitten might have a fever.
Coughing or Sneezing: Persistent coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge could indicate a respiratory issue.
Watery Eyes: If your kitten has constant watery or goopy eyes, it might be a sign of an eye infection.
Vomiting: Occasional hairballs or isolated incidents of vomiting might be normal, but frequent or severe vomiting is a cause for concern.
Limping or Difficulty Moving: If your kitten is unable to walk properly, has swollen joints, or is in visible pain, it’s a clear sign of a problem.
Read: What to Feed a Sick Kitten?
When to Seek Veterinary Help
If you’re unsure whether your kitten is sick or just tired, trust your instincts and consult a veterinarian. They can conduct a thorough examination, perform tests if necessary, and provide guidance based on their findings.***