Did you know that August 22nd is Take Your Cat To The Vet Day? (It’s also National Tooth Fairy Day, but we’ll leave that one to the dentists.) We know, coming to visit us isn’t really very high on the list of Fluffy’s favorite things to do. Your feline friend would probably prefer to spend her day napping, sunbathing, or batting her favorite toy under the couch. However, proper veterinary care is very important! Read on as a Tipp City, OH veterinarian discusses taking your cat to the vet.
Got a kitten? Little Fluffy will need to visit the vet a few times during that crucial first year. In addition to her initial exams and vaccines, she will need a microchip and spay/neuter surgery. You’ll also need to get your tiny furball started on parasite control. When your pet reaches adulthood, she may only need annual appointments, for exams, parasite control, and additional vaccines. Some kitties, such as outdoor cats, may need more frequent visits. When your cat reaches her golden years, she’ll need to come in more often, so your vet can monitor her health. Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule.
In between visits, watch Fluffy closely for any potential signs of illness. Some common ones include hiding; poor grooming; weight loss; litterbox issues; grumpiness; and changes in appetite, vocalizations, or behavior. Cats often try to hide their symptoms, so Fluffy could be very sick before you notice anything amiss. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these warning signs.
Visiting the vet can be stressful for kitties. Your furball may be on edge as soon as she spots her carrier. Then there’s the car ride, which is definitely not one of Fluffy’s favorite things. The vet’s office can also be a bit overwhelming. After all, there are a lot of strange smells, including the scents of sick and uneasy animals. We do everything we can to make visits pleasant as possible for our feline friends. There are a few things you can do as well. Keep the carrier out between visits, and put toys and bedding in it. Cat calming products, such as sprays, can also help.
Is your cat due for a veterinary exam? Contact us! As your Tipp City, OH animal clinic, we are here to help