Health Concerns for Cats: Questions and Answers

Cats make excellent pets and can be a fantastic addition to any family. If you own a cat, however, it is important that you educate yourself about your feline companion’s health and ensure that you are doing everything possible to keep your cat safe. Cats, like humans, need daily medical attention and are susceptible to illness. This means that you can learn how to care for your cat and become familiar with the signs and symptoms of certain common issues so that you can have the best possible care for your cat. Here are some animal health questions and answers to get you started on being a healthy cat owner.

#1 Is it necessary to declaw my cat?

This is a common question among new cat owners, especially when they see their cat tearing into the sides of furniture for a good scratch. In general, this is not a decision to be taken lightly. Declaw is an amputation of the last part of the toe, which causes a great deal of pain. To prevent scratching activity and, as a result, the treatment, most veterinarians would recommend using scratching posts and engaging in as much play with the cat as possible. . When provided an option, cats are less likely to develop the desire to scratch furniture or other valuable surfaces, particularly if introduced at a young age.

If all else fails and declawing or euthanasia is the only option, seek out a veterinarian who is proactive and diligent about peri-operative and post-operative pain control. If you can locate a veterinarian who declaws with a cutting laser, the post-op recovery will be less painful and the healing time will be quicker.

2. Should I allow my cat to live both inside and outside?

Although each family must make their own decision, there are many risks involved with allowing your pet to be an outdoor cat. Communication with infected animals can spread diseases like FIV, and your cat may become prey for coyotes or other animals looking to hurt it. Keeping your cat at home can be a much better option for ensuring his or her safety.

3. Do I need to vaccinate my cat?

Rabies, feline leukemia, herpes virus, calicivirus, and panleukomenia [herpes, calici, and panleukopenia are usually packaged in one vaccine] are all diseases that cats should be protected against. While a commercial FIV [feline immunodeficiency virus] is viable, the veterinary community has largely rejected it as ineffective. Only a licensed veterinarian can customize and administer vaccination schedules and vaccines.

4. What is causing my cat to cough up hairballs?

As part of his or her grooming routine, your cat licks himself. This can result in your cat coughing up hairballs or throwing up hairballs in some situations. In some situations, getting your cat’s fur brushed on a regular basis (especially if it’s matted or knotted) and feeding your cat food formulated to deal with hairballs will help to solve the issue.

5. What’s the deal with my cat spraying urine?

Cats label their territories by spraying urine. Although this behavior is common, particularly in households with multiple cats, it should not be encouraged. Reduce or remove tension in your cat’s area, and make sure to thoroughly clean up any marking sprays to prevent potential spraying. When washing up urine, avoid using ammonia-based items because the ammonia may have a similar odor to urine and cause your cat to mark again.