The Importance of Annual Vet Checks

Overview:

Often we associate a trip to the vet as something only required when your cat becomes unwell, however is also important to remember that visiting your cat on an annual basis is equally important for your cat's wellbeing & longevity.

There is much debate over the necessity of annual booster shots. Some veterinarians still recommend it, some don't believe it is necessary to vaccinate that often. Owners who choose to vaccinate less frequently may forget the importance of still taking their cat to the vet once a year. While your cat is at the vet receiving it's booster shot, the vet also performs a physical examination of your cat & will ask you questions about overall health including changes you may have noticed. It is during this examination that potential problems can be picked up. So even if you decide to not vaccinate on an annual basis, please do take your cat for a check up.

During your visit, your veterinarian look at & discuss;

• Dental examination

• Weight

• Skin & coat, general condition & lumps & bumps

• Ears & eyes

• Parasite control

• Heart

• Musculoskeletal exam

Your veterinarian will ask if you have any questions, this is a good time to discuss any concerns you have or ask questions on health, diet, parasite control & general cat care.

Senior cats:

Cats 7 years & older require a veterinary examination at least once a year, twice a year is even better. With regular visits to the veterinarian any age related conditions can be picked up early & treated. Many diseases afflicting older cats can't be cured but they can be managed & the earlier they are picked up, the better.

Some tests your veterinarian may wish to perform, (especially on older cats) include;

• Complete blood count

• Biochemical profile

• Stool exam

• Urinalysis

These tests will provide your veterinarian with a good profile of your cat's overall health. More specific tests may be required if the above tests show a potential problem.

Between visits:

It is important to keep a careful eye on your cat & see your veterinarian if you notice any of the following;

• Excessive thirst

• Increase or decrease in eating habits

• Weight loss or weight gain

• Changes in behaviour

• Vomiting

• Any lumps or bumps

• Bad breath

• Lethargy

• Cough, laboured breathing or shortness of breath

• Increase in temperature, pulse or breathing rate

• Changes in litter box habits. Constipation, diarrhea, frequent urination, straining to go to the toilet, blood in feces

• Abnormal discharges containing pus or blood. These often have an offensive odour. Keep an out for discharges from the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, penis or vagina.

Prompt veterinary attention should be sought if you notice any of the above.

Preventive care at home:

There are certainly ways to ensure your cat stays in peak condition for as long as possible. These include;

• Feeding a good quality, nutritious diet

• Dental care

• Maintaining proper parasitic control

• Keeping a close eye on your cat's general wellbeing & seeking veterinary advice as soon as you notice changes. Not only would these include obvious signs of sickness such as injury etc., but also indicators such as change in eating or litter box habit, unkempt coat, general lethargy, change in behaviour.

• Being aware of your cat's weight.

It cannot be emphasised enough how important it is to remember regular check ups with the vet, even if your cat appears well. Many vets offer a reminder service, which is something you can discuss with them.