Taking Your Cat to the Vet

August 22nd is Take Your Cat To The Vet Day! While Fluffy may prefer celebrating Hug Your Cat Day or Cat World Domination Day, this is an great reminder about the importance of taking your kitty to the vet regularly. A local Oconomowoc, WI vet discusses bringing your cat to the vet below.

When your kitty is just a tiny ball of fur, she’ll need to come in a few times, for her initial exams and vaccinations. Little Fluffy should be microchipped and spayed or neutered while she is still young. You’ll also want to get your furry little friend started on her parasite control products. Of course, we like to do purr checks as well. This entails offering kittens lots of cuddles and ear scritches, to make sure that their little motors start properly.

Once your kitty is fully grown, she may only need to come in once a year, for wellness care. This generally entails staying current with your pet’s exams and vaccinations. Keeping up with Fluffy’s parasite control products is also very important. Cats that go outdoors may need to come in more often, as they are more exposed to parasites, bacteria, and other hazards. Ask your vet for more information.

Just like people, cats often need to see their doctors more frequently as they age. It’s always very beneficial when a health issue is caught and treated early. Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.

Always keep a close eye out for signs of illness or injury. Some common ones include poor grooming; hiding; changes in thirst or appetite; uncharacteristic behavior or vocalizations; respiratory issues; litterbox troubles; vomiting; diarrhea; fever; lethargy; and crankiness. Kitties often don’t let on that they don’t feel well until they are quite sick, so contact your vet immediately if you spot anything amiss.

As you may have noticed, Fluffy is not very enthusiastic about car rides. To make the trip a little easier for her, put comfy bedding and fun toys in her carrier. Keep a radio on, and roll the window partway down for fresh air. If your pet gets extremely anxious in the car, ask your vet about using cat-calming products, such as sprays or treats.

Do you need to make an appointment for your kitty? Contact us, your Oconomowoc, WI vet clinic! We’re here to help!