If you are responsible for a feline friend, you know one of the greatest perks is how autonomous cats can be. While it may be incredibly beneficial for cats to be independent, it also makes it easy for owners to overlook possible health concerns. Our furry friends do not often tell us when they are feeling sick. Therefore it is important to monitor your cat’s health so that you know when they need to be taken to the vet or need medical attention.
Cat care is important at every stage of a cat’s life, and at Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic, we’ve seen it all; newborn kittens, cats rescued from disastrous conditions, and lifelong feline friends. As a vet for cats in Colorado Springs, we strongly encourage vaccines, annual wellness exams, dental exams, and more to promote positive, healthy lives of cats. If you aren’t certain that your cat needs to visit your local veterinarian, below is a brief outline of when to take your cat to the vet.
How Often Should I Take My Cat To The Vet?
It’s important to take your cat to your local veterinarian once a year after they are between one and seven years old. Prior to adulthood, your kitten should visit the veterinarian multiple times during the early stages to receive proper vaccinations, microchipping, and undergo spay or neuter surgery. During the adult stage of their life, it is important to maintain annual visits to ensure any underlying conditions are properly addressed by performing head-to-tail physicals, administering vaccines, taking bloodwork, and checking your cat’s dental health. During your cat’s senior years, we suggest twice-yearly checkups to complete blood and urine tests and physical exams in order to monitor your cat’s kidney and liver health or any concerning changes their bodies might be experiencing.
My Cat Is Acting Strange.
You know your cat better than anyone. If your cat is acting differently then it may be time to contact your local veterinarian instead of continually searching symptoms online. It is always better to make safe decisions for your pet so you can have peace of mind and your feline friend can get to feeling better. Below are a few signs that your cat may need to be seen by a veterinarian:
- Change in Appetite
- Abnormal Walk
- Change in Litter Box Habits
- More or Less Vocal Than Usual
- Discolored Gums
- Coughing or Vomiting
Is My Cat In Pain?
Whether your cat prefers to be inside or outside in unpredictable Colorado weather, they may be prone to various injuries. Unfortunately, your cat has a natural instinct to mask pain and discomfort so they do not appear weak to potential predators.
Whether an injury is minor or severe, it is important to bring your feline to the veterinarian as soon as possible in order to administer treatment and avoid further harm. Below are a few examples of common injuries that cats face:
- Bite Wounds
- Lacerations
- Swallowed Objects
- Abscesses
- Insect Stings and Bites
- Fractures, Sprains, and Strains
When Should I Take My Cat To The Vet
Beyond the resasons that we have discussed you cat should see a vet for all of the following reasons. Read more to learn when and why you should take your cat to the vet.
- Your Cat Has Allergies
- Yearly Cat Checkups
- Frequent Cat Sneezing
- Cat Vomiting
- Blood Work
- Cat Vaccines
- Dental Cleanings
When To See A Vet | Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic
At Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic in Colorado Springs, we want to help treat any health concern that your cat may face. We are proud to be a vet for cats, and it is very important to our team to be transparent with diagnosis as well as potential treatment options in order to ultimately empower every pet owner with the knowledge needed to care for their cat in the best possible manner. Contact us to schedule a wellness exam, vaccination, or various other services in order to improve the quality of life for your cat.
