Do Cats Have To Go to the Vet Regularly?

How To Keep Your Cat Healthy So They Remain Happy

A cat with a clean bill of health is likely living their best life, and don’t we all want that for them?

Regular check-ups with the veterinarian are key in keeping your cat healthy and happy. Unfortunately, many cats don't go to the veterinarian as often as they should. In fact, some don't even go at all, which can needlessly put their health at risk. Even if you have a healthy cat that leads a low-risk lifestyle, there are several benefits to taking your feline friend to the vet at least once per year.

To delve into this topic a little deeper, we will answer some common questions that cat owners ask regarding trips to the veterinarian and why they’re important.

“Why Does My Cat Need To Go