Yesterday was National Bring Your Cat to the Vet Day, but don’t let that fact that you missed it stop you from bringing your cat in for a check-up. Regular veterinary care for felines is essential to their long and healthy lives. Studies have suggested that in the United States less than half of all cats get to see their veterinarians on a regular basis. Is yours one of them?
There are many reasons for regular medical care for your pets, just like people, but felines are masters of disguise and will very often mask symptoms of illness and injury until they become unbearable. This makes regular visits a vital part of their health.
Benefits of Routine Feline Veterinarian Visits
Since cats age faster than humans, their diseases can progress faster too. A cat reaches the human age of 15 after one year and 24 by the time it turns two. Although aging slows after two, each year is still equivalent to four human years. And, we all know how much things can change in four years.
In the United States obesity is not limited to humans. More than 50% of all cats are overweight or obese. As our human doctors remind us every year, just a few pounds overweight can lead to many other illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease, just to name a few. Your vet will check your cat’s weight along with early signs of any other diseases associated with obesity.
Adult cats have 30 teeth and periodontal disease is one of the most prevalent diseases in cats over three. Unfortunately, there are few signs of early periodontal disease in most animals. Cats are especially adept at managing minor discomfort and will find ways to work around any symptoms. Most cats will eat regularly without any change in appetite or behavior. A veterinarian will check teeth as part of their examination and treat any early signs tarter before periodontal disease has progressed beyond treatment.
During the exam, your vet will check for any parasites – fleas, ticks, ear mites or worms – and discuss treatment and/or prevention options. Speaking of prevention, they will also discuss any immunizations recommended for your particular feline.
Preventive Cat Care is Always Better than Reactive Care
Regular exams can help avoid medical emergencies and more severe illnesses. Veterinarians can often detect conditions or diseases before they become significant. “Early detection leads to easier treatments, therefore less cost, time and trauma to your furry family member.” states Dr. Kyoto Yoshida of Hudson Animal Hospital in NYC.
Just because you missed the annual reminder holiday doesn’t mean you should wait until next year to make an appointment for your cat’s check-up. Now is the right time to make their health a priority.
Dr. Kyoko Yoshida is the co-owner of Hudson Animal Hospital a veterinary clinic located in the upper west side of Manhattan. Along with her partner Dr. Christopher Angiello and the staff Hudson Animal Hospital provides wellness, illness and emergency care in a full service in the state-of-the-art facility.
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