8 health issues in cats and dogs to watch out for

Published October 2025 | 5 min read
Expert contributor: Dr Matteo Bordicchia, specialist in small animal medicine
Words by Alana Wulff

If you have cats and dogs in your family, these expert tips can help protect their health and save you costly vet visits.

Whether paying for emergency surgery or a routine check-up, Australians are sparing no expense when it comes to the health of their pets. A survey from Animal Medicines Australia found that, in the 12 months prior to March 2025, Australians spent a staggering $1.9 billion on vet services – and that doesn't include the millions of dollars we spent on health treatments, dietary supplements, veterinary medicines and pet healthcare products.

While it’s clear the wellbeing and happiness of our animal companions is a top priority, the cost of procedures, tests and surgeries can be a heavy burden.

Vet Dr Matteo Bordicchia, a specialist in small animal medicine, says there are a number of small but important steps we can take to protect the health of our much-loved pets – and avoid expensive treatments down the track. It starts with focusing on prevention and taking a proactive approach to their care.

Dr Bordicchia says these are some of the health conditions pet owners should be aware of – and take care to avoid.

1. Leptospirosis

Most common in warm and moist areas, this bacterial infection affects both humans and animals and is often caused by exposure to contaminated water sources. “In NSW particularly, dogs are at greatest risk if they live in or visit areas with high rodent activity, such as suburban Sydney, Newcastle or the South Coast – and if they drink or swim in stagnant water,” explains Dr Bordicchia.

Early symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy – and in severe cases can cause kidney or liver issues.

To protect your pet, especially those at risk, vaccination against leptospirosis is the first and most effective course of action. This includes a primary course of two doses administered two to four weeks apart. “You [can] then follow this up with annual boosters, which provide effective protection,” Dr Bordicchia adds. “You can also take simple environmental measures, such as preventing access to stagnant water, controlling rodents and avoiding contaminated areas.”

2. Parvovirus

Highly contagious and often causing severe illness, parvovirus is a viral infection that mainly affects younger dogs and can occasionally occur in cats. It spreads through contact with infected animals or contaminated environments, with symptoms including severe vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and lethargy.

“Parvovirus poses the greatest threat to unvaccinated puppies, particularly between six weeks and six months of age, and may be more severe in certain breeds,” says Dr Bordicchia. “Thankfully parvovirus is a core vaccine, so puppies can and should be vaccinated early and receive boosters every two to four weeks until at least 16 weeks of age.”  

Following this, a single booster shot within one year is recommended, and then boosters every three years.

3. Heartworm

Another common infection in cats and dogs is heartworm, caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites. Early symptoms can be subtle but progress to severe stomach upsets, breathing difficulties or heart failure if left untreated.

“In cats, signs may include subtle respiratory issues or sudden collapse, while coughing, exercise intolerance, fatigue or signs of heart failure are seen in dogs,” says Dr Bordicchia.

To avoid this nasty infection, a monthly prophylactic medication like a chewable tablet or topical application (applied to the skin) is required – even for indoor cats and dogs. Not great at keeping to a monthly schedule? A yearly injection could be the answer and is available from your vet.

4. Cataracts

Yes, even our furry friends can be struck down by cataracts. Causing the lens of the eye to become cloudy or opaque, cataracts can lead to blurred vision or even blindness. Causes include ageing, diabetes and genetics. “Thankfully, surgical removal can be an effective treatment,” says Dr Bordicchia.

Maintaining your pet’s overall health can help your cat or dog avoid this eye condition as much as possible as they age. This includes managing their weight and diabetes risk.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes in cats and dogs can be quite common, particularly in older or overweight pets. “Long-term corticosteroid use is another significant risk factor,” says Dr Bordicchia.

While there are different causes, some related to particular species and breeds, it’s best to take a holistic approach to your pet’s health, keeping them lean and fit by maintaining a nourishing diet and exercise plan.

Changes in weight and appetite, and increased drinking and urination, are common signs of diabetes. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to take your pet to the vet. Treatment may include insulin and a dietary change.

For cats with uncomplicated diabetes, a new oral treatment is now globally available as an alternative to insulin injections. “This has the potential to also revolutionise care in dogs in the future,” says Dr Bordicchia.

6. Kidney disease

Kidney disease can affect both cats and dogs. This condition often affects cats, especially as they age. “It’s very common in older cats, and some of the causes include genetics, hypertension, infection and even toxins,” says Dr Bordicchia. “You might start to notice increased thirst and urination, poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting and lethargy.”

To prevent the onset of kidney disease in cats, he recommends staying in touch with your vet to support the ongoing, overall health of your pet. “While it’s not a curable condition, early diagnosis means we can use dietary and medical management to preserve quality of life.”

7. Dental disease

Dental disease can affect both cats and dogs, starting with plaque and tartar build-up, which can quickly progress to painful gum inflammation if left untreated. This can also lead to tooth loss or even heart and kidney problems if bacteria enter the bloodstream.

Symptoms to watch out for include bad breath, red or swollen gums and difficulty eating. “You’ll want to start looking at daily brushing, dental diets and an annual vet check-up,” says Dr Bordicchia. “Cleaning in particular is essential.”

Your vet can explain how to brush your pet’s teeth and advise on the right dental products to use to maintain your pet’s dental health at home.

8. Allergies

There’s nothing worse than feeling itchy all day, and the same can be said for our pets. “Skin issues such as itching, redness, ear inflammation and hair loss are common,” says Dr Bordicchia. “This can be due to environmental allergens, fleas, food sensitivities and genetic predispositions.”

While these issues can’t always be prevented, knowing what triggers your cat or dog and working with your vet to establish solutions can help to manage symptoms and may improve their quality of life.