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My cat has thin fur, orange gums, eye discharge. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 1 year and 3 months old | 7 lbs

My cat has developed a few patches of thin fur and his gums are slightly orange in some spots. His behavior hasn't changed, but I want to know if I need to take him for immediate care or if he can wait to see a vet. He's also had some eye discharge, but very minimal.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 2nd, 2017

I'm sorry Nelson appears to be having some health problems at the moment! I wouldn't say his symptoms are an emergency, but I would have him seen by a vet for them. There could be a medical cause behind his thin fur such as allergies, mites, fleas, or ringworm, and the eye discharge could be a sign of an eye infection. The vet can diagnose what is causing his symptoms and can prescribe treatment as needed.

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