nutritional support for cats with critical illness

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.

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What are the common risk factors for cats?

Cancer can affect cats of any breed, age, or size. However, some common risk factors can increase the likelihood of a cat developing an illness such as cancer, including:

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Age

Older cats are more likely to develop cancer than younger cats

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Genetics

Certain breeds have a higher predisposition to certain types of cancer

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Toxins

Certain chemicals and environmental pollutants can increase the risk of cancer in cats

See the Signs

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Examples of cancers in cats

Sometimes, the signs of illness in cats can be obvious, but other types can be more difficult to identify.

Lymphoma

Cancer of the lymphatic system
Learn More

Mouth Cancer

There are many different types of mouth cancer in cats, and some are more common than others
Learn More

Melanoma

Aggressive skin cancer that develops in the mouth, eyes or foot pads
Learn More

Mammary gland carcinoma

Affects the mammary glands, often prevented by spaying female cats early in life
Learn More

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
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What options might be available for your cat with cancer?

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Supportive Medication

Your veterinarian may prescribe medication to help your cat with related health issues, such as digestive care, pain management, etc.

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Treatment

Depending on your veterinarian's recommendation, supportive medication, radiation, surgery, and other treatment for cats may be considered.

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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.

Tips & resources for handling your
cat’s diagnosis

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.

Learn More

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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

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