Taking Your Cat to the Vet

August 22nd is Take Your Cat To The Vet Day. Of course, we aren’t suggesting that all of our feline patients visit us on that specific day. Our waiting room would be overflowing with kitties, which would be adorable but chaotic! However, it is important to keep up with Fluffy’s veterinary care needs. Here, a Pickerington, OH vet discusses taking your kitty to the vet.

Kittens

We love watching baby cats grow into happy, healthy adults! When your kitty is just a tiny ball of fur, she’ll need to come in a few times for her initial vaccinations and exams. Little Fluffy should also be microchipped, spayed or neutered while she is still a kitten. You’ll also need to get your furry buddy started out on parasite control.

Adult Furballs

Once Fluffy is fully grown, she may only need to come in once or twice a year, for wellness care. Keeping up with your cat’s vaccines, parasite control products, and exams is very important! Of course, some of our feline pals may need to visit us more often than others. For instance, kitties that go outside are more exposed to parasites, and also more likely to get hurt, so they may need more frequent appointments than indoor furballs. Pets with medical issues will also need to see us a few times a year. Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.

Senior Kitties

As your feline buddy ages, you’ll want to keep a close eye on her health. Fluffy may develop specific issues, such as arthritis, diabetes, or hearing or vision loss. Regular exams will increase the chances of these things being caught—and therefore treated–early. It’s also important to communicate with your vet regularly about relevant treatment options and your kitty’s changing care needs.

Emergency Visits

Cats can be pretty secretive about letting on that they don’t feel well, so it’s important to keep a close eye out for warning signs. Some common ones are hiding, poor grooming, litterbox issues, changes in thirst and appetite, and fever. Vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues, lethargy, trembling, and uncharacteristic behavior or vocalizations are also red flags. Call your vet right away if you notice any of these symptoms. Is your furry pal due for vaccinations, parasite control, or an exam? Please reach out to us, your Pickerington, OH vet clinic, anytime. We are dedicated to offering great care!