February is National Cat Health Month, serving as a reminder for cat owners to prioritize their feline friends’ health needs to keep them healthy and happy all year long.
10 Ways To Care For Your Cat’s Health 📋
Schedule Regular Vet Visits: Cats require annual check-ups. It is recommended that cats over 7 years old see a veterinarian twice a year to help catch any health issues early.
Provide a Nutritious Diet: A well-balanced diet is vital for maintaining your cat’s health. Ensure their diet includes high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. It is recommended that cats eat mostly canned food, as this provides a healthier balance of carbohydrates and moisture compared to dry food.
Keep Your Cat Hydrated: Water is essential for your cat’s health, and dehydration can lead to urinary tract and/or kidney problems. Provide fresh, clean water, keep their bowls clean, and encourage drinking by trying cat water fountains.
Regular Exercise: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and keeps your cat active. Encourage playtime, provide toys and scratching posts, and allow access to climbing structures for fun activity.
Groom Regularly: Grooming helps to prevent hairballs, matting, and skin infections. Good grooming practices include regularly brushing their coat, trimming their nails, and cleaning their teeth. This interaction also helps your cat feel more enriched and happier overall.
Keep Litter Boxes Clean: Regularly cleaning the litter box helps prevent urinary tract issues and promotes good hygiene. Scoop the litter 1–2 times per day and thoroughly scrub the box at least once a month.
Prevent Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and other parasites can cause serious health issues. Speak to your vet about safe and effective preventative products. These measures are important for any cat that goes outside, even for brief periods, and for indoor cats that live with other pets who spend time outdoors.
Vaccinate Your Cat: Vaccinations are essential for preventing common cat diseases such as Feline Leukemia, Rabies, and Distemper. Speak to your vet about the recommended vaccination schedule for your particular cat.
Provide Mental Stimulation: Mental stimulation is crucial for your cat’s overall well-being. Encourage playtime with laser pointers or hand-held cat toys, provide puzzle toys, or hide food in different locations. Some indoor cats will even tolerate a harness so you can safely take them on a walk outside.
Be Alert to Behavioral Changes: Cats are notorious for hiding signs of illness. If you notice any changes in behavior or routine, such as hiding, decreased appetite, or changes in social or litterbox habits, seek veterinary care immediately.
