Routine health care refers to the non-emergency, general care that is needed to keep your cat healthy throughout its life. This includes routine veterinary care for vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care; proper nutrition; grooming; and protection from household hazards. Importance of Veterinary Care
How to take care of a healthy cat?
All cats should be spayed (females) or neutered (males) unless they are to be used for breeding. This prevents unwanted kittens and avoids potentially serious future medical problems, such as uterine cancer or infection. Spaying or neutering also decreases the urge to wander outside, which can result in car accidents, fights, and other injuries.
What should I know about my cat’s health?
Cats should be given medication to prevent heartworms and intestinal parasites all year long in warmer climates or those living outdoors. Many of these medications also prevent fleas and ticks. A parasite prevention protocol can be tailored to a cat’s specific needs within their personal environment. Immunizations.
How can I protect my cat from infectious diseases?
Vaccinations Vaccines – Core Core vaccinations are recommended for all cats. Find out what your cat needs and when. Vaccine-Associated Feline Sarcoma Find out which vaccines may cause tumors, and...
What is a preventive health care plan for cats?
Cats require taurine, an essential amino acid, for heart and eye health. The food you choose should be balanced for the life stage of your cat or kitten. Properly balanced foods will contain taurine. You will need to provide fresh, clean water at all times, and wash and refill your cat’s water bowls daily.
What preventive medicine do cats need?
All cats (without medical problems that prevent vaccination) should be immunized against rabies, feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus 1, and calicivirus (usually in a combined FVRCP vaccination). Cats at risk of exposure should also be vaccinated for feline leukemia virus. Weight Maintenance.
What medicine do cats need regularly?
FVRCP: Includes Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (also called the feline distemper vaccine). Since these serious infections are easily spread, boosters are recommended yearly for all cats. Kittens need to have booster vaccines every 3 weeks until they are at least 4 months old.
Do cats need monthly preventatives?
The current recommendation from AHS and CAPC is for cats to take simple anti-vector illness medicine every month. Revolution is a topical parasite preventative that protects cats from parasites and fleas, and also kills flea eggs and nits.Dec 31, 2020
How can I improve my cat's health?
Brush Your Cat Every Day. ... Don't Feed Your Cat Too Much Dry Food. ... Provide a Sufficient Number of Litter Boxes. ... Don't Assume You Know Why a Cat Is Peeing Outside the Box. ... Train Your Cat to Use a Scratching Post. ... Spay or Neuter Your Cat. ... Travel Safely With Your Pet. ... Choose a Cat-Friendly Vet.Sep 15, 2020
How often do cats need medicine?
You should take your adult cat in for a checkup at least twice per year, or every six months. Checkups will usually consist of dental cleanings, inspections, and vaccinations. Even if your cat is an indoor cat, they will still require distemper and rabies vaccines.Jun 3, 2019
Do cats need heartworm prevention?
Unlike in dogs, there is no treatment that can kill adult heartworms in cats. Heartworm prevention is therefore essential for the life and health of cats.Jan 11, 2020
What does Revolution Plus do for cats?
Revolution PLUS works fast on adult fleas as well as their eggs and larvae that hide in and around the home to prevent infestations. Revolution PLUS also reduces the signs of flea allergy dermatitis bringing fast relief to your cat.
What does Heartgard do for cats?
Heartgard is a once-a-month oral pet med used in cats and kittens as a combination heartworm preventive and intestinal wormer. Heartgard Chewables kill the immature form of the heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis). They are also used for the removal and control of hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme and A. brasiliense).
Do indoor cats need flea treatment?
Every cat, yes, even indoor cats, needs to be on a monthly flea and tick prevention medication. Talk to your vet about the right option for your cat - you've got choices! - and be consistent. You'll never be able to make your home a fortress against fleas but you can help your cat withstand the attack.Jul 24, 2019
What health problems can cats have?
But even your fastidious feline can't prevent some of these more common cat diseases and health issues.Vomiting. Vomiting is a very common problem with cats with a multitude of causes. ... Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases (FLUTD) ... Fleas. ... Tapeworms. ... Diarrhea. ... Eye Problems.
How can I help my sick cat without going to the vet?
What can I do if my cat is being sick?Remove food for two hours, but continue to provide water.After this time, try offering a teaspoon of their usual food or bland low-fat cooked food such as chicken or white fish.If they keep this down, offer small amounts every few hours for the. ... Then go back to your usual routine.Feb 2, 2017
How do you enrich an indoor cat's life?
On the Prowl for Adventure: 7 Ways to Enrich Your Indoor Cat's LifeFeeding. Finding interesting sources of food is a constant pursuit for outdoor cats, and we often underestimate the importance of this activity. ... Watering. ... Eliminating. ... Scratching and Clawing. ... Hiding. ... Brushing and Petting. ... Nibbling. ... Training and Competing.Mar 1, 2015
What is preventive care for cats?
