The start of a new year is a popular time for people to set out goals and resolutions for the year ahead, often involving health and wellness. While you’re at it, it’s a great time to ensure your cat is happy and healthy, too.  After all, we want them to be with us for as long as purrrrrsible! Even if your cat is young and stays indoors, yearly vet checkups are important for preventative healthcare – your kitty will thank you in the long run! Here are some of the essentials your vet will cover during your cat’s appointment.   

Vaccinations   

Vaccinations help safe-guard your cat from common infections so they can live longer, healthier lives. Your vet will administer your cat’s F3 vaccine, which reduces the risk and severity of symptoms of Feline panleukopenia, Feline herpesvirus, and Feline calicivirus. Even if your cat is kept indoors, this core vaccination is essential as viruses can travel home with us on our clothing and shoes. You will also be able to discuss whether your cat needs additional vaccinations. In Australia, these are vaccines against Chlamydophila felis, Feline Leukemia Virus, and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). These are mainly administered to cats who have outdoor access that isn’t enclosed.   

Dental health  

 Just like we do, all cats will eventually need a dental scale and polish to prevent dental disease and maintain dental health. Cats can get a variety of dental problems, such as build-up of tartar, fractured teeth, or gum disease that can lead to infection and subsequent tooth loss and pain. Luckily, your vet is also a kitty dentist who can check your cat’s pearly whites. Dental disease can be painful for your kitty (and make for an expensive vet bill) if left unnoticed and untreated. Your vet will also be able to discuss ways you can optimise your cat’s dental health at home, like with dental treats or kibble, teeth brushing (for super chill cats!), and water additives. 

General health checkup  

Your vet will weigh your cat, take their temperature, check their vitals, and answer any questions you may have. They can also administer flea and worming preventatives and teach you how to more easily give these to your cat if this is something you struggle to do at home. For cats over 8 years old, vet checkups every six months are recommended instead of once a year. This is because middle-aged and senior cats are more at-risk of developing health problems as they age. Comprehensive testing through bloodwork – such as liver, kidney, and thyroid function – is important to flag any indicators of underlying disease or health problems.  

Tips to make vet visits easier  

 Sometimes, just getting to the vet in the first place can be the hard part! If you don’t have access to a vehicle, ‘Uber Pet’ is an option to consider – or there are vets that do home visits. The latter may also be a great choice if you have a particularly scared and anxious kitty. Your vet may also be able to prescribe medication you can give your cat before their appointment to make the experience easier on them… and on you!   

It’s best to start vet visits from when your cat is a kitten, building a relationship with your vet and getting your cat used to the process. However, if you have an adult cat who isn’t used to regular vet visits or a cat that has never taken kindly to their carrier, you can slowly but surely train them so that it can become a more positive experience.   

For those who speak languages other than English, it may be a frustrating experience trying to find a veterinary practice where a staff member can speak to you in your preferred language. Cat Protection has compiled a list of vet practices who have advised that a staff member can assist customers in community languages other than English, please contact the individual vet practice to confirm their team member’s availability before booking in.  

Consistency is key 

We strongly recommend that all cat owners develop a good relationship with a local vet; staying with the same vet or vet clinic will ensure continuity of care for your cat. A good relationship with a regular vet means your cat’s medical history is well documented, providing vital information as your cat ages or if they become ill. Your vet will keep all of your cat’s records on file, so if you change vets make sure to let them know who to send this info across to.    

Remember, vet services may also be needed in addition to your cat’s six-monthly or yearly visits. If your cat exhibits any concerning health or behaviour changes, your vet is there to help and immediate vet care may be required. It’s also important to know your local emergency vet in case your cat becomes ill out of hours. If you ever have a pet-sitter, make sure you provide them with the details of the vet you use and an emergency vet nearby just in case your cat falls unwell while you’re away.  

For general advice on cat care and everything feline, call the Cat Protection Society of NSW on 02 9519 7201 or visit catprotection.org.au 

 Images: Supplied

This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Cat Protection Society

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