Like many cat owners, you love your pet very much, but how often should you take your cat to the vet? Even though cats are very popular and people take them in as friends, companions and even family members, these lovely animals often do not receive the veterinary care they need.
Why Owners Don’t Take Pet Cats for Checkups
There are two major reasons that cats are not taken to the vet regularly. One, people believe in the myth of “feline self-sufficiency.” To put it simply, people usually assume that cats can take good care of themselves and don’t need help from a vet. This myth is reinforced by the fact that cats don’t follow their owners around, are litterbox-trained very easily, always groom themselves and are very independent animals, which does indeed make them appear to be self-sufficient.
Secondly, owners are often unaware of a cat’s ability and the effort he or she will take to hide signs of illness, discomfort, injury and pain. When hurt or sick, cats will hide away rather than show they have a problem and owners may not realize their pet needs help.
Cats need annual checkups and the protection of vaccinations, and owners must be watchful for signs and symptoms of illnesses and injuries that require attention.
Regular Visits to the Vet Should be Scheduled
A cat who is sick or injured must be taken to a veterinarian, but regular visits should be scheduled even when your pet appears perfectly well. Here’s a quick guide for the frequency required:
- KittensBaby cats need to see their veterinarian every month until they are four months of age. Routine checkups are needed primarily so that he can receive necessary vaccinations. Afterwards, kittens should be brought in for neutering or spaying procedures, typically done around six months of age.The next visit should be at one year of age. If you have an outdoor cat, you may want to have an ID number inserted under the ear flap so that you will be contacted if he or she is ever lost.
- Adult CatsAn adult cat, even one that stays indoors, should have a routine checkup every six months or at least once a year, even if they appear to be in good shape. It is very important for the vet to evaluate your pet regularly so that treatment can start early if there are signs of illness or if there is a tooth or gum problem.
- Senior CatsWhen you have a cat that’s seven to ten years old, he or she is considered elderly, and it’s important to take them to the vet twice a year for checkups. Older cats are more prone to ailments compared to younger animals. Common geriatric problems include liver conditions, obesity and kidney problems, all of which should be carefully monitored by your vet.
Watch for these Signs and Symptoms that Signal Problems
In addition to regular checkups, it is also necessary to take your cat to a veterinarian in the event of an illness or injury. Cat owners must be extra vigilant because they tend to conceal weaknesses that would make them appear vulnerable to enemies in the wild. Be on the lookout for any of these signs:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Refusal to eat dry foods (teeth or gums may be hurting)
- Weakness
- Unusual vocalization
- Behavioral problems (scratching and hissing when touched; hiding)
- Urinating or defecating outside the litter box
Before you take your cat to a vet, it is a good idea to give him or her time to get used to his carrier so they won’t be nervous. Leave the door open and let them go in and out of it, and maybe feed him or her in there once or twice so they like it and no longer associate the carrier with something unpleasant. When you take him or her to the vet, have some toys and treats in the carrier so that they don’t mind the trip.
So, how often should you take your cat to the vet? Now you know the answer. Your little pet may not love vet visits, but you know you are protecting their life and health by taking them in regularly.
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