There’s a popular myth that cats don’t require the same amount of veterinary care as dogs. Some owners assume these self-sufficient creatures are fine unless they show obvious signs of sickness.  Cats are stoic creatures and will usually mask illness and pain.

kitten care

Most kittens will be desexed around six months of age, but if your kitten is from a shelter, they may have done the procedure before adoption.  Kittens require three or four feeds per day, or food left out until the age of six months, then fed twice a day for life.  They also require fortnightly deworming until six months of age, the either monthly spot-on deworming or three-monthly oral deworming for life.  At one year of age, you can transition your kitten to adult food.

adult care

Adult cats should see the vet at least once a year for a check-up, including weight and dental check, and vaccinations. Cats hide pain and discomfort very well, so it often takes a thorough history and discussion with your vet to identify when something’s wrong.

There’s a common misconception that indoor cats aren’t exposed to any dangers and don’t need these vaccinations or deworming. However, we can bring in viruses and parasite eggs from the environment into the home on our feet and clothing and expose our indoor cat to these.

senior care

When your cat reaches about eight years of age, your cat is considered senior and may need some baseline blood and urine tests. Early detection of problems means changes to diet or lifestyle can be implemented earlier.  After the age of ten, cats often see the vet as many as twice a year, particularly if they suffer from obesity, diabetes, arthritis, thyroid problems, or kidney issues.  Remember, cats are very stoic and ‘sleeping more’ is not a sign of old age and more often a sign of underlying discomfort or disease.

If your kitten, cat or senior pus needs to see the vet, Our Pet Mobile Vet will travel to you.