Many of you at times feel lonely and wish for a company. Cats are wonderful company.
You always want your little pussy to be healthy. But like humans, cats also face some problems in health.
Taking care of small things will make your cat healthy and lead a trouble free existence [Tips for cat care].
Cat health care basics:
- As cats are carnivores, give them some fleshy items such as meat, poultry and fish. Give the food which you would also prefer to eat. Do not give left over food.
- Feeding milk is an extra diet for your cat and this can be included if your cat is too playful and active.
- Give rich protein food and avoid carbohydrate fillers.
- Give fresh water every day.
- Regular grooming is necessary to avoid fur balls.
- Get vaccinated from diseases.
- Visit a veterinarian doctor regularly, as cats are also prone to diseases like cancer, kidney failure, heart and dental diseases.
- Cats are attracted to tinsel, needles, rubber bands and threads, which can be swallowed by them unknowingly. Keep these articles away from cats’ reach.
Even after much care, cats are prone to many diseases.
Methods follow for keeping your cat healthy:
Annual check up: This should be done by an experienced veterinarian, which should include examination of cat’s body, weight, taking its temperature, listening to the cat’s heart and lungs.
Check for abnormal discharges from bodily orifices such as eyes and nose. Check its teeth, gums and ears to examine for parasites and abscesses. Stool test should be conducted for the presence of parasites.
Excessive licking: It can cause due to several conditions like stress, food allergies and many more. Consult a vet and confirm if licking is caused due to food. Change the food and examine the difference.
The doctor can suggest you with some specific food brands which are not allergic for your cat and this will help most of it. If licking is also due to stress, try to spend more time with your pet.
Poisonous house plants: Be careful while choosing household plants. Some plants are poisonous for the kitten and even cats. Berries on mistletoe, diffenbachia, poinsettia, English ivy and Crocus produce health related problems.
Increased thirst: This can be due to diabetes, kidney or liver problems. But, as the cat grows older it does not require calories or solid food. It likes to consume much liquid, no need not worry in this case. Consulting a doctor at any stage will be the best advice.
Controlling hair balls: This is often seen in long or thick haired cats. This needs regular brushing, bathing with mild shampoo and drying your cat’s fur properly. Neglecting brushing can cause skin diseases.
Ear mites: Highly infectious little pests that accumulate in the ear canals causes itching and when left untreated can make your cat deaf too. So, over scratching at the ear area can be due to mites. Persistent medication is necessary to treat these mites.
Dental care: Regular removal of plaque on teeth is a part of dental care routine. Bad breath could also be a sign of gingivitis.
Some signs of tooth decay:
- Bad breath
- A yellow brown crust of tartar
- Bleeding from gums.
Following the above procedures and tips can keep your cat healthy.
