RVC reveals most common feline disorders
Periodontal disease is the most commonly diagnosed disorder in cats, according to the study.
A new study by researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has revealed the disorders most frequently diagnosed in UK cats. Gum disease, obesity, and dental disease all rank highly on the list.
The study, published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, looked at the anonymised primary care records of a random sample of 18,249 cats out of the 1,255,130 involved in the VetCompass programme. Every disorder recorded in the care records during 2019 was extracted and links with sex and age were studied.
The ten most common disorders were:
- Periodontal disease (15.2 per cent)
- Obesity (11.6 per cent)
- Non-specified dental disease (8.2 per cent)
- Overgrown nail(s) (5.2 per cent)
- Flea infestation (5.1 per cent)
- Heart murmur (4.4 per cent)
- Weight loss (3.8 per cent)
- Vomiting (3.2 per cent)
- Abscess (3.1 per cent)
- Diarrhoea (2.9 per cent).
The researchers found that male cats were diagnosed with more conditions than females, and older cats more than younger ones. The frequency of specific conditions also significantly varied depending on age and sex.
For example, cats less than eight years old were at higher risk of flea infestation, cat bite injury, and post-operative wound complication, while cats who were older than eight years old were more likely to suffer from disorders including cystitis, over-grooming, and chronic kidney disease.
Male cats were more at risk of heart murmur, lameness and periodontal disease. Female cats, in contrast, were more likely to be diagnosed with disorders such as over-grooming, flea bite hypersensitivity, and overgrown nail(s).
As well as informing cat owners about how best to look after their pets, it is hoped by the researchers that the study will help veterinary professionals to target preventative healthcare depending on the age and sex of their feline patients.
Lead author of the study Dan O’Neill, said: “Everyone who loves cats wants to make their lives happier and healthier. This study helps owners to understand that dental, weight and parasite care are the key health issues of cats in general, so that owners can focus their care and finances better on giving their cats a better life.”
Justine Shotton, British Veterinary Association senior vice-president, added: “Cats have a reputation for being easy to keep but this new data really demonstrates how important it is for owners to ensure that they’re keeping on top of their cats’ basic welfare needs. Whether your cat is the laidback type or a bundle of feline energy, regular health checks and a good relationship with your vet can ensure that you’re not missing the subtle signs that they’re unwell or in pain.”
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
