Keep Your Cat Healthy
Cats may appear self-sufficient, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require the same amount of care and love as any other pet. To make sure your lovely feline remains contented and in good health, be certain you’re providing them with both mental stimulation and physical activity.
Mental health needs of cats
In addition to physical health, your cat’s mental wellbeing is essential for their overall well-being. When cats become bored or anxious, they are prone to conditions such as urinary issues and overgrooming, among other complications. You can help them stay healthy by providing toys and activities that stimulate their minds:
- Scratching —Cats have an inborn inclination to scratch, and it’s important for their nail care, stretching needs, and scent marking. To ensure your pet has the best chance of making healthy decisions about where to scratch, ensure you provide a wealth of different scratching posts throughout your home. Doing this allows them the opportunity to choose which post is most comfortable for their needs.
- Climbing — Cats feel safer when they are up high, and climbing towers and cat shelves can fulfill that need.
Physical health needs of cats
To ensure your feline’s well-being, prioritize preventive measures to stave off sickness and illness. Such practices include:
- Preventive care — Preventive care forms the cornerstone of your cat’s overall health and wellness and consists of vaccinations, parasite prevention, screening tests, and dental care.
- Diet — With 60% of the American feline population classified as overweight or obese, a healthy diet is critical to help your feline pal maintain an ideal body condition. Cats that are too heavy are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, urinary issues, diabetes, heart problems, and some cancers.
- Grooming — Although cats are typically fastidious groomers, they can use extra help. Brush your cat regularly, even if they are shorthaired. Clean their ears of debris if needed, and brush their teeth daily if possible. Heavy or longhaired cats often require a sanitary trim or regular washing to prevent urine and feces from accumulating.
Common health issues in cats
Without the proper medical attention to their physical and psychological needs, cats are more at risk of developing numerous health issues. Common health issues include:
- Obesity
- Dental disease
- Ear infections
- Skin allergies and infections
- Urinary tract disorders
- Respiratory tract infections
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
By providing regular wellness care for your feline friend, you can help prevent or minimize their risk for certain health conditions. Contact our team to schedule your cat’s next preventive care visit.