Kitties are more than furry little roommates that curl up on our laps and entertain us with their silly antics: they’re friends, companions, and unofficial family members. Fluffy isn’t hard to care for, but she does need lots of TLC. Making sure your feline friend sees the vet regularly is a big part of any good kitty care regimen. Read on as a Roanoke, VA vet discusses your cat’s veterinary care needs.
Kittens
When Fluffy is still a baby, she’ll need to visit us a few times. Your tiny furball will need her initial vaccinations, as well as a thorough exam. Parasite control is also on the agenda, as are microchipping and spay/neuter surgery. (Note: we also like to do purr checks by providing lots of cuddles and ear scritches.) For more guidance on nurturing your new feline friend, check out our article filled with ‘Kitten Care Tips’.
Adult Cats
Once Fluffy is fully grown, she may only need to come in once a year, for wellness care. During this stage, you’ll need to stay current with your kitty’s exams, vaccinations, and parasite control. Regular dental exams are also important. Of course, no matter how old your cat is, it’s good to get some recommendations on her diet and care needs. To ensure Fluffy stays in top health throughout her adult years, learn more about our ‘Wellness & Vaccinations’ services tailored for your cat’s needs.
Seniors
As your pet ages, she’ll need to come in more often. Most vets recommend that senior cats come in twice a year, though you’ll want to get specific recommendations from Fluffy’s doctor. Kitties in their golden years often develop health issues. Your feline pal may experience a loss of hearing and vision. Or, she could develop bone/joint problems, such as arthritis. There are now many options for treating medical problems, and keeping older furballs happy and purring. Ask your vet for more information.
Emergency Visits
In between appointments, keep an eye on Fluffy, and watch for potential signs of illness. Cats are often quite secretive about letting on that they don’t feel well, so it can be easy to miss the early warning signs of sickness. Some of the things to look for include hiding; poor grooming; changes in food or water consumption; sudden weight gain or loss; respiratory issues; vomiting (aside from the occasional hairball); diarrhea; litterbox woes; crankiness; lethargy; and unusual behavior or vocalizations. Call your vet immediately if you see any of these symptoms.
Please contact us, your Roanoke, VA vet clinic, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re dedicated to keeping kitties healthy and purring!
