The Importance of Cat Health & Wellness Care

February is National Cat Health Month, and here at Bayside Animal Hospital, we’re passionate about helping feline friends live their healthiest, happiest lives. Cats are independent by nature, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need routine veterinary check-ups, dental exams, preventative care, fitness routines, and more to be in the best of health. Cat health and wellness care begins right at home, and we’ve got a few tips to help you get started.

Cat Vaccinations for Best Health

Vaccines are a vital part of a cat’s health, whether you have a kitten, adult, or senior cat. The essential vaccines protect them from respiratory infections, feline leukemia, and so much more. Your kitten’s vaccination schedule should start when they’re around six weeks old and continue every three to four weeks until they are four months old. Some of these diseases can be treated if your cat becomes ill, but they can be very costly to treat. In many cases, we suggest vaccines and preventive care as these illnesses are known to be terminal. Your pets are our family, too, and we want to help you provide the best health care available. 

Wellness Care for Your Cat

All cats should have booster shots every one to three years to keep their immunity resistant to those viruses, diseases, and other illnesses that could cause them harm. Aim to have a veterinary wellness exam at least once per year, and annual dental cleanings are always a good idea. Yearly vet exams provide your cat with the best in preventative care, and we happily send reminders to ensure all of our patients and their owners never miss an appointment.

Physical Activity for Healthy Felines

All cats require mental stimulation and physical exercise. Set aside at least 30 minutes each day to play with your cat. With so many fun games to play together, setting aside time to play with your furry friend not only improves their health, but it’s also a way to create a strong bond with your cat. 

Don’t forget to invest in a good scratching post for your kitty. Scratching keeps cats’ muscles toned and removes dead layers from their claws. The rhythmic, repetitive nature of scratching also helps lower your cat’s stress and anxiety levels. It’s inherent to their species, as scratching allows cats to mark their territory. Providing a scratching post or two can also help prevent your cat from scratching up your furniture or other items, especially if you take the time to train your cat to use the scratching post.

Feeding Your Cat

When it comes to diet, all cats have essential vitamins and minerals that help provide the absolute best in nutrition. All cats need taurine, for example, an amino acid that’s good for both their heart and eyes. Our staff will gladly recommend the best cat food for your pet, one packed with all of the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids essential for optimal cat health.

Keep a Tidy Litter Box

A clean litter box is also essential for a healthy cat. The best rule of thumb is to have one litter box per floor, and add an extra litter box per cat if you have more than one. Having a clean litter box at all times can help prevent territorial fights and ensure that your cat always has access to a clean space to do their business.

Clean all waste from your cat’s litter box and refresh the pan once per day, and empty and clean the box with an organic, pet-friendly cleaning detergent at least once per week.

We Put Your Cat’s Health First

At Bayside Animal Hospital, we love helping owners learn more about cat wellness and caring for their feline friends. In addition to providing routine veterinary exams and services, we also offer education and support to owners. It’s our goal to help you and your cat enjoy many wonderful, happy years together, and that starts with understanding how to protect their health and well-being.

Contact us at Bayside Animal Hospital today to schedule your cat’s next check-up, and be sure to call us with any questions you may have.