As a pet parent, there are multiple things, which you need to keep in the priority section.
Like selecting the best food, litter boxes, biodegradable litter, food bowls, toys, etc. Likewise, taking her to the veterinary clinic also comes under the priority section.
However, it has been observed that the majority of pet parents don’t follow these regular check-up tactics. So, we are here to help you out, and give you reminders about your kitty’s regular health check-ups.
Keep reading to find out how often you take your kitty to a vet and the importance of a regular health care routine.
How Often Should Cats Be Taken to the Vet?
Well, it is very important that your feline pal should get proper veterinary care, which includes a prescribed healthy diet, vaccine doses, parasite prevention, inner body cell functions, etc. All these need to be monitored on a regular basis to avoid any future health consequences.[1]
Let’s find out more in detail.
Kittens
Your little feline pal will need to visit a vet clinic more often, no particular period is allotted for them. This is because they are at a developing age, and need to be vaccinated with the necessary vaccine dose, which should be injected on a regular periodic basis.
So yeah, it can be said that within the first year of her life, she will be more at the vet’s clinic for proper observation and treatment. As she needs to be injected with all the dozes for the proper function of the body.
Adult Cats
Well, adult cats need more vet visits as compared to kittens, normally it has been observed that people prefer once a year vet visit for their kitty.
But this is not correct, as your kitty grows she will diagnose many hormonal changes, and their dieting habits will also change. So during this period, it is likely that they will encounter behavior changes also.
It is suggested to visit the clinic on a quarterly basis, and if you observe any behavior changes, which cannot be controlled at home then the vet will guide you in a better way.
Senior Cats
As soon as your kitty reaches the stage of senior level, it’s better to switch your regular check-ups from yearly to quarterly or six-month basis.
This is because their body needs more closure treatment by this age, and they are not going to tell you about their problems on their own, so you have to keep a close eye on their health.
If observe any changes immediately report it to the vet because during this age encountering severe underlying health issues is common in felines. Although proper diet and nutrients are given to her still a vet check-up is a good decision.
Why Regular Check-UPS Are Important for Your Kitty?
Cats are not able to express their pain, health issues, mood swings, etc. As a pet parent, it’s your responsibility to look after her health and provide her comfortable environment. Taking her to the vet’s clinic is one of the important to-do work, which should be added to her care list.
This is because the vet will be able to examine their full body, by conducting some tests, which will help them to detect any issues. It includes dental, skin, body function, etc.
Plus, routine diagnosis of your kitty is important to keep a record of her health, and regular check-ups will help them to detect an issue faster by referring past records so that your kitty’s treatment can be started on time.
It will also help you to prevent your kitty’s coat infected by fleas, ticks, bacteria, pests, and heartworm. This is because they will recommend you for grooming sessions, which will help to keep her skin and coat healthy.
Signs Your Cat Needs to Visit a Vet!
According to PetMD, “Cats like daily routines and do not like to deviate from their regular day-to-day schedules. Any change in their typical activities and behavior warrants a trip to the vet.“
With time pet parents start knowing their kitty’s behavior, if you notice any unusual body language in your kitty, related to her health. In such a case, it is recommended to book an appointment and visit a vet for peace of mind and get clarity about her health.
So, if you notice the following sign in your kitty, seek a vet.
- Skipping their meal
- Sleeping in odd hours
- Breathing issue
- Hiding from beloved ones
- Change in their toiletry habits
- Coughing, sneezing, running nose
All these can be signs of underlying health issues or can be due to stress also, but it is advisable to seek vet advice to avoid future health complications.
FAQs
Do cats need to see a vet every year?
Yes, even for healthy cats vet check-up is necessary, especially when your feline has reached a mature life stage. During this period vet check-up once a year is recommended just to avoid any disease, and to maintain her health to boost her immune system for the proper functioning of her body.
What vaccines do indoor cats need?
Cats generally require feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus-1, and feline calicivirus. These core vaccines are enough for felines, whether be it indoor or outdoor cats. works as a shield for their body and protect them from severe diseases.
Well, It’s a Wrap!
Confidently, we were able to bring you proper guidance related to your kitty’s visit to the vet.
It’s not necessary that when your feline pal is facing a major illness then only you will seek a vet’s help or else not. For the better health of your kitty, it is suggested to take her for regular check-ups and get her treatment on time. This will help in preventing encountering any severe underlying health issues in the future.
The regular visit will help your vet also to know your feline pal more closely, and with time they will easily be able to identify the core cause of the illness. Plus, can start their treatment without wasting time.
References:
- Makawey, A., Iben, C., & Palme, R. (2020). Cats at the vet: The effect of alpha-s1 casozepin. Animals, 10(11), 2047.