I often get e-mails from folks describing various symptoms their cats are displaying and asking if I have any idea of the causes. Although I may often have ideas or opinions, my answer is always the same: "Even if I were a veterinarian, I would not attempt to diagnose your pet without a thorough personal examination. Your kitty needs to be seen by a veterinarian, without delay."
Because of the frequency of these questions by email, in comments on my cats site, and in the About.com Cats forum, I've devised three simple rules to follow when a cat appears to be sick or injured. Here are the three basic rules:
- "Know Your Cat"
- "When in Doubt, Call the Vet"
- "Know When to Search the Web"
