As cat owners, we all want to keep our four-legged friends healthy and happy. We know that we must do everything possible to achieve this. However, the typical cat owner often overlooks some essential aspects of their pet's health care. Here are five of the most common mistakes vets see cat owners make.
1. Not Seeking Regular Veterinary Care
All cats require regular medical attention. Despite the fact that the number of cats kept as pets outnumbers the number of dogs, cats visit their vets less frequently than canines.
When it comes to hiding the symptoms of illness, cats are masters of disguise. The first signs of the disease are often underestimated and difficult to detect. Your vet is prepared to look for signs of illness that the average cat owner may not easily recognize. Any disease or health condition that your cat may develop can be treated more effectively if treated early. This can even make your cat live longer in some cases.
2. Assuming indoor cats can't get fleas or other parasites
Cat owners often (and mistakenly) think that since their feline lives indoors, fleas and other parasites can't become a problem. Too often, indoor cat owners believe that parasite prevention isn't necessary. Unfortunately, this is not the case at all. Fleas can find their way indoors very easily, hitch-hiking on your clothing or on a dog that does go outdoors, or finding their way through tiny openings in screens and doors. In addition, intestinal parasites like tapeworms and roundworms can be a problem as well. Mosquitoes can enter the house and potentially expose your cat to heartworms. Verify that the parasite prevention program that your cat is carrying is adequate.
3. Overfeeding your cat
Obesity is one of the most common conditions that veterinarians diagnose in cats. It is estimated that more than half of domestic cats are overweight or obese. These cats are in danger due to various medical problems. Problems with your cat's weight can effectively reduce her life expectancy, sometimes up to two years or more. Feed your cat to maintain its slim appearance and good health.
4. Assuming hairballs are normal
An occasional hairball is not unusual. However, frequent vomiting, with or without hairballs in the vomit, cough, urine, or gagging is unusual and may indicate health problems other than hairballs. Cats with these symptoms may have a skin disease, gastrointestinal disease, or other health problem. Your cat should be examined by a veterinarian if it exhibits any of these symptoms.
5. Not taking care of your cat's teeth
Your cat's oral health should never be ignored. Most cats over the age of three have already shown some signs of dental disease. Most cats will tolerate brushing with a little patience and conditioning. However, if brushing is impossible, your vet can suggest alternative treatments to keep your cat's mouth healthy and pain-free.
Source: Dr. Lorie Houston/PetMD
Image: Canva Stock Photos
