subject: Basic Cat Health Care Advice for New Owners [print this page] Basic Cat Health Care Advice for New Owners
Whether you are about to welcome a brand new kitten or adopted adult cat into your home, there are some important health care responsibilities that you will need to bear in mind. Many people choose to own a cat, because they believe that a cat is pretty self-sufficient. While this is true to a point, it is crucial that owners offer their cats the basic health care that is essential to overall well being. The following advice is intended for those new to pet ownership.
Make Sure you Have a Safe Cat Carrier
When purchasing your cat's new equipment, it is wise to add a cat carrier to the list. Cat carriers can be purchased from any good pet store. However, it is advisable to select one that is comfortable, safe and secure for your cat. This travel carrier will be used for trips to the vet or road trips and will ensure that both you and your cat arrive at your destination safely.
Take Some Time to Find a Really Great Vet
Of course, most pet owners will simply choose their local vet. However, your nearest vets' office may not be the best. For example, if your local vet is overcrowded, he, or she, is unlikely to have the luxury of time, which means your cat may not receive the best possible care.
Obviously, other things to think about include the cleanliness and hygiene of a veterinary office and whether dogs are kept on leashes in the waiting room. If you do not know where to start, you might like to ask friend, co-workers or relative which vet they use and get some feedback.
Remember, finding a vet is not something you want to leave until you are in dire need of one. So make sure that you do the necessary research early, preferably before you even acquire your new cat.
Make Sure Your Cat is Getting His/Her Annual Check Ups
With our own health, it is very easy to get a little lax about check ups. However, your cat is depending on you, so it is imperative that you approach this responsibly. All cats should have at least on check up per year. Even if your cat seems perfectly healthy, it is advisable to visit the vet, because often cat illnesses are not evident until the latter stages. Of course, if left too late, most conditions are more difficult to cure or, in some cases, impossible.
Moreover, don't think that because your cat stays indoors, he, or she, will never pick up any diseases. You and any visitors to your home are carrying germs into the house, so your cats can easily pick things up this way.
Don't Forget Vaccinations
Similarly, it is important that your cat remains up-to-date with all shots and vaccinations. Bear in mind that many vaccinations need annual boosters, so do not make the mistake of thinking one course of shots is all he, or she, needs.
When taking your cat for shots, it is a good idea to ask the vet about potential side effects. Many vaccinations will not affect a cat's behavior at all, but some will. Therefore, it is advisable to know what to expect.
Keep an Eye on Your Cat's Behavior
Yes, cats are independent souls, but it is important that you keep a regular watch of their behavior and habits. As mentioned above, cats are excellent at masking illnesses, so a change of behavior that seems innocuous could, in fact, be indicative of a health concern. Common things to look out for include, itching, change in eating or drinking habits and sleeping patterns. If you notice these or any other alterations in your cat, then it is advisable to consult your vet.
Of course, there are many other health care responsibilities for cat owners. So, remember owning a pet is a lot of fun, but it can be a labour of love, too.