A preventive health care plan revolves around regularly scheduled exams of an apparently healthy cat in order to maintain her optimum health. To standardize wellness plans, the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) and the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) gathered medical information from various specialty groups (American Heartworm Society, American Association of Feline Practitioners, Companion Animal Parasite Council, to name a few) and devised guidelines focused on preventive health care for cats.
Why do cats need to be given medication?
Cats should be given medication to prevent heartworms and intestinal parasites all year long in warmer climates or those living outdoors. Many of these medications also prevent fleas and ticks. A parasite prevention protocol can be tailored to a cat’s specific needs within their personal environment. Immunizations.
What are the two groups of cats that need to be immunized?
Immunizations. Vaccines are divided into two groups: core vaccines and non-core (optional vaccines). All cats (without medical problems that prevent vaccination) should be immunized against rabies, feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus 1, and calicivirus (usually in a combined FVRCP vaccination).
Why does my cat lose hair?
Hair loss may indicate systemic disease or hormonal imbalances. Testing. Even though the incidence of feline heartworms is less than canine infection, cats suffer serious effects from heartworms and should be tested, especially in warmer climates.
How old is a 10 year old cat?
After that, one feline year is about 4 human years which means that a 4 year old cat is about 33 years old and a 10 year old cat is about 57 years old. "The bottom line is this: cats age faster than we do.". The bottom line is this: cats age faster than we do.
Why do cats hide their illnesses?
Plus, innate survival instincts make cats hide their illnesses so they do not appear weak and vulnerable to predators. That means thorough physical exams are crucial. In addition, since your veterinarian cannot see what is going on inside a cat’s body, blood and urine tests are needed to complete the health picture.
How often should cats have their teeth cleaned?
Cats may need their teeth cleaned every 1-2 years, but this frequency can vary more or less depending on a number of factors including preventive care.
Grooming
Pretty Kitties: Get the Basics on Brushing Regular brushing maximizes shine and minimizes hairballs.
Fleas and Ticks
All About Flea and Tick Medications Spot medications, shampoos, collars: How flea and tick treatments work.
Other Care
High-Rise Syndrome Why cats fall from high places, and how to keep your cat safe.
Vaccinations
Vaccines – Core Core vaccinations are recommended for all cats. Find out what your cat needs and when.
How to keep a cat healthy?
Between visits to your cat's veterinarian, here are 10 ways to keep your cat healthy. 1. Groom your cat regularly. Whether your cat has short or long fur, he will benefit greatly from regular brushing or combing. This helps remove the dead hair from his coat so he doesn't ingest it while self-grooming.
How to treat a cat with a bump?
Irregularities such as lumps, bumps or sore spots can then be investigated right away by your veterinarian. 2. Provide fresh water daily. Clean, fresh water is essential for your cat's good health.
What does it mean when a cat changes his litter box?
A change in litter box habits sometimes means that a cat has a urinary tract infection or other medical issue. 5. Train your cat to use a scratching post. Not only will this help prevent damage to your furniture, it will help your cat stretch her muscles and keep her claws in top condition.
What can a vet tell you about a cat?
Your vet can also tell you if your cat is at a healthy weight.
Why does my cat pee outside the litter box?
Sometimes a cat will urinate outside his litter box if the box is dirty. But before you blame the accident on the state of the litter box or your cat's naughty behavior, schedule a visit to the veterinarian. A change in litter box habits sometimes means that a cat has a urinary tract infection or other medical issue. 5.
What to do if your cat doesn't drink from a bowl?
If your cat doesn't seem to drink from a bowl, consider providing her with a tall glass (some cats don't like to bend down to drink) or a cat fountain. Be sure to replenish the water with a fresh supply every day. 3. Make sure you have enough litter boxes.
Can cats be smaller than dogs?
Choose a cat-friendly vet. It seems to go without saying that cats are not smaller versions of dogs. That said, it follows that cats have different veterinary requirements than dogs do. A veterinarian specializing in feline health and anatomy can be a valuable ally in keeping your cat in her best possible health.
How to keep a cat healthy?
Keep in mind that even cats that look healthy can spread germs to people and other animals. Get your cat vaccinated. Keep your cat up-to-date on routine vaccinations like rabies and feline distemper vaccine. Vaccinations can help protect your cat from dangerous diseases and help them live a longer, healthier life.
How to protect yourself from getting sick from a cat?
One of the best ways you can protect yourself from getting sick is to thoroughly wash your hands after handling, cleaning up after, or feeding cats. By providing your cat with routine veterinary care and following the Healthy People tips, you are less likely to get sick from touching, petting, or owning a cat.
