Introduction
How often do you take your cat to the veterinarian? Remember that, even if your cat does not appear to be sick, preventative care is important.
Between visits to your cat's veterinarian, here are some ways to keep your cat healthy.
Groom your cat regularly
Whether your cat has short or long fur, he will benefit greatly from regular brushing or combing. This helps remove the dead hair from his coat so he doesn't ingest it while self-grooming. It also gives you the chance to notice any changes to his body. Irregularities such as lumps, bumps or sore spots can then be investigated right away by your vet.
Provide fresh water daily
Clean, fresh water is essential for your cat's good health. If your cat doesn't seem to drink from a bowl, consider providing her with a tall glass (some cats don't like to bend down to drink) or a cat fountain. Be sure to replenish the water with a fresh supply every day.
Make sure you have enough litter boxes
A general rule of thumb for litter boxes is one for each cat plus one more. So if you have 2 cats, you should have 3 litter boxes. To encourage good litter box habits, keep the litter boxes clean. This may mean scooping more than once per day. Regular cleaning will also help you notice any changes in your cat's urine or stool, which could indicate a health issue.
Notice if your cat starts urinating outside its litter box
Sometimes a cat will urinate outside his litter box if the box is dirty. But before you blame the accident on the state of the litter box or your cat's naughty behavior, schedule a visit to the veterinarian. A change in litter box habits sometimes means that a cat has a urinary tract infection or other medical issue.
Train your cat to use a scratching post
Not only will this help prevent damage to your furniture, it will help your cat stretch her muscles and keep her claws in top condition. Regular scratching on an appropriate surface such as carpet, rope, or cardboard helps remove the old layers from your cat's claws.
Use a cat carrier in the car
Does your cat need to visit the vet? Or are you moving to a new home? Make sure you transport your cat in an appropriate carrier designed for pets. Allowing your cat to roam freely in the car can distract you from driving safely, which can lead to accidents that may harm both you and your cat.
Keep your cat's teeth clean
Like humans, cats can develop tartar on their teeth, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. The bacteria that collects on your cat's teeth also can enter the bloodstream, contributing to other feline diseases. Unlike humans however, cats can't brush their teeth. And many cats won't let their owners brush their teeth for them. To keep your cat's teeth in top condition, schedule a cleaning with your veterinarian at least once every year.
Choose a cat-friendly vet
It seems to go without saying that cats are not smaller versions of dogs, and therefore, cats have different veterinary requirements than dogs do. A veterinarian specializing in feline health and anatomy can be a valuable ally in keeping your cat in her best possible health.
Schedule regular veterinary visits
Annual visits give the vet a chance to catch any potential feline diseases in their early stages, administer vaccines, give you advice, and clean the cat's teeth. Your vet can also tell you if your cat is at a healthy weight.
Spay or neuter your cat
Reproductive diseases can affect cats of both genders, and at any age. Spaying prevents uterine infections, ovarian cancers and breast tumors in female cats, while neutering prevents testicular cancer and some prostate problems in males. The surgeries also reduce a male cat's urge to roam and if done soon enough in his life, may eliminate his urge to spray to mark territory. The best benefit? Your cat won't contribute to the pet overpopulation problem.