When you love your furry friend like family, paying an emergency visit to the veterinarian can be difficult. Pet care varies between animals, and only you know your cat’s common behaviors. If any changes occur, get your cat help right away. For Butler County, OH, residents, Animal Care Center of Fairfield is the area’s go-to veterinary clinic, with extended doctor hours to meet every animal’s needs. Here, they share four feline red flags that warrant a visit to the veterinarian.

4 Behavior Changes to Look For in Your Cat

1. Changes in Grooming

If your furry friend has lost or gained a few pounds, reaching their back might be difficult, leading to a temporary change in habits. Since there’s a chance more serious health issues are involved, including mobility issues or broken bones, visit your veterinary clinic. Even if the issue is minor, knowing the cause of grooming changes will provide a welcome peace of mind.

2. Loss of Appetite

Without proper nutrition, your cat’s health is at risk. There are a variety of reasons for loss of appetite, from a minor toothache to a more serious stomach disease. The sooner your cat gets help, the sooner you’ll know what’s wrong, and get them back on the path to good health.

3. Hiding

While some cats are normally quiet and on the defensive, pay attention to avoidance behavior. Even the quietest of cats love to come out and play, so hiding signifies a sick cat. If you’ve been giving them proper pet care, your cat could be hiding for a diverse array of reasons, including stress, anxiety, or pregnancy. Don’t wait; since hiding has so many causes, it’s best to handle this health problem right away. 

4. Aggression

If you have other animals in the home, growling and hissing could be scary, if not dangerous. If you notice these behaviors taking place, especially any attacks, take them seriously. Your cat could be acting out to let you know there’s a problem, such as fear, pain, or stress. 

If you’ve noticed any of these red flags in your feline friend, contact Animal Care Center of Fairfield. The veterinarian offers an array of services to keep all animals in good health, from boarding and grooming to checkups and surgery. Using state-of-the-art equipment, their experienced staff treats every pet like part of the family, and their Healthy Pet Program lets you schedule exams at a highly affordable price, even if you aren’t a regular patient. Visit their website for more information on their services, or call (513) 829-6621 today to schedule a visit.