Common Cat Ailments Treatable at Home: A Quick Guide

01. Itching and Dandruff

Itching and dandruff can be quite pesky for cats, and the causes are numerous, ranging from fleas to allergies and even dandruff itself. Regardless of the cause, these issues can be quite uncomfortable for our feline friends.

One effective home remedy is to use rosemary or peppermint essential oils to create a soothing bath for your cat. This natural solution can provide significant relief.

In the winter months, when indoor air tends to be dry, cats may develop dandruff. Instead of bathing your cat, which can exacerbate the dryness, consider using a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity around 50%. This simple step can often resolve the dandruff issue without the need for baths.

02. Hairball Syndrome

When it comes to hairball problems, many people opt to shave their cats. However, I personally advise against this. Regular grooming is a much better approach.

Vaseline or butter can also act as excellent "degunking" agents. Just a small spoonful once a week can help manage hairballs effectively.

03. Urinary Tract Issues

Urinary tract problems, such as incomplete urination, holding in urine, or urinary tract blockages, are more common in older male cats, particularly those over two years of age.

Many prescription cat foods contain cranberry, which is a natural acidifier. You don't need to buy special food; a simple sprinkle of cranberry powder on your cat's food can do the trick. Just a teaspoon mixed in with their regular meals should suffice.

For cats with urinary tract issues, switching from dry to wet food can often resolve the problem. Most cases will clear up on their own with this dietary change.

04. Injuries

Injuries are a relatively common issue, especially in multicat households where disputes can lead to scuffles and even fights.

Having a wound disinfectant spray on hand can be incredibly convenient. If you don't have one, you can use diluted baby shampoo or a mixture of water and table salt to create a saline solution for cleaning the wound.

It's also important to trim the fur around the injury to prevent further infection. If the injury is severe, it's best to clean it thoroughly and then seek veterinary care for proper treatment.