1- We recommend a physical exam and vaccines annually for all cats to detect health conditions early and prevent infectious diseases in your cat. Rabies vaccination is required in our region.
2- As ticks are active when temperatures are above 0 degrees Celsius, a good tick preventative product should be used all 12 months of the year in this area. Ask us about which product would be best. These products often also prevent fleas and heartworm.
3- It is always a good idea to deworm your cat annually – or every three months if he/she goes outdoors hunting. A fecal test can be done at any time to detect intestinal parasites.
4- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia (FeLV) are viruses are viruses that affect the immune system. They can be transmitted with biting and close contact to infected cats. We can test for these viruses before you bring new cats together in your home.
5- Early disease detection is crucial to help your pet live a long and healthy life. Blood screening allows us to evaluate your pet’s organ health. We recommend blood testing annually for pets over 7 years of age.
6- Urine testing is recommended to evaluate if your cat is at risk for urinary crystals and urinary tract infections.
7- Pets need oral care just like we do. Brushing with an enzymatic toothpaste (approved for dogs and cats) is the best preventative action for a healthy mouth. If you cannot brush then dental diets are available from your veterinarian that help prevent plaque and gingivitis. We offer routine tooth cleaning and dental assessment for dogs and cats to keep them healthy.
8- A well selected food is important for maintaining your cat’s health. Our pet health care team members would be happy to share some recommendations for your pets that could help address their weight, dental and urinary health.
9- We want to prevent your pet from being overweight. Obesity increases serious health risks.
10- Make sure your litterbox is cleaned regularly and is always easily accessible for your cat. The ideal number of litterboxes is the number of cats in the household plus one (i.e. 1 cat = 2 boxes)
We believe that medical insurance for your pet is an important part of caring for them. It can help you budget for unexpected illnesses and injuries that you otherwise may not be able to afford. There are many companies and options for coverage available, so we recommend that you carefully research which option is best for you.
To Protect the Health of Your Kitten
1- Most kittens have intestinal parasites (worms) and should be dewormed throughout their first six months and then regularly depending on their lifestyle.
2- Flea, tick, ear mite and heartworm treatment/prevention is recommended. As ticks are active when temperatures are above 0 degrees Celsius, a good tick preventative product should be used all 12 months of the year in this area. These products often also prevent fleas and heartworm. Ask us about which product would be best.
3- Vaccines are usually given to kittens at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age. Rabies vaccination is required. After the initial vaccine series, a yearly exam and vaccines are recommended.
4- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus/Feline Leukemia viruses affect the immune system of cats. A blood test is recommended for new kittens and new adult cats. We can identify infected cats as early as possible to minimize the risk of transmission of these viruses to other cats.
5- Spaying/neutering your cat is recommended at 6 months of age. Preanesthetic blood work is recommended to evaluate liver and kidney function before surgery.
6- A microchip helps identify your pet if he or she is lost or stolen. This can be done during an appointment or at the time of your pet’s spay and neuter, when they are sedated.
7- Daily oral care is recommended to maintain healthy on teeth and gums. Brushing daily with an enzymatic toothpaste formulated for cats is the best way to care for your cat’s oral health.
8- Ensure access to fresh water at all times! Good food is an investment toward your cat’s health. This is especially important for male cats as the right food helps maintain urinary health. Teach your kitten to eat measured meals at consistent times to control weight gain.
9- Obesity impacts every body system. Talk to us about the latest diets to control weight gain. Formulations that are also good for your cat’s urinary & dental health are available.
10- Make sure your litterbox is cleaned regularly and is always easily accessible. The ideal number of litterboxes is more than the number of cats in the household (2 cats = 3+ boxes)
We believe that medical insurance for your pet is an important part of caring for them. It can help you budget for unexpected illnesses and injuries that you otherwise may not be able to afford. There are many companies and options for coverage available, so we recommend that you carefully research which option is best for you.
