Cat Care

As many of you already know, cats make wonderful pets. In fact, we find that most people who say they do not care for cats have actually never owned a cat. Once you really get to know a cat you will, of course, fall in love with it.

There are many breeds of cats although less in number than breeds of dogs. Cats also vary much less in size between breeds than do dog breeds. Cats vary most in color, coat patterns, length of hair, and in their facial structure. Cats are natural hunters and true carnivores. Because of this, they require certain nutrients in their diets and cannot be fed as a small dog. Cats normally drink very little water, although as with all pets, should always have an ample supply of fresh water. If you do notice your cat drinking water often this may be a sign of a health problem and should be brought to our attention.

Cats do lend themselves well to indoor living and are great pets for busy individuals, as they usually require less care and attention than dogs. Some people allow their cats to roam unattended outdoors but we find this is often a recipe for problems. Outdoor going cats typically do not live as long as indoor only cats as outdoor cats frequently are victims of trauma, being shot, trapped, or sustaining fight wounds. Fighting with other cats is a common way deadly viral infections are spread such as Feline Leukemia Virus or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.  

Unlike dogs, which are pack animals, cats are solitary animals by nature. Cats do best as a single pet in the household although they do get along with or tolerate other cats or dogs. Any cat that lives in a multi-cat household can become stressed while seeming to maintain a normal appearance.  Even outside cats can be a source of stress to your cat living indoors.

Cats should be fed a high quality premium cat food for optimal health. They should be neutered or spayed by 6 months of age. This helps prevent breast cancer in females, various reproductive diseases, and also helps to prevent urine marking or spraying in male cats. Grooming is important in cats and most take care of this themselves. Longhaired cats, however, do require regular and frequent brushing to help avoid hair matting. Although most cats are fastidious with their own grooming, if your cat appears unkempt it may be a sign of an underlying health problem and should be brought to our attention.

Younger healthy cats should receive a physical examination at least annually to help detect any health problems in their early stages when they are typically easier to manage. Healthy senior cats need a health check-up including any indicated laboratory work every 6 months. More frequent monitoring is needed if a health problem exists. Cats are also screened for intestinal parasites (worms) annually to semiannually. External parasites such as fleas are best controlled with prescription flea products on a regular basis.

Cats should receive vaccinations at varying frequency to help prevent some infectious diseases. Speak to Dr. Lance about the vaccination program that best suits your cat. Cats require a monthly heartworm preventative to protect against this mosquito-spread disease. Dental care is important in cats and we can teach you how to care for your cat’s teeth and gums.

As you might have noticed, when it comes to caring for cats Dr. Lance is the expert. She will help you keep your feline friend as healthy as possible. Give us a call today to have Dr. Lance examine your cat and consult with you on any aspect of its health care.