While owning a cat can be a very rewarding and loving process, it can also be a long learning opportunity for the owner to better understand their aloof and independent feline friend. Cats aren't always as straightforward as dogs when it comes to pet care. Our Columbia vets share a routine care checklist for cats and how to care for a cat.
Caring for a cat might seem low maintenance as they are fairly independent animals, and to some degree this is true. However, it is important for cat owners, new and practiced, to understand the requirements that must be met met in order to live long and healthy lives.
At-home cat care and veterinary cat health care come in many forms. As an owner, it is crucial for you to understand what you need to take your kitty to the vet for and what you should do for them at home. Below is our cat care checklist with comprehensive information on what most kitties need!
Our Cat Care Checklist
Like most pets, your cat requires routine care from both our Maury County Veterinary Hospital vets and you at home.
These are things that will be managed by a professional:
- Ticks and fleas
- Worming (intestinal and heartworm)
- Vaccinations
- Grooming
- Physical checks
- Dental hygiene
Pet wellness plans for cats can help make the cost of routine care more manageable allowing you to focus on pet wellness and care for lifelong health. This is why Maury County Veterinary Hospital offers payment aid plans.
Cats don't always have the same outside time as dogs, so they will need alternative ways to exercise and get their energy out.
Here are some things you can set up at home to help with that:
- Play and exercise -- your cat may sleep a lot but they do require playtime and exercise. It's important to make sure they have enough space to run around.
- Feeding -- like dogs, cats prefer to be fed at the same time each day. So having a feeding schedule is important.
- Cleaning -- your cat will clean itself regularly, but if you notice a lack of cleaning you will want to contact the vet right away, this could be a sign of something more serious.
- Housing -- cats need to have a "home" inside your home. Something they can climb on, scratch, and sleep in.
- Toys -- toys are important for cats as well. They love toys that stimulate their mind.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.