Why are cats important to people?
Healthy Cats. Resources. Research has shown that cats can provide emotional support, improve moods, and contribute to the overall morale of their owners. Cats are also credited with promoting socialization among older individuals and physically or mentally disabled people.
How old are cats at risk of fleas?
People can be exposed to the bacteria through the scratch or lick of an infected cat. Who is at risk: Young cats (less than 1 year of age), strays or cats living in shelters, cats with current or previous flea infestation, and cats that hunt are most likely to have the bacteria.
How many people have cats in the US?
Nearly 40 million households in the United States have pet cats. Although cats are great companions, cat owners should be aware that sometimes cats can carry harmful germs that can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses.
How long does a cat's fever last?
Although most infected cats do not appear sick, some cats may experience mild illness with fever that lasts for approximately 2-3 days. Rarely, the disease can cause more serious signs in cats, including vomiting, red eyes, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, and/or low appetite.
What is tapeworm in cats?
Cat Tapeworm ( Dipylidium caninum) The cat tapeworm is a parasite spread to dogs, cats, and people through the ingestion of infected fleas. This parasite is common in cats but rarely causes illness in pets or people. How it spreads: The tapeworm is spread when a cat or person swallows an infected flea.
How to keep cats from scratching?
Cats need to scratch! When a cat scratches, the old outer nail sheath is pulled off and the sharp, smooth claws underneath are exposed. Cutting your cat’s nails every two to three weeks will keep them relatively blunt and less likely to harm the arms of both humans and furniture. Provide your cat with a sturdy scratching post, at least three feet high. The post should also be stable enough that it won't wobble during use, and should be covered with rough material such as sisal, burlap or tree bark. Many cats also like scratching pads.
How to pick up a cat?
To pick up your cat, place one hand behind the front legs and another under the hindquarters. Lift gently. Never pick up a cat by the scruff of the neck or by the front legs.
What do cats wear when they are outside?
A safety collar with an elastic panel will allow your cat to break loose if the collar gets caught on something. And for both indoor and outdoor cats, an ID tag or an implanted microchip can help ensure that your cat is returned if he or she becomes lost.
Can cats live indoors?
Be sure to wash the bedding often. Please keep your cat indoors. Outdoor cats do not live as long as indoor cats. Outdoor cats are at risk of trauma from cars, or from fights with other cats, raccoons and free-roaming dogs. Coyotes are known to eat cats.
Do cats need baths?
Most cats stay relatively clean and rarely need a bath, but you should brush or comb your cat regularly. Frequent brushing helps keep your cat's coat clean, reduces the amount of shedding and cuts down on the incidence of hairballs. Please visit our Cat Grooming Tips page for more information.
Can you give a cat a medicine?
Never give your cat medication that has not been prescribed by a veterinarian. If you suspect that your animal has ingested a poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for 24-hour animal poison information at (888) 426-4435.
Can you feed baby food to a cat?
Many people feed baby food to a cat or kitten who is refusing food or not feeling well Please read labels carefully: If the baby food contains onion or garlic powder, your pet could be poisoned. Take your pet to your veterinarian if signs of anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting or lethargy continue for more than two days.
What is the medical need of a cat?
Medical Needs. It is important to ensure that your cat is getting yearly veterinary examinations throughout his life. You’ll also need to keep up with your cat’s flea and tick meds and dental health. Here’s a guideline for your adult cat’s medical needs.
What is the best way to care for a kitten?
Vaccines. Vaccination is a very important aspect of kitten health care. There are many serious but preventable diseases that your veterinarian will recommend vaccinating against. While many shelters will give the first round of vaccines, you will need to take your kitten to the vet to continue the series of vaccines.
Why does my cat not have appetite?
Dental Health. Dental disease is extremely common in geriatric cats and may contribute to a lack of appetite if they are having oral pain. Keeping up with your cat’s dental health from a young age can be very beneficial in avoiding or prolonging the time between dental cleanings once your cat is geriatric.
How old is a cat considered a senior?
While every cat is different, cats are classified as “seniors” at about 8 years of age. Becoming a senior cat can bring about changes that require more regular veterinary attention. When your cat reaches 7-8 years of age, start talking to your veterinarian about their recommendations for future monitoring.
What to check for in a kitten's first vet visit?
Your veterinarian will do a thorough physical exam that includes: Checking your kitten’s eyes and nose for any abnormalities or discharge. Checking the mouth for any sign of cleft palate or unerupted kitten teeth.
Why are cats so cute?
While kittens are adorable, more cats means more mouths to feed, more veterinary bills, and the risk of an expensive C-section or medical treatment if something goes wrong. Another consideration for female cats is the risk of ovarian cysts, uterine infection (pyometra), and mammary tumors.
