As a cat owner, it's important to be aware of the common health issues that can affect your cat or kitten. From dental problems to urinary tract infections, this guide will help you identify and prevent the top 5 health issues in cats, ensuring your pet stays happy and healthy.
Dental disease including periodontal disease
Regular dental care, such as brushing your cat's teeth and feeding them a crunchy kibble, can help prevent dental disease.
Dental disease is a common health issue in cats, and it can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Regular dental care is essential for preventing dental disease in your cat. This includes brushing your cat's teeth regularly with a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as providing crunchy kibble, dental treats or toys that help clean their teeth. Additionally, scheduling regular dental check-ups with your vet can help catch any dental issues early on and prevent them from progressing. Taking these steps to care for your cat's dental health can help keep their teeth clean and their overall health in check.
Check out our blog on dental health to read all our tips on maintaining good dental health.
Obesity
Feed your cat a balanced diet and provide regular exercise to prevent obesity.
Obesity is a common health issue in cats and can lead to a variety of health problems, including diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. To prevent obesity in your cat, it's important to feed them a balanced diet high in protein that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and limit treats to prevent excessive calorie intake. Additionally, providing regular exercise for your cat is crucial. This can include interactive play sessions, using toys or laser pointers, or even setting up a cat tree or scratching post for them to climb and explore. By maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise, you can help prevent obesity and promote your cat's overall health and well-being.
Urinary tract infections
Ensure your cat has access to fresh water and a clean litter tray to prevent urinary tract infections.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue in cats, especially in female cats. They can cause discomfort and pain for your furry friend, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious complications. To prevent UTIs in your cat, it's important to ensure they have access to fresh water at all times. This helps to flush out their urinary system and prevent the buildup of bacteria. Additionally, keeping their litter tray clean is crucial and using a cat clumping litter helps make this chore easier with less full tray changes. Make sure to scoop the litter tray daily and change the litter once every 30-45 days. By providing fresh water and a clean litter tray, you can help prevent urinary tract infections and keep your cat healthy.
Fleas and ticks
Use flea and tick prevention products to keep your cat protected from these parasites.
Fleas and ticks are common parasites that can cause a range of health issues in cats, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, and the transmission of diseases. To keep your cat protected, it's important to use flea and tick prevention products. These can include topical treatments, oral medications, and collars that repel and kill fleas and ticks. It's important to follow the instructions on the product and use them consistently to ensure maximum effectiveness. Regularly checking your cat for fleas and ticks and removing any you find can also help prevent infestations. By taking these preventative measures, you can keep your cat safe and free from these pesky parasites. Be aware as some flea and worming treatments bought online can cause allergic reactions, check with your vet to see which brand they recommend.
Hairballs
Regular grooming and providing hairball prevention products can help prevent hairballs in cats.
Hairballs are a common issue in cats, especially those with long hair. When cats groom themselves, they ingest loose hair, which can accumulate in their stomachs and form hairballs. These hairballs can cause discomfort, vomiting, and even intestinal blockages if not addressed. Regular grooming, such as brushing your cat's fur, can help remove loose hair and reduce the likelihood of hairballs. Additionally, there are hairball prevention products available, such as special treats, that can help lubricate the digestive system and aid in the passage of hairballs. By incorporating regular grooming and hairball prevention products into your cat's routine, you can help prevent hairballs and keep your furry friend healthy.
Finally, in order to ensure you are keeping on top of your cat’s health, ensure you take your cat to the vet for their yearly checkup and vaccinations. This is a great opportunity for your vet to give your cat a once over (particularly their teeth!) and let you know of any early signs of illness. It’s also a good idea to get a Lifetime cat insurance policy early on in your cat’s life for peace of mind. Insurance companies such as Waggel and other providers offer this type of insurance.
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