You may have noticed that we like to keep up with various pet-themed holidays. Many of the cat awareness events this month are focused on spaying and neutering: Beat the Heat Month, Feline Fix by Five Month, National Prevent a Litter Month, and Spay/Neuter Awareness Month. While spaying and neutering are very important, getting Fluffy fixed is only one aspect of keeping her happy and healthy. A Youngsville, NC vet offers some information on this below.

What Can I Do At Home To Check The Health Of My Cat?

Your veterinarian should be the ultimate authority on this. However, you can monitor Fluffy’s health in between appointments by observing her appearance, appetite, and behavior.

Generally, healthy cats have bright, clear eyes. Fluffy should have soft, clean fur, and should be alert and inquisitive, and perhaps a little (or a lot) playful and mischievous, at least when she’s actually awake. When she’s not meowing for anything, she should breathe quietly. 

You can also discreetly monitor your cat’s body condition. As you pet, hold, or let your feline buddy snooze on your lap, check for things like swelling, bumps, heat, stiffness, or bruising, as well as weight gain or loss.

Contact your Youngsville, NC veterinarian immediately if you notice anything amiss.

What Are The Most Common Cat Illnesses?

Although Fluffy may believe she is invincible, she is just as susceptible to illness and injury as any other animal. In fact, kitties can suffer from a variety of health problems. However, some are more common than others.

Among them are:

  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
  • Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
  • Dental Issues
  • Respiratory Infections
  • Kidney Disease
  • Arthritis
  • FeLV

Parasites and obesity are also common, and can contribute to a variety of health problems.

Taking your cat to the vet regularly will go a long way towards protecting her from illness and injury.

When Do Aging Cats Start Having Health Problems?

Although Fluffy usually ages gracefully and slowly, she will become more vulnerable to illness and injury as she ages. You may begin to notice changes around age ten or after. These changes may be mild and gradual at first. Your kitty may start sleeping more, and she may not be as frisky as she was before. As she grows older, she may become heavier and have difficulty jumping and climbing.

Several sources disagree on the age at which cats should be considered seniors: some say it’s nine, ten, eleven, or 12. Cornell Feline Health Center says 12 is the appropriate age. Most sources do agree that kitties are considered geriatric at 15.

Your veterinarian may recommend more frequent visits once your furry friend reaches her golden years. Your pet’s care regimen may also need to be adjusted a bit. Fluffy may also need ramps or stairs, as well as help keeping her fur clean. Some cats will also need special diets. Contact your veterinarian for specific advice.

What Are the Signs That My Cat Is Unwell?

Cats have a natural tendency to hide signs of illness. There is a reason for this: predators are drawn to animals that show signs of weakness. Unfortunately that means you may not realize your pet is ill until she is very  sick. Keep a close eye out.

Here are some things to look for:

  • Hiding
  • Uncharacteristic Vocalizations 
  • Unkempt Fur
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Litterbox Avoidance
  • Respiratory Issues
  • Reduced Appetite
  • Increased Thirst
  • Increased Urination
  • Discolored Gums
  • Discharge
  • Sudden Weight Loss Or Gain
  • Grumpiness
  • Uncharacteristic Behavior

It is important to remember that all cats are unique. Anything out of character in your cat could be a warning sign. For instance, a normally affectionate cat may hide or hiss if they are ill, while a cat that is more aloof may suddenly start demanding attention.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your Youngsville, NC veterinarian immediately.

When Should I Take My Cat To The Youngsville, NC Vet Clinic?

You’ll need to visit your vet multiple times during that crucial first year. Kittens need exams, parasite control, and their initial vaccines. Spay/neuter surgery and microchipping are also important.

Beyond that, it may vary a bit. Healthy indoor cats may only need to come in once a year, while cats allowed outside may need to come in more frequently. Senior cats and those with health issues also need to visit more frequently. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Is Stress Bad For My Cat’s Health?

In recent years, we’ve learned a lot about the effects of stress on the body. This is true for pets as well. If Fluffy is scared, she may stop eating, and she may cower in a corner.

Make sure your feline pal gets lots of attention and toys! Keep that motor going by making sure your cat feels loved, safe, comfy, and maybe a bit pampered. Aside from the essentials like food, water, and veterinary care, cats need stimulation and enrichment. Cats love to play, so offer a variety of toys and engage in daily playtime with your feline friend. Providing cat trees and climbing structures can also satisfy their natural instinct to explore. And, to make your cat feel like a queen or king, set up a comfy window seat where they can enjoy the view.

What Can I Do To Keep My Cat Healthy?

OUr feline pals are easy keepers, and are usually pretty hardy. Providing Fluffy with good food, fresh water, clean litter, and regular veterinary care will cover most of the basics.

Beyond that, the single most important thing you can do here is to keep your pet inside. Cats that are allowed to roam outside face many different dangers, including cars and traffic, weather, stray cats, loose dogs, chemicals, parasites, and, sadly, even some people.

We also recommend petproofing your home. Cats are naturally curious and will investigate their surroundings. Your beloved Fluffy may even think there’s a mouse under the couch or that the empty cabinet is the perfect place to hide from the dreaded vacuum cleaner. While it may be amusing to watch your furry pal playfully pouncing on various objects or sticking her nose into things, it’s important to remember that this behavior can also pose some risks.

Remove or address anything that isn’t safe. That includes small or sharp objects, such as beads, buttons, craft kit pieces, safety pins … the list goes on. Anything ropy or stringy is also a concern. Cats love batting at strings, but unfortunately, these items can cause fatal digestive issues if swallowed.

One of the most frequent emergencies for cats is poisoning, which can occur from various household items. Lilies are especially toxic: ingesting even a small amount of water or a nibble on a leaf can result in organ failure for felines. For further information on harmful and non-harmful plants, visit the ASPCA website.

Household cleaners and automotive products are also included in the list of potential hazards, along with detergents, drain openers, paint, turpentine and others. Your veterinarian can provide additional information.

In Conclusion: Our feline friends are delightful and charming companions. While they’re relatively low-maintenance, they require love, care, and attention. Follow the tips in this article, and ask your vet for further advice.

Do you have questions about your kitty’s health or care? As your local Youngsville, NC pet hospital, we are here to help. If you have any questions, or if your cat is overdue for an appointment, feel free to contact us!