Cat Care: Health Issues

Owning a pet has special responsibilities. You need to feed and groom your pet as well as keep them safe from various diseases and accidents. This is what cat care and cat health is all about and by doing it correctly, your cat can live well over 10 years.

Vaccinations are one of the most effective means of fighting some disease. This also prevents the cat from becoming a carrier of the disease.  Some of the common vaccinations given to cats are for cat flu, feline leukemia or FeLV, Feline Infectious Enteritis or FIE and Feline Chlamydophilosis.

If your vet administers a vaccination, be aware that she could experience some side effects. She could become lethargic for a few days which usually resolves on it's own. Or she could have a more serious reaction with vomiting and diarrhea. In this case you should consult your vet who will probably treat the reaction. In rare cases, tumors can develop at the location of the injection. Vets will usually vary the injection site to minimize this possibility.

Cats can develop allergies as people do. They can be allergic to dust, pollen and other substances. If you notice your cat exhibiting symptoms, you should stop using any suspect products, keep her away from plants and make sure your house is clean.

Another problem to watch out for is fleas and ticks. If she scratches more often than usual you should check around the neck for any small black hopping specks using a special flea comb to look deeper into the fur. Also look for "flea dirt" (flea droppings).

Preventing or treating for fleas and ticks is accomplished by dabbing a small amount of liquid on to the back of their necks once a month. As for those that are already present, you can pick them out using a pair of tweezers or applying Vaseline over the affected area. Always wear rubber gloves when you are doing this so bacteria do not transfer to your fingers. Another option is to use a tick remover spray available from pet stores.

Unlike fleas and ticks that can be observed, intestinal worms reside in the digestive system. There are three types: roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. If left untreated,  the worms will deplete the cat's health and at times can be fatal. The best way to prevent worms in your cat is to give her worming tablets annually. But if they are already present, then you will need a prescribed medicine from your vet.

Cats claws can cause damage and injure people. You can minimize this from happening by providing a scratch pad to play with and trimming your cat's nails on a regular basis.

We know that curiosity killed the cat. You must manage your home to keep your cat safe from medicines and other toxins. Never feed her chocolate as that can be fatal.
 
Proper cat care is the most effective means of keeping your pet healthy. Studies have shown that cats that are kept indoors and well cared for by their owners live 5 times longer than those living on the street. Cherish your cat and care for her well.