Have we seen your cat lately?

As a Fear Free Certified Practice, at Carriage Crossing Animal Hospital we offer low-stress visits that help our cat patients visit regularly so that they can stay healthy. We may see your dog all the time but have we seen your cat lately? The purpose of ‘Bring your cat to the vet day’ is to remind us of the importance of preventative health care for all cats. 

Compared to dogs, cats can be very independent pets. Your cat gives you cuddles, fills you with joy, and is a valued and important companion. They may not be very good at asking for help though. This is why it is a common misconception that cats, especially indoor cats, do not require regular veterinary visits. Here are six important ways Dr. Ashby has seen regular visits help our cat patients.

 

  1. Preventative Care

Just like humans, cats benefit greatly from routine check-ups. Cats cannot speak up to alert us to the onset of a new problem, so it is important to allow us to detect and address potential issues before they escalate. Frequent vet visits starting from when they are a kitten also help cats learn to enjoy these visits filled with treats and chin rubs.

 

  1. Early Disease Detection

Cats are masters at hiding signs of illness, making it challenging for us to recognize when something is wrong. Regular veterinary visits provide an opportunity for thorough examinations, which can unveil underlying health issues that may not be immediately apparent. Detecting diseases early greatly increases the likelihood of successful treatment, potentially saving your cat from unnecessary suffering. 

 

  1. Vaccinations and Parasite Control

We protect humans as well as cats, with regular fecal parasite testing, and vaccination with our safe and effective Purevax vaccines. Did you know Rabies vaccination is required, even for indoor cats, by law in Ontario? Talk to us so that we understand your cat’s lifestyle, and can help protect them against the risks of infectious diseases that can invade even the most secure indoor space.

 

  1. Dental Health

Oral health is often overlooked, but it’s a crucial aspect of your cat’s overall well-being. Dental diseases, such as gum disease and tooth decay, can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even more severe health problems if left untreated. Regular veterinary visits allow for dental examinations and cleanings, maintaining optimal oral health for your feline companion. We can help you train your cat to enjoy toothbrushing and supply products to make dental home care enjoyable for everyone.

 

  1. Dietary and Nutritional Guidance

Proper nutrition is essential for your cat’s overall health. Each cat has unique dietary requirements based on age, activity level, and any existing health conditions. Obesity in young cats and weight loss in older cats are common cases we treat with nutritional advice but others include gastrointestinal disease, arthritis, and skin disease. Just as a doctor can save your life by recommending you decrease the cholesterol in your diet, we can recommend small changes to help keep your cat out of the emergency clinic.

 

  1. Behavior and Mental Health: 

Cats are easily stressed by environments that are too chaotic, or too boring. Enrichment ranging from a view out the window to leash walks and food toys plays a large role in maintaining the mental and physical health of cats. Frequent vet visits allow us to help prevent stress that harms your cat’s health. If behavioural changes do develop, our hospital can identify potential health or psychological factors and intervene early to help improve your cat’s overall mental well-being and enhance the bond between you and your feline companion. 

Although our cats stretch out in a sunbeam at home and seem to have no concerns, problems are often developing that are best caught early. To safeguard your cat’s long-term health and happiness, prioritize routine check-ups, preventative care, and early detection to maintain your cat’s well-being. By taking proactive steps, you can provide your feline friend with the love, care, and attention they deserve. At Carriage Crossing Animal Hospital, we want to be your trusted partner in ensuring your cat leads a healthy and fulfilling life. Start preparing for your cat’s visit using this great advice from Fear Free Happy Homes. Then please contact us to catch up on your cat’s regular veterinary visits and give your cat the best chance to thrive!