Real Estate Advertorial Content to keep to them- selves most of the time, cats have a reputation of be- ing more low maintenance pets than their canine coun- terparts. While they are very good at self-maintenance, cats are vulnerable to vari- ous illnesses and other health issues. It is impera- tive for cat owners to recog- nize symptoms of common conditions and seek vet- erinary help to keep cats as healthy as they can be. • Panleukopenia: Com- monly called Panleuk or fe- line distemper, this is a virulent virus in the parovirus group. It is common among feral cats or other areas where large con- gregations of cats gather. PetMD says al- most every cat will come in contact with this virus early in its life. Treatment for fe- line distemper occurs on a case by case basis, though fluid therapy to prevent de- hydration and maintain blood pressure is a common course of treatment. • Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD): Estimates suggest as many as 3 percent of cats who visit the vet have FLUTD, which is a group of diseases with multiple causes. Symptoms include drinking more, straining to urinate, uri- nating in unusual places, crying while uri- nating, licking around the urethra, lack of appetite, and vomiting. • Fleas: Cats are subjected to various parasites, including fleas. Cats that spend time both outside and indoors may be especially vulnerable to flea infestation. Hair loss, skin in- fections, flea dirt on the skin, and constant scratching and licking are signs of flea infesta- tion. If left untreated, fleas can cause anemia. • Feline leukemia virus (FelV): Feline leukemia was discovered in the 1960s and is one of the most commonly diagnosed causes of disease in domestic cats. FelV can se- verely inhibit a cat's immune system, ad- vises the ASPCA. • Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): Another virus that can affect cats' im- mune systems, FIV is slow-acting and may not show symptoms until years af- ter initial infection. Cats may experience secondary infections as the virus takes hold. FIV is transmitted by deep bite wounds, during gestation or during birth. • Deafness: Many kittens are born without the ability to hear. It is more com- mon in white cats with two blue eyes. • Tapeworms: This internal parasite can rob a cat of nutrients as it resides in the small intestines. Tapeworms can sometimes grow to two feet in length. Weight loss and vomiting are potential symptoms. Owners may see a tapeworm coming out of their cat's anus while the cat is sleeping or relaxed. • High-rise syndrome: Unscreened windows pose a danger for curious cats. Falling from an elevated area can cause severe injuries. Contrary to popular be- lief, cats don't always land on their feet. The danger is so prevalent that vet- erinary professionals have dubbed this "high-rise syndrome." Cats are vulnerable to various medical conditions and illnesses. Pet owners can do their research to ensure their com- panion animals get the care they need. (MCC) How to identify common cat health concerns 15 | O akville B eaver | T hursday,M arch 3,2022 insidehalton.com 177 Genesee Drive, Oakville • 1,299,000 Absolutely Gorgeous Semi- Detached Home W/ 2 Car Garage & Fully Finished Basement. Attached Only At Garage. A Beautiful Patterned Concrete Porch & The Upgraded Entry Door Leading To Large Foyer Opening To The Open Concept Living Rm/ Dining Rm. The Bright Kitchen Is Modern White W/ A Gas Stove. Separate 2nd Floor Family Room, Spacious Bedrooms, 2 Gas Fireplaces, A Large Finished Rec Room W/ Private Den Or Home Office, The Large Private Backyard. Extras: Overlooks The Forested Area & Is Complete W/ A Massive Patterned Concrete Entertainers Patio. Great River Oaks School District. Lives Like A Detached. Gas Stove, Fridge, Stainless Steel Dishwasher, Washer, Dryer, Electric Light Fixtures. Fo r Sa le direct 647-402-3066 Call Today For A Private Showing L IST INGFeature LUC JODOIN, COURTIER IMMOBILIER ROYAL LEPAGE MÉRITAS DU SUROÎT P:514-214-8333 • jodoinluc@videotron.ca • lucjodoin.com 1643, CHEMIN DU LAC-SAINT-LOUIS, LÉRY. $880,000 Two or more stories, detached with access to Lac St-Louis by a boat. Built-in oven, dishwasher, Kitchenaid hot plate. Panoramic view of the water, within proximity to Highway, Daycare centre, Golf, Park, Elementary and High school. Make an offer!