The Importance of Taking Your Cat to the Vet

August 22, 2021 is National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day, and serves as a great reminder that cats benefit from routine examinations. Because cats age much faster than humans (and they mask symptoms), it’s essential to stay in front of any developing health conditions. While we know it’s not always easy to convince a cat to enter their travel crate, routine appointments contribute to a higher quality of life. 

Startling Stats

A kitten typically receives their necessary vaccinations and parasite prevention medication before their first birthday. They may also get microchipped and spayed or neutered by then, too. Unfortunately, many cats don’t receive routine preventive veterinary care after that. 

To achieve optimal feline health, cats should be seen once a year to maintain our approach to disease prevention. Around age seven, routine visits should increase to twice annually. 

Every stage of your cat’s life is unique and has its own set of age-specific needs. As they age, nutrition/diet may need adjusting, or supplementation could be useful. The needs of a senior cat vary drastically from those of a younger kitten. 

I’m Fine, You’re Fine

When it comes to showing the world how they’re feeling, it can be an extreme guessing game. An aging cat may not show outward signs of osteoarthritis or dental pain, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t experiencing major discomfort.

We can help you find the right products that support whatever they’re experiencing, improving their day-to-day well-being. Whether it’s a prescription diet or a dental cleaning, we’ve got the big picture in mind.

Speaking of Dental Pain…

The majority of older cats have periodontal disease. This can translate into inappetance, trouble chewing, dropping food, bleeding gums, bad breath, and acute pain. Weekly brushing at home can definitely help reduce plaque and tartar build up. Professional dental cleanings are vital to a cat’s overall health, as well. Oral bacteria can lead to serious health problems if not treated promptly. 

What’s Your Weight?

Another reason to take your cat to the vet on a routine basis is to make sure they are at a healthy weight. We know how cats work their owners into giving them more treats…It makes us feel good to indulge them, but even a couple extra pounds on a cat’s frame can be incredibly damaging to their body’s systems (not to mention their joints). 

Please, Bring Your Cat to the Vet

Many cats do not receive the annual or semi-annual care that they need. This can be explained by a cat’s refusal to travel or tolerate exams. Many cat owners think that they’re doing their cats a favor by not making them go to the vet, but the opposite is true.

Bring your cat to the vet to prevent problems. We encourage all pet owners to consider the importance of preventive care, and to train their cat to accept their crate as a relaxing place of refuge. 

Please call us at (913) 681‑2818 with any questions or concerns. Our team looks forward to seeing you and your cat soon!