Litter Boxes:
You should have at least one litter box per cat, plus one. The litter box should be big enough for your cat to get in and turn around comfortably. Plastic “under the bed” storage boxes, cement mixing boxes, and small children’s wading pools all make great litter boxes.
Behaviorists recommend using scoopable, unscented litter. Boxes should be scooped at least once daily. Cats have a much more sensitive nose than we do; therefore, if you smell the litter box, your cat REALLY smells it!
If your cat suddenly starts to use areas other than the litter box and their boxes are clean, have your cat checked by your vet for a possible urinary tract problem.
Regular Exams:
When your favorite feline is past its “kitten age”, a yearly wellness exam is the best gift you can give them. It gives your vet a chance to detect and prevent any health issues as soon as possible. It’s a time to discuss flea, tick and parasite control as well as diet and dental care.
If there are signs of anything questionable, your vet may want to do further tests to keep your cat as healthy as she can. Once you supply your vet with pertinent information on your cat, she will be able to recommend the appropriate vaccinations to properly protect them until their next exam.
Senior Cat (8+ years old) Recommendation:
Recently, the American Association of Feline Practitioners began recommending blood tests be run on cats 8 years of age and older. If your cat(s) falls into this category, and will soon be due for an annual exam, we wanted you to be aware of this information. These tests are not mandatory but recommended.
The blood work consists of the following:
Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test gives information on infection, anemia, hydration, blood clotting ability and immune system.
Blood Chemistry: This test evaluates body organ functions and electrolytes. Specifically, kidney, liver, and pancreas functions as well as a diabetes test. Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium levels are evaluated.
Thyroid Level: This test checks for hyperthyroidism, one of the most common causes of weight loss in cats.
Heart Enzymes: Looks for heart disease.Often times cats do not show any signs of heart disease until they are already in heart failure. If we detect a problem early we may be able to prevent a patient from developing heart failure.
If run separately, these tests would cost in excess of $500.00. A geriatric profile run during your cat’s annual exam will cost $198.68, a savings of almost 50%. Blood is drawn during the office visit and results are available within 2-3 business days. These results give us a more thorough view of your cat’s physical well being and allow for any treatment recommendations your cat may need as it enters its senior years.
Should you have any questions on this information, or any other issues concerning your cat, please do not hesitate to call us. Your cat’s health is our top priority.