Cats are independent and often seem like they can take care of themselves, but regular healthcare is essential to keep them thriving. From nutrition and vaccinations to dental care and parasite prevention, proactive care can help your cat live a long, happy life.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about keeping your cat healthy and spotting signs of illness early.
Essential Aspects of Cat Healthcare
1️⃣ Nutrition: The Foundation of Good Health
A balanced diet is one of the most important aspects of cat care. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require high-protein, meat-based diets to stay healthy.
What Should You Feed Your Cat?
✔ High-quality commercial cat food – Look for a diet rich in animal protein and essential nutrients.
✔ Wet food vs. dry food – Wet food helps with hydration, while dry food can support dental health.
✔ Fresh water – Always provide clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration and urinary issues.
Common Nutrition-Related Health Issues:
🚨 Obesity – Overfeeding or too many treats can lead to weight gain and health problems.
🚨 Allergies & Intolerances – If your cat experiences itchy skin, vomiting, or diarrhea, they may have a food allergy.
🐾 Tip: Our pet nutritionists can help you choose the best diet for your cat’s specific needs!
2️⃣ Preventative Healthcare: Vaccinations & Check-Ups
Regular vet visits are crucial for early detection of health issues and to keep your cat protected against diseases.
Essential Vaccinations for Cats:
✔ Feline Herpesvirus & Calicivirus – Prevents upper respiratory infections.
✔ Feline Panleukopenia (FPV) – Protects against a highly contagious and often fatal virus.
✔ Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) – Especially important for outdoor cats.
✔ Rabies – Required in some areas, especially if your cat travels.
How Often Should You Visit a Pet Expert?
🐾 Kittens – Every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old for vaccinations and early health checks.
🐾 Adult Cats – Once a year for a general check-up and vaccinations.
🐾 Senior Cats (7+ years) – Twice a year, as older cats are more prone to health issues.
🐾 Tip: Even if your cat seems healthy, routine check-ups help catch issues before they become serious.
3️⃣ Dental Health: Keeping Your Cat’s Teeth & Gums Healthy
Did you know? By age 3, most cats already show signs of dental disease! Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath, gum infections, and even organ damage.
How to Keep Your Cat’s Teeth Clean:
✔ Brush their teeth with cat-friendly toothpaste a few times a week.
✔ Provide dental treats or chew toys to reduce plaque buildup.
✔ Schedule professional dental cleanings if tartar buildup becomes excessive.
🚨 Signs of Dental Problems:
❌ Bad breath
❌ Drooling
❌ Difficulty eating or chewing
❌ Swollen or bleeding gums
🐾 Tip: Start brushing early to get your cat used to the process—even older cats can learn with patience!
4️⃣ Parasite Prevention: Fleas, Worms & Ticks
Even indoor cats can get parasites, so regular prevention is key.
Common Parasites in Cats:
🦟 Fleas – Cause itching, hair loss, and can transmit diseases.
🪱 Worms (Roundworms, Tapeworms, Hookworms) – Can lead to weight loss and digestive issues.
🐜 Ticks – Carry diseases and should be removed carefully.
How to Protect Your Cat:
✔ Use flea and tick prevention treatments year-round.
✔ Regularly check for fleas and ticks, especially in outdoor cats.
✔ Deworm kittens every 2 weeks until 12 weeks old, then every few months for adult cats.
🚨 Signs of a Parasite Problem:
❌ Scratching excessively
❌ Hair loss or scabs
❌ Worms in stool or around the anus
❌ Unexplained weight loss
🐾 Tip: A flea infestation can spread quickly, so prevention is always better than treatment!
5️⃣ Common Health Issues in Cats
Even with the best care, cats can develop health problems. Early detection is key to effective treatment.
Signs Your Cat Might Be Sick:
🚨 Changes in Appetite – Eating less (or more) than usual.
🚨 Lethargy – Sleeping excessively or showing less interest in play.
🚨 Vomiting or Diarrhea – Occasional vomiting is normal, but frequent issues may signal a problem.
🚨 Weight Changes – Sudden weight loss or gain could indicate a medical issue.
🚨 Increased Thirst & Urination – A potential sign of diabetes or kidney disease.
🐾 Tip: If you notice any of these signs, speak with a pet expert or vet as soon as possible!
6️⃣ Senior Cat Care: Extra Attention for Older Felines
As cats age, they need special care to stay comfortable and healthy.
Common Senior Cat Health Issues:
✔ Arthritis – Causes stiffness and difficulty jumping.
✔ Kidney Disease – Common in older cats, leading to increased thirst and weight loss.
✔ Hyperthyroidism – Leads to weight loss, increased appetite, and restlessness.
How to Care for a Senior Cat:
🐾 Provide a soft, warm bed in an easy-to-access location.
🐾 Feed a diet tailored for senior cats with joint support.
🐾 Schedule regular health check-ups to monitor age-related conditions.
🐾 Tip: Senior cats may need litter boxes with lower sides to make access easier.
Proactive Care for a Long, Healthy Life
Keeping your cat healthy doesn’t have to be complicated—with the right care, your feline friend can enjoy a long, happy life!
Key Takeaways:
✔ Feed a balanced diet tailored to your cat’s needs.
✔ Schedule regular check-ups & vaccinations.
✔ Keep teeth clean to prevent dental disease.
✔ Use flea & worm preventatives to protect against parasites.
✔ Watch for signs of illness and act early.
🐾 Looking for expert nutrition advice or high-quality cat healthcare products? Our team of pet nutritionists is here to help! Visit us in-store or online for tailored recommendations.
Author – Jordan