CAT CARE
By: Dr.Elizabeth Gibbs
Escondido Humane Society Staff Veterinarian
Your veterinarian plays an important role in your kitten or cat's life. It is essential to choose a veterinarian upon acquiring your new cat, or even beforehand! Cats should have annual or bi-annual wellness visits with their veterinarian. Kittens will need to go more often in the first year to get all the vaccinations they need and to be spayed or neutered. At your vet visits, your cat may get vaccines, diagnostic tests like fecal analysis or bloodwork, as well as a complete exam. Cats can also get teeth cleaning as part of regular preventative care. It is very important to see your vet, even if you think your cat is well, so that they remain healthy.
Probably the most important thing you can do for your new cat or kitten is to have them spayed or neutered. No cat is adopted from the Escondido Humane Society without being spayed or neutered. This helps to reduce pet overpopulation and allows your cat to live a healthier, longer life. Spaying and neutering reduces the risks of certain diseases and cancers, as well as making your cat more affectionate. Spayed and neutered cats are less likely to roam or wander, get into fights, or bite. It is NOT true that neutering or spaying your cat makes them fat and lazy, that is only caused by too much food and not enough activity!
Vaccines protect your cat from illness and disease. There are vaccines that are highly recommended and others that are optional depending upon your cat's lifestyle and environment. It is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal vaccine schedule for your cat or kitten. Kittens will need 2 or 3 sets of vaccines in their first year, as will some adult cats if you don't know their vaccine history. After that, appropriate vaccination as recommended by your veterinarian is the best protection for the life of your cat.