Cats 101: Basic Health & Care Tips
How often do you take your cat to the veterinarian? In observance of National Cat Health Month, we want to remind you that even if your cat does not appear to be sick, preventative care is important. Between visits to your cat's veterinarian, here are 10 ways to keep your cat healthy.
1. Groom your cat regularly
Whether your cat has short or long fur, they'll benefit greatly from regular brushing or combing. This helps remove the dead hair from their coat so they don't ingest it while self-grooming.
2. Provide fresh water daily
Clean, fresh water is essential for your cat's good health. If your cat doesn't seem to drink from a bowl, consider providing them with a tall glass (some cats don't like to bend down to drink) or a cat fountain. Be sure to replenish the water with a fresh supply every day.
3. Make sure you have enough litter boxes
A general rule of thumb for litter boxes is one for each cat plus one more. So if you have 2 cats, you should have 3 litter boxes. To encourage good litter box habits, keep the litter boxes clean. This may mean scooping more than once per day.
4. Notice if your cat starts urinating outside its litter box
Sometimes a cat will urinate outside their litter box if the box is dirty. But before you blame the accident on the state of the litter box or your cat's naughty behavior, schedule a visit to the veterinarian. A change in litter box habits sometimes means that a cat has a urinary tract infection or other medical issue.
5. Train your cat to use a scratching post
Not only will this help prevent damage to your furniture, it will help your cat stretch their muscles and keep their claws in top condition. Regular scratching on an appropriate surface such as carpet, sisal, or cardboard helps remove the old layers from your cat's claws.
6. Use a cat carrier in the car
Does your cat need to visit the vet? Or are you moving to a new home? Transport your cat in an appropriate carrier designed for pets. Allowing your cat to roam freely in the car can distract you from driving safely, which can lead to accidents that may harm both you and your cat.
7. Keep your cat's teeth clean
Like humans, cats can develop tartar on their teeth, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. The bacteria that collect on your cat's teeth also can enter their bloodstream, contributing to other feline diseases. To keep your cat's teeth in top condition, schedule a cleaning with your veterinarian at least once every year.
8. Choose a cat-friendly vet
It seems to go without saying that cats are not smaller versions of dogs. A veterinarian specializing in feline health and anatomy can be a valuable ally in keeping your cat in her best possible health.
9. Schedule regular veterinary visits
Annual visits give the vet a chance to catch any potential feline diseases in their early stages, administer vaccines, and clean the cat's teeth. Your vet can also tell you if your cat is at a healthy weight.
10. Spay or neuter your cat
Reproductive diseases can affect cats of both genders, both male and female. The surgeries also reduce a male cat's urge to roam and if done soon enough in his life, may eliminate his urge to spray to mark territory. The best benefit? Your cat won't contribute to the pet overpopulation situation.
Article Credit: https://www.petsafe.net/learn/cats-101-basic-health-care-tips-to-keep-your-cat-healthy#
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