While we know that cats believe they should be celebrated every month, it’s important that once in a while we focus on their health. Compared to dogs, cats seem like low-maintenance pets, but they still need regular wellness care. Unfortunately, after their first visits as kittens, most never return to the vet for years until there’s a serious emergency.
Cats are masters at hiding illness and injury, so without regular check-ups you may not know there’s anything wrong until it’s too late. This is especially true when it comes to life-threatening kidney disease—which 1 in 3 cats will develop in their lifetimes. That’s why early diagnosis with check-ups and blood tests is so important.
Another potentially dangerous health issue for cats as they get older is hyperthyroidism, which occurs when your cat’s thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormone. Untreated it can lead to problems with the heart, kidneys, and other organs, but once diagnosed it can be successfully managed with medication and/or diet.
But…we all know taking cats to the vet can be a challenge. Most don’t enjoy it and so they don’t make it easy. Luckily, our team of animal lovers has a lot of experience with gentle handling, so we will do our best to make it as positive an experience for your pet as possible. Getting your cat used to the carrier prior to vet appointments will help, as will placing a towel over the carrier in the car and at the vet.
If it’s been over a year since your feline friend has seen the vet, don’t wait–make an appointment online [LINK TO APPOINTMENT PAGE] or call us at [HOSPITAL PHONE].