Veterinary Care
What does the vet need to do before I bring my cat home?
Cats should be blood tested for Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus before they are put in a house with other negative cats. A fecal test and necessary dewormings should be done for intestinal parasites. Ear mite treatment may also be needed.
How often should I take my adult cat to the Vet?
All cats should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year, regardless of whether or not they need vaccines. Exams are critical for all cats at least annually. Remember, cats instinctively hide symptoms of illness in order to avoid predators.
Does my cat need vaccinations?
Adult cats should have a Rabies virus vaccine every three years because it is required by law. An FVRCP vaccine protects against 3 other viruses that are highly contagious between cats. If your cat is around any other cats, they should have this vaccine every 3 years as well.
Does my cat need routine parasite tests?
Cats should be tested for parasites in their stools even if they live indoors and should receive routine flea preventative medication, especially if you have other pets.
Does my cat need routine bloodwork?
Getting blood values checked annually is a good idea.
How often does my cat need professional teeth cleaning?
Cats don’t brush or floss on their own. Need cleanings regularly, every year to 3 years in most cases.
Should I have my cat spayed/neutered and/or declawed?
Veterinarians often recommend neutering and declawing at the same time. All cats should be spayed/neutered to prevent accidental reproduction, roaming, aggression, marking, and even reproductive cancers. Declawing, however, can lead to many behavioral and even physical problems and should be avoided at all costs.
Should my pet be microchipped?
Yes!
Does my cat need pet insurance?
Yes!
How do I know if my cat is sick?
Watch for anything out of the ordinary--you know your cat! Cats do 5 primary things: eat/drink, urinate/defecate, sleep, play, and groom themselves. If there are any changes in the normal pattern, take your cat to the veterinarian!
- Signs of Emergencies
- Seizures, collapse, fainting, straining to urinate or defecate, eye injuries, swelling of the face, poisonous bites or bites from other animals, open/bleeding wounds, feeling too hot or too cold, breathing problems
- Signs of Illness
- Losing weight, changes in appetite, drinking more or less, urinating more or less, hair loss, behavior changes