Your Expert Guide To A Healthier, Happier Cat
Cats may seem to navigate life with independence and effortless grace, but they’re also masters of disguise, often masking pain or illness. “Health in cats is a snapshot in time, and it can change,” a Pet Valu animal care expert (ACE) explains. “By the time a devoted pet lover notices an issue, it might have been developing for a while.”
While attentive care enhances the well-being of our furry companions, what specifics can help them live happier, healthier and longer lives? With expert insights from Pet Valu’s ACEs, we’ve curated a guide to identifying and managing prevalent cat health issues to keep your feline fur baby purring alongside you for longer.
Preventive care is your cat's best defense
In cats, like in humans, some health conditions can be mitigated with lifestyle choices like proper diet and exercise, while others may be genetic and require veterinary intervention. “It’s crucial to establish a relationship with a vet early on,” says the ACE. “Yearly vet visits are standard for healthy indoor cats, though biannual checks can be beneficial, especially for those with existing health issues.”
Preventative measures also extend beyond vet visits, encompassing quality nutrition, proper hydration, engaging toys for mental stimulation, flea prevention and consistent grooming. “Grooming is an excellent way to detect physical changes like weight fluctuation, limping or unusual marks on their skin,” notes the ACE.
Spotting and addressing common feline health issues
In addition to physical changes, observing changes in behaviour, such as different activity levels, sociability or litter box habits, can also help with the early detection of potential health issues. “The range of cat health issues is vast, from constipation to diabetes,” the ACE says, highlighting obesity, dental disease, urinary tract problems and stress-induced conditions as top concerns.
Knowing what signs to look for is just as vital as knowing what actions to take.
Hairballs
Signs: Frequent hacking without expelling, loss of appetite.
Action: Vet visit
Prevention: Regular grooming to minimize ingested hair. Hairball treatments can help pass ingested hair through the digestive tract safely.
1. Head to Tail Hairball Cat Supplements
2. Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Remedy Tuna Flavour Gel
Fleas
Signs: Excessive scratching; biting at skin; flea dirt (small black dots) in their fur.
Action: Vet visit.
Prevention: Regular use of flea prevention treatments is recommended.
Obesity
Signs:
Excess weight; decreased activity; difficulty grooming.
Action: Vet visit.
Prevention: Ensure a balanced diet and encourage exercise through play—explore a range of diet-specific foods to foster a healthier lifestyle for your cat. See your vet or an ACE for nutritional advice.
Digestive health and dietary supplements
1. Pet-Ag KMR Kitten Milk Replacer Liquid
2. Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora Veterinary Cat Supplements
3. Pet-Ag KMR Kitten Milk Replacer Powder
Gum disease and other dental issues
Signs: Bad breath; red or swollen gums; difficulty eating.
Action: Regular dental check-ups
Prevention: Daily tooth care and dental-care products (food, treats and toys) designed to reduce tartar buildup and support oral health.
Urinary tract issues
Signs: Straining to urinate; blood in urine; frequent urination.
Action: Seek immediate veterinary care for treatment.
Prevention: Hydration is key—consider wet foods and a cat water fountain to encourage drinking. A special diet may be required.
Upper respiratory diseases
Signs: Excessive sneezing and drooling. In extreme cases, a mucus-y nose and runny eyes, causing mouth breathing and low appetite.
Action: Monitor closely and be prepared to visit the vet quickly for antibiotics.
Prevention: Regular vaccinations can help and support a healthy immune system.
Stress and anxiety
1. Feliway Optimum Diffuser & Refill Starter Kit
2. NaturVet Hemp Quiet Moments Calming Soft Chews for Cats
3. Head to Tail Calming Cat Supplement
4. Feliway Optimum 30 Day Diffuser Refill
By familiarizing ourselves with common health challenges, we can become adept at spotting early signs and taking proactive steps to address them. After all, our feline friends rely on us to be their advocates for a healthy life. Just remember, often, the best medicine is being around you. "Cats are individuals that thrive on engagement and social interaction with their families," shares a Pet Valu Animal Care Expert. "One-on-one playtime and socializing are not just fun—they're essential for their health and well-being."
Find more expert advice and health products at petvalu.ca.