February is National Cat Health Month! While we are dedicated to keeping kitties healthy all year long, this is a great time to talk about Fluffy’s health. Your pet can’t really tell how she feels, so it’s up to you to monitor her health. Here, a Seminole, FL vet lists some signs that your feline friend is doing well.
First and foremost, the best way to know if your furball is healthy is to have your vet examine her regularly. Most cats should come in at least once a year, though some will need more frequent visits. Also, keep up with Fluffy’s vaccines and parasite prevention.
Healthy pets have healthy appetites. Fluffy may be finicky, but even if she doesn’t like what you offered, she should still be interested in her dinner.
Fluffy will take time out of her busy napping schedule to carefully groom herself every day. She should have soft, clean fur. You also shouldn’t notice redness, scaling, bald spots, heavy scratching, or overgrooming.
Fluffy’s eyes should be clear and bright, and free of any watering or discharge. You also should not see her third eyelid, aside from just glimpsing it quickly when your pet opens or closes her eyes.
Our feline pals are notorious for being playful and frisky. If Fluffy is curious, frisky, and inquisitive (and sometimes downright silly) it’s a good sign.
By cattitude, we don’t necessarily mean aggression. In fact, if your pet is acting uncharacteristically grumpy, there may be something going on with her. We’re talking about the sort of things kitties do because, well they’re cats. Fluffy may knock things off your counter, pounce on your toes, or refuse to come when you call her. She may also snub you when you want to pet her, only to demand cuddles when you’re busy. Or, she may give you an annoyed ‘How Dare You’ meow if you move her mid-nap.
Sometimes no news is good news. If your kitty isn’t showing any signs of illness, such as withdrawal, poor grooming, lack of appetite, respiratory issues, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or litterbox woes, that’s great! The absence of red flags is definitely a good sign.
Is your cat overdue for an exam, vaccinations, or parasite control? Please contact us, your Seminole, FL vet clinic!