How often should senior cats have blood work?
Senior cats should have blood work (including a thyroid level and testing for retroviruses such as feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus ), a urinalysis, and a fecal check every six to 12 months. Cats with health conditions may require these diagnostics to be done more often.
Why do cats need shots?
Shots protect your cat from diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. They can also strengthen their immune system. Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, your vet can help you figure out which vaccines are best and how often your kitty should get shots. It usually depends on their age, overall health, and lifestyle.
What is the FVRCP shot for cats?
Feline viral rhinotracheitis. The feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccinations often come in a combination shot (FVRCP), which is sometimes called the “distemper shot.”. Your cat may need extra shots depending on how much time they spend outside, how often they are around other cats, ...
When should kittens get shots?
When to give vaccines. Kittens should start getting vaccinations when they are 6 to 8 weeks old until they are about 16 weeks old. Then they must be boostered a year later.. The shots come in a series every 3 to 4 weeks.
Can a kitten get leukemia?
Feline leukemia: This serious viral infection spreads through many bodily fluids like saliva, feces, urine, and milk. The vaccine is recommended in kittens and then 12 months later. Future vaccine recommendation will be based on the cat's lifestyle. Feline leukemia cannot be cured, so prevention is a priority.
Can cats stay inside all the time?
Continued. If your cat stays inside all of the time, you might think they are automatically protected from these kinds of diseases. But they could still catch airborne germs that might come in through a window or door. And even the most docile kitties sometimes make a run for it.
Do indoor cats get viruses?
And even the most docile kitties sometimes make a run for it. If your cat gets outside, you want to make sure they are protected. Indoor cats may also pick up bacteria and viruses when they stay at a kennel and if you bring a new cat home. Keep in mind that vaccines don’t offer total immunity from diseases.
What are the basic things a cat needs?
1. The Essential Cat. Your cat has certain needs, some of those are basic: food, water, liter box, and bowls or glasses. Bowls are used for food, while drinking water from glasses make cats feel fancy and elegant. Carriers are also important, as are ID collars ...
How to get rid of hairballs on cats?
This is your decision and may depend greatly on how cooperative the cat is. If you do decide to wash your cat, use a special cat shampoo and warm water. But the best thing to help your cat with grooming is brushing. It will help remove excess hair, which leads to hairballs for cats.
Why is holistic vets important?
Holistic vets can be advantageous because they use natural remedies, as well as trusted medication, to keep your pet in good health. Regardless of the type of vet, make sure you bring in your cat to the vet's office for its shots and once-a-year "wellness" checkup.
Can you put food in a bowl for a cat?
However, it's important you only put enough food for the cat’s morning meal. If cats are given too much food, they tend to overeat.
Do cats like water?
Food and water are essential for any living being. Likewise, cats like their water fresh and clean. You can even splurge and buy water fountains that provide your cat with filtered, flowing water. Now we know what you're thinking, "I'm not spending that kind of money!". Don't worry.
What is the best food for cats?
Canned Food. Canned cat food has a moisture content of at least 75 percent, making it a good dietary source of water. It is generally the most expensive type of cat food, but is also highly palatable for most cats. Many different varieties are available, which can be helpful if your cat is a finicky eater.
What do cats eat?
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they rely on nutrients found only in animal products. Cats evolved as hunters that consume prey that contains high amounts of protein, moderate amounts of fat, and a minimal amount of carbohydrates, and their diet still requires these general proportions today.
How long can dry cat food last?
If you do use dry food, it is important to store unused portions in a cool, dry location, and not to use the food after its expiration date. Owners often buy large amounts of dry food that can sometimes be stored for months, so checking the expiration date before feeding it to your cat is very important.
How to keep a cat from eating?
Keep in mind that heavy-traffic areas, noise, the presence of other animals, dirty food containers, or nearby litter boxes can deter a cat from eating. Try to be sensitive to your cat’s eating behavior, and make necessary adjustments. Maintaining a healthy weight is another important consideration.
Why is it important to store cat food in an airtight container?
It’s a good idea to store dry cat food in an airtight container to help prevent nutrient deterioration and maintain flavor. Semi-Moist Food.
What is semi-moist food?
Semi-Moist Food. Meat and meat byproducts are the primary ingredients of semi-moist food, which contains approximately 35 percent moisture. Other materials, including soybean meal, cereals, grain byproducts, and preservatives are added to make the final product. The cost of semi-moist food is generally mid-range.
What are the stages of a cat's life cycle?
These stages include kittenhood, adulthood, pregnancy, and lactation. The nutritional claim on the cat food label should state the stage of a cat’s life cycle for which the food is complete and balanced, and that it meets the requirements of the AAFCO.
