Keeping Fluffy Healthy

February is National Cat Health Month! Kitties are quite hardy pets: they clean themselves, sleep all day, and don’t need to be walked or bathed. As for training, well, Fluffy usually trains her humans, rather than it being the other way around. However, your furry friend does need good care in order to thrive. A Roswell, NM vet discusses some aspects of cat care in this article.

Food

A good diet is the foundation of your furball’s care regimen. Fluffy should be getting a high-quality food, one that is appropriate to her age and lifestyle. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Litter

Dirty litterboxes are not only stinky and unsightly, they’re also havens for germs and bacteria. Keep Fluffy’s powder room clean!

Grooming

Cats are pretty self-sufficient in this area. However, brushing your feline pal is also beneficial, as it can prevent hairballs and reduce the amount of fur you find all over … everything.  Longhaired kitties will need some extra help taking care of all that fur. 

Veterinary Care

Many of our feline buddies don’t see their doctors as often as they should. We recommend that all kitties be fixed, microchipped, and kept current on screenings, exams, vaccines, and parasite control. For most adult cats, an annual visit should be fine, though your vet may recommend more frequent appointments for some furballs.

Kittyproofing

If there’s one thing we can say for sure about our feline buddies, it’s that they are pretty much built for mischief. Make your home safe for Fluffy by removing or securing possible hazards, such as small or sharp objects, plastic wraps, and anything with ropes or strings. Ask your vet for petproofing tips.

Grounding Fluffy

One of the best things you can do for Fluffy is keep her inside. The Great Outdoors poses many risks for a curious little ball of fur. Cars, weather, wild animals, and chemicals are just a few of the dangers outdoor cats face.

Playtime/Entertainment

Fluffy may spend a rather excessive amount of time napping, but she can’t sleep 24/7. Kitties need things to watch, ponder, explore, and pounce on. Provide your furry pal with plenty of playthings, and take time to play with her regularly.

Purrs

Your kitty’s mental and emotional health are also important. Offer little luxuries like catnip and kitty furniture. It’s also important to pay attention to Fluffy. Spend time with her every day, and keep that motor going!

As your local Roswell, NM animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering great care. We are here to help!