5, Nov 2022
7 Subtle Signs Your Pet’s Immune System Might Be Weakened

Is your pet always getting sick? Do they seem to catch every little bug that comes around? If so, it might be time to look closely at their immune system.

Like humans, pets can have weak immune systems that make them more susceptible to illnesses and diseases. However, unlike humans, pets can’t tell us when they feel under the weather. This is why it’s important to be aware of the signs that your pet’s immune system might be compromised. This way, you can take steps to help boost your pet’s immunity and keep them healthy and happy. Here are the seven most common ones:

1. They’re Always Getting Sick

If your pet seems to catch every cold, flu, or stomach bug, it’s a sign that their immune system might be weakened. Cats and dogs with weak immune systems are more susceptible to illnesses and diseases because their bodies aren’t able to fight off infection as effectively.

Sometimes, being sick frequently suggests that they suffer from pet’s internal medicine conditions, such as kidney disease or diabetes. If your pet is constantly ill, it’s essential to talk to your veterinarian so they can help diagnose the problem and develop a treatment plan.

2. They’re Always Tired

If your pet is always tired, it could be a sign that their immune system is weakened. Note that pets with weak immune systems often have low energy levels and always feel exhausted. You should also observe if your pet is sleeping more than usual.

3. They Have No Appetite

When your pet doesn’t have a strong appetite, their body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to function properly. This makes them more vulnerable to diseases. 

4. They’re Losing Weight and Hair

Sudden weight loss and hair loss are also signs that your pet’s immune system might be weakened. In severe cases, this might be an indication that they have cancer. Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs and the second top killer of cats.

Aside from these signs, watch out for the following other signs that tell your pet might have cancer:

  • Lumps or bumps on the skin
  • Sores that don’t heal
  • Bleeding from the mouth, nose, or anus
  • Abnormal swellings
  • Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing

You need to take your cat or dog to the veterinarian once you see any of these signs. Early detection and treatment are crucial to the survival of your pet. Treatment options can include any or a combination of the following:

5. They Have Allergies

Pets can have allergies just like humans. And, just like humans, pets with allergies are more likely to have weak immune systems. Allergies can arise when the immune system overreacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, dust, or dander.

The symptoms of allergies in pets can vary, but some common signs to look out for include:

  • Sneezing
  • Itchy eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face or extremities

6. They Have Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases result from the condition when the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body by mistake. This can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on the type of autoimmune disease.

Some common signs of autoimmune disease in pets include:

  • Chronic inflammation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
  • Joint pain
  • Lameness

Autoimmune diseases can be hard to diagnose because the symptoms can mimic other conditions. In some cases, an autoimmune illness can affect your pet’s brain or spinal cord. This can lead to neurological problems, such as seizures or paralysis. In this case, they may need neurosurgery, a type of surgery performed on the nervous system. Look here for more information.

7. They Have Skin Problems

Skin problems are common in pets, and various reasons can cause them. However, if your pet is always scratching or licking their skin, it could be a sign that their immune system is weakened.

When this happens, it can’t fight off infection as effectively. This can lead to skin problems like hot spots, infections, and allergies. 

Keep in Mind

Your pet’s immune system can tell many things about their overall health. Being aware and alert to the signs and symptoms of a weak immune system can help catch illnesses and diseases early on and get your pet the treatment they need. If you see any of these signs in your pet, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Remember, early detection and treatment are crucial to your cat’s or dog’s survival.