August 22nd is Take Your Cat To The Vet Day! We know, our feline patients would probably rather celebrate Hug Your Cat Day, Cat World Domination Day, or Take Your Dog To The Vet Day. However, proper veterinary care is crucial to your pet’s health! Kitties are very small and vulnerable, and are prone to illness and injury. Here, a Bourne, MA vet discusses Fluffy’s changing veterinary care needs.
Kittens
Do you have a kitten? Get your tiny ball of fur started out on the right paw in life by bringing her in to meet her doctor. Little Fluffy will need a thorough exam. Baby cats also need to get started on vaccinations and parasite control. Microchipping and spay neuter surgery should be on the agenda as well.
Adult Cats
Once your feline pal is an adult, she may only need to come in once a year. Of course, this will vary a bit from kitty to kitty. If Fluffy goes outdoors, she’ll need more frequent appointments than an indoor cat would. Cats with health issues will also need to come in more often. Follow your vet’s appointment schedule.
Seniors
Just like people, cats become more susceptible to illness or injury as they age. Once Fluffy becomes an official kitty retiree—usually around age nine—she’ll benefit from more frequent appointments. It’s easier, cheaper, and more effective to treat illnesses when they are diagnosed early on.
Emergency Care
In between appointments, keep an eye out for signs of illness or injury. Cats can be pretty secretive about this! Some of the things to look for include hiding, poor grooming, diarrhea, vomiting, respiratory issues, lethargy, fever, and withdrawal. You may also notice changes in Fluffy’s vocalizations, eating habits, or behavior. Call your vet immediately if you notice anything amiss.
Tips
No matter how old your furry buddy is, her appointments offer you a great chance to ask your vet about her changing care needs. Our feline pals have the same basic requirements—food, water, and clean litter—but their exact requirements will vary. For instance, longhaired cats will need more grooming than a shorthaired kitty. Kittens need lots of toys and playtime, while senior pets will be more interested in comfy beds.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Bourne, MA pet hospital, we’re here to help!
