Caring For Your Cat

So when do you take your cat to see the veterinarian? The
biggest mistake that happens when getting a new cat is not
taking it to a veterinarian for a routine checkup. There are
some people who think that you only have to take a cat to the
veterinarian when it is sick or hurt. This is one of the biggest
misconceptions of owning a cat. There is much more to caring
for your cat besides just food and water.

Did you know that there are a lot of diseases that can be
prevented from a simple booster shot? The checkup and
vaccinations should start shortly after they are born. Your
veterinarian will know what vaccinations to give your cat or
kitten and at what age and time. Not every cat will need to get
the same vaccinations; it depends on whether you keep them
indoors, outdoors, or both. Another factor is whether you have
other cats or animals in the house. Let your veterinarian know
what environment your cat lives in, it will give them the information
they need to choose the right vaccinations for your cat.

All of our cats are indoor cats, but we still take them for annual
checkups to get their booster shots. It gives me peace of mind
that my cats have a better chance of not contracting a disease.
They still can get a disease even after getting the booster shot,
but the chance is smaller than without the booster shot. Another
good reason to take your cat in for routine checks is that you may
not know that there is something wrong with your cat, but your
veterinarian is trained and will know if something could be potentially
wrong. And if you have been taking your cat to them for awhile,
they will have a history of your cat documented, and most will
know your cat and will recognize if something appears to be different
on that particular visit. You can also help them with their routine
examination by noting any changes that you may have observed
in your cat since the last visit. You may not think that it is unusual
or that there is not anything wrong with your cat, but it will help
in determining your cat’s overall health. Any changes in your cat
may not mean anything, but it is always good to keep your
veterinarian informed of changes as they can write it down for any 
future reference in case something does arise and needs attention.

There will still come times when you will need to visit the veterinarian
before it is time for the next scheduled checkup for boosters. There
are still sicknesses that the boosters do not prevent, so we take our
feline friend in for a special visit. There will also be other factors not
as threatening, unless ignored, that you will want to treat your cat for,
such as fleas. Our cats get treated for fleas when they need it. I didn’t
have to before, but we did bring a dog into the family and with him came
fleas. So we do treat all of them or fleas, and I get a recommended flea
treatment from my veterinarian.

It is very important for your cat’s health and well being that you make
regular appointments with the veterinarian to receive their booster shots
and an overall check. It will keep them healthy and happy, and they will
reward you with lots of love.