Your feline companions are an important part of the family, and February is the month dedicated to helping to keep your cat happy, healthy, and active for as long as possible. In addition to National Cat Health Month, February is also National Feline Dental Health Month and National Spay/Neuter Awareness Month.
Here are some ways you can mark the month by taking steps to ensure your cat can live her best life!
Annual Veterinary Exam
Life is busy, and it’s easy to forget when it’s time to bring your cat in for an annual exam and routine shots. Some cats are only seen by vets when something is wrong but completing a yearly exam can identify potential health issues sooner. The earlier a health problem is caught, the better.
Your cat’s annual exam is also the perfect time to make sure her vaccines are up to date.
These may include:
- Rabies
- Combination FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (feline herpes), Panleukopenia virus (feline distemper) and Calicivirus)
- Feline Leukemia
- Bordetella
The first two are recommended for all cats. The need for Feline Leukemia and Bordetella shots depends on whether your cat spends time outdoors or around other cats. Your vet will advise which vaccines your cat should get.
Use February—National Cat Health Month—as a reminder to take care of your cat’s routine health needs.
Stock Up On Flea and Heartworm Prevention
In most locations, flea and heartworm prevention is needed year-round. Take time during National Can Health Month to stock up on these items, so you’ll never have to skip a dose. Even indoor cats need flea prevention to avoid scratching and potential health problems associated with a flea infestation, such as anemia or tapeworms.
Dental Cleaning
Since it’s also National Feline Dental Health Month, ask your vet if your pet would benefit from a dental cleaning. Since cats won’t sit back and open wide, dental cleanings usually involve anesthesia. There are, however, anesthesia-free options that vets implement for medically compromised pets.
Dental health is essential as dental disease causes pain and discomfort and can negatively affect your cat’s overall health.
In addition to an annual dental checkup and cleanings as needed, there are ways you can support your cat’s oral health at home. Most cats don’t take kindly to having their teeth brushed. Fortunately, there are other options, including Dentacetric Tooth Wipes and Vetradent Water Additive. The latter is simply added to your cat’s drinking water and helps prevent bacterial growth and reduce the buildup of tartar.
Spay or Neuter
Has your cat been spayed or neutered? If not, schedule an appointment during National Spay/Neuter Awareness Month. Benefits of spaying or neutering your pet are many and include preventing certain types of cancers and reducing unwanted behaviors, such as spraying. It also prevents unwanted litters, which is vital when considering that about 3.4 million cats end up in shelters every year.
Celebrate National Cat Health Mon by investing in the well-being of your feline best friend. For all your pet care product needs, including food, prescription medications, toys, and more, Allivet is here for you, and our low prices and excellent customer service make it easy to see why so many pet owners count on us!