Causes for this frustrating problem fall into two categories: medical problems and behavioral problems.
More common causes are listed first. Less common causes are listed later.
Cats and dogs of any age.
Ear infections are common and painful problems for pets. In cats and dogs, ear infections typically are opportunistic and not contagious. They often occur when the ear’s immune system is disrupted by allergies, moisture, poor air circulation, or diseases such as feline AIDS. Under these conditions, bacteria and yeast that normally live harmlessly in the ear are able to proliferate to the point of infection.
Diarrhea is an extremely common problem in both cats and dogs. Mild, transient diarrhea rarely is a cause for concern. Severe or chronic diarrhea is often caused by major medical conditions, and can be damaging to a pet’s health in its own right.
More common causes are listed first. Less common causes are listed later.
Cats of any breed, usually middle-aged.
Diabetes mellitus (known simply as diabetes) is a common and serious disease of cats. The main characteristic of diabetes is an inability to control the level of sugar in the blood. This leads to chronically high blood sugar levels, which in turn lead to the symptoms of the disease.
Adult cats and dogs
Dental disease is by far the most common major health problem of cats and dogs. Despite its name, dental disease does not merely affect the teeth and mouth. Dental disease impacts the entire body, with serious consequences for health, longevity, and well-being.
More common causes are listed first; less common causes are listed later.
Urinating outside of the litter box, also known as house soiling, is one of the most frustrating problems a cat owner can face. Unfortunately, it is also a very common issue.
Urinating outside of the box can be caused by medical conditions or behavioral issues. This article is dedicated to treatment of house soiling as a behavioral problem.