2. Key Elements of Preventative Care for Cats

1. Regular Veterinary Check-ups

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One of the most important aspects of preventative care is routine veterinary visits. Ideally, your cat should see us every 6 months for a check-up. However, for older cats or those with pre-existing health conditions, we may recommend more frequent visits based on their specific needs. These check-ups allow us to perform a thorough examination and assess your cat’s overall health. During these visits, we will:

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○  Perform a full physical examination

○  Check for early signs of common feline health issues, such as dental disease,

obesity, and heart disease

○  Provide vaccinations if they are due

○  Conduct blood work or urine tests based on your cat’s age to check for any

underlying health conditions

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2. Vaccinations - also referred to as ‘Cat shots or jabs’

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Vaccinations are an essential part of any preventative care routine. Cats are vulnerable to several contagious diseases, some of which can be fatal. Vaccinations help protect your cat from these diseases by stimulating their immune system to produce antibodies.

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Core vaccinations for cats include:

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○  Rabies: A fatal viral disease that can affect both animals and humans.

○  Feline distemper (panleukopenia): A highly contagious and potentially deadly

viral infection.

○  Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus (FVRCP): Viruses that cause upper

respiratory infections.

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In addition to core vaccinations, we may recommend non-core vaccines based on your

cat’s lifestyle, health, and geographic location. For example, if your cat goes outdoors, a vaccine for feline leukemia (FeLV) is ideal to prevent transmission from other cats that may come in contact with while outside.

3. Parasite Prevention

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Cats are susceptible to various parasites, including fleas, ticks, mites, and intestinal worms. These parasites can cause discomfort, transmit diseases, and lead to severe health issues if left untreated. Regular parasite prevention is a crucial part of keeping your cat healthy. Common parasite control methods include:

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○  Flea and tick preventatives: Spot-on treatments, collars, or oral medications can help prevent flea and tick infestations.

○  Deworming: Regular deworming treatments help prevent intestinal worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.

○  Heartworm prevention: Although less common in cats than in dogs, heartworms can still be a threat. Talk to your veterinarian about heartworm prevention if you live in an area where the disease is prevalent.

See our page on Cat Deworming for more in-depth information

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4. Dental Care

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Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in cats, with many cats over the age of three suffering from periodontal disease. Dental issues, such as gum disease, tartar buildup, and tooth decay, can lead to pain, infections, and even systemic health problems affecting the heart and kidneys.

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Preventative dental care is crucial and can include:

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○  Brushing your cat’s teeth: Regular brushing with a cat-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental disease.

○  Dental treats and toys: Specially designed dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

○  Professional dental cleanings: Your veterinarian may recommend professional cleanings under anesthesia to thoroughly clean your cat’s teeth and gums.

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See our page on Cat Dental Care for more in-depth information.

5. Nutrition and Weight Management

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Maintaining a healthy weight is an often-overlooked aspect of preventative care. Obesity is a significant health concern in cats, leading to an increased risk of diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and liver issues. Proper nutrition and portion control are essential in preventing obesity and ensuring that your cat remains fit and healthy.

See our page on Cat Nutrition for more in-depth information

6. Grooming and Coat Care

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Regular grooming helps keep your cat’s coat clean, reduces shedding, and prevents matting. It also provides an opportunity to check for abnormalities such as skin infections, lumps, or parasites. For long-haired breeds, brushing is especially important to prevent mats and tangles, while short-haired cats can benefit from less frequent brushing.

Grooming also includes nail trimming. Regular nail trimming helps prevent injury and reduces the risk of ingrown nails or damage to furniture.

7. Environmental Enrichment and Mental Health

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Preventative care goes beyond physical health to include your cat’s emotional well-being. A stimulated, enriched environment can help prevent behavioral problems and reduce stress.

Here’s how you can enrich your cat’s environment:

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○  Provide interactive toys: Cats need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Toys such as puzzle feeders, scratching posts, and string toys can keep your cat engaged.

○  Create safe outdoor spaces: If your cat enjoys being outside, consider providing a secure outdoor enclosure or ‘catio’ or a leash for supervised outdoor time.

○  Promote social interaction: Spend time playing with and petting your cat to strengthen your bond and provide emotional fulfillment.

8. Monitoring for Early Signs of Illness

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As a cat owner, you play a vital role in identifying potential health issues early. Cats are often very good at masking pain, so it’s important to pay attention to subtle changes in their behavior.

Some signs that could indicate an issue include:

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○  Changes in appetite or drinking habits

○  Lethargy or decreased activity

○  Weight loss or weight gain

○  Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in litter box habits

○  Excessive scratching or grooming

○  Changes in coat appearance or skin conditions

If you notice any of these changes, contact us to schedule a consultation.