Cat Care: General Guidelines

Routine vet care for cats

Regular veterinary care is essential for your cat's overall health and well-being. You should seek veterinary care at the very first sign of illness, rather than waiting a day or two to see whether the problem resolves. The first step is a quick call to your veterinarian, which can mean the difference between a rapid recovery and the potential development of serious complications.

Moreover, remember that cats age about five times faster than humans. The average life span for cats is about 14 years and depends on genetics, nutrition, environment, and vaccinations.

Our friends at Best Friends Animal Society share that cats should receive an annual physical exam until the age of 8, generally speaking, and then biannual exams should be done in a cat’s senior years. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding necessary vaccines. But even if no vaccines are needed, consider that your cat still needs a regular physical checkup. At this time, your veterinarian will also make preventive care recommendations regarding your cat's diet and exercise.

Possible Health problems in cats

Regularly monitor for potential signs of illness in your cat. Best Friends Animal Society shares that important things to be aware of include your cat’s appetite and thirst (increase or decrease), constipation or diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, lumps or bumps, sneezing or nasal discharge, urination problems, weakness, and weight loss.

When you seek veterinary care, be prepared to provide a history of these problems. You should be able to answer these questions:

• How long has the problem been present?
• Is the problem getting worse or staying the same?
• Have any home treatments been tried and what are they?

Be as thorough as possible when telling your vet about the problem. To have the best outcome possible, follow your veterinarian’s treatment recommendations closely. If you are unable to administer the prescribed medications or treatments, report this immediately so that an alternative can be prescribed.

Cat diet

Best Friends Animal Society shares that nutrition is the foundation for a long and healthy life. Choosing a type of food for your cat can be confusing, as there are so many brands. That’s why you should always check with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat’s needs. 

For advice on choosing your cat’s diet, consult with your veterinarian. Should you choose wet or dry food? Some cats prefer one or both. But know that feeding your cat only dry food doesn’t guarantee that the cat won’t need regular dental care.

Spaying/neutering cats

Finally, Best Friends Animal Society says that spaying or neutering your cat can greatly contribute to a healthy, happy life.

A spayed or neutered cat may be less prone to urine marking and fighting with other cats. Heat cycles in female cats are eliminated, and the urge to roam in male cats is reduced. The chance of developing reproductive organ and mammary cancer is lessened or may even be eliminated. And a spayed or neutered cat will not contribute to the homeless pet problem.

Article courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society