Did You Know February is National Cat Health Month?
February is a short, but feisty month! Giving cats their due is what we’re all about. Here are some tips to help you focus on your feline’s needs:
- Schedule a date with your vet if your cat is due for an annual or bi-annual exam.
- Re-evaluate your cat’s diet and exercise.
- Make sure their environment in enriched to keep them happy and occupied!
- Brush up on their dental health.
- Make sure they are current on their vaccinations.
- Don’t forget to give them their parasite prevention medication on time.
- Make time for more snuggles 😉
While we know February is National Cat Health Month, it is good to keep in mind these things to keep your feline healthy all year long:
Prevent obesity
Obesity in cats can lead to other health issues including diabetes. If you’re uncertain as to whether your cat is at his or her ideal weight, ask your veterinarian. If your vet says your cat is on the chunky side and needs to lose a bit of weight, ask him for advice on what foods to feed, how much and how often.
Keep your kitty active
To keep your cat at her ideal weight, keep her active. Cats love to play and it’s a great way to bond. You can invest in cat toys or make your own if you’re crafty. An easy cat toy to DIY is to get some feathers and some elastic string and a longish pole. Tie or glue the string to the feathers. Tie or glue the string to the pole and viola — you have a fun toy to use to play with your kitty. Some cats love to chase a piece of balled up paper — quick, easy and likely free! If your cats love to run and jump and case a laser pointer, entertain them with that. (Our kitty Oliver also loves to play with catnip mouse toys!)
Cuddle your kitties
This one is pretty easy. It’s a myth that cats are solitary creatures and don’t crave interaction with their humans. Cats love a good cuddle. Spend time on the couch with them, snuggling up. Pet them. Rub their bellies. Stroke them between the ears. Enjoy their purring – all year long – not just during February is National Cat Health Month.
Keep their teeth healthy
Dental health is not just for dogs. Ask your veterinarian what you can feed to keep your cat’s teeth clean. Your veterinarian may recommend occasional teeth cleaning — your pet will be sedated for this procedure. If teeth aren’t properly cared for your cat will potentially lose his teeth, will have trouble eating and an infected tooth/teeth can lead to other health issues.
Get your cat vaccinated
Or have titer tests to see if vaccinations are necessary. Even indoor cats need to be vaccinated against disease.
Keep your kitty safe from indoor toxins
There are myriad plants that are harmful to your cat’s health. Research them and make certain you don’t have any toxic plants where your cat can come in contact with them. We know of one kitty that made an emergency trip to the vet because it decided (out of the blue!) to chew on a toxic plant. After a charcoal treatment, the kitty was better, and the owners much relieved. Remove the temptation to prevent the problem.
Celebrating your kitty for February is National Cat Health Month is fun and the tips we have shared can keep your purrfriend happy and healthy for years to come! Call us with questions or for an appointment at 970-587-5140.
You may enjoy these related articles Obesity in Cats is a Real Thing and Choosing and Caring for Your New Cat