Your Cat's Health

Your cat's health is important.  Choosing a vet that is helpful and friendly as well as knowledgeable will make things easier for you.  Along with routine checkups and vaccinations you may be confronting with several choices.  Should you spay or neuter your cat?  Should you have your cat de-clawed?  What do I do in an emergency?  Having as much information ahead of time will make these decisions easier.

You and Your Vet:  This is probably the most important decision you will make in regards to your cats health.  In some areas this choice is based on convenience but when there are several to choose from you should pick one that specializes in cats.  Your vet will have all the needed information as to which vaccinations are needed, how often a physical exam will be needed, and alert you to any problems you may need to watch for.

Should I Spay or Neuter My Cat?:  Unless you are going to breed your cat it is recommended to have your cat spayed or neutered.  An un-neutered male will spray pungent urine, fight more with other cats and tend to wander farther then a neutered male.  An un-spayed female will go thru heat several times a year and unless kept indoors may have unwanted pregnancies.  If a cat is altered at a young age the cat is typically more affectionate.

Should I Have My Cat De-Clawed?:  This subject has a lot of controversy around it.  Some feel it is like amputation and therefore inhumane, others feel it is a necessity for an indoor cat.  Whatever your point of view it's always best to discuss thoroughly with your vet.

What Do I Do in an Emergency?:  There are a lot of 24 hour clinics and pet hospitals available.  Consult your vet or check your local yellow pages.  This is something that is best if done ahead of time so that you are prepared when a crisis arises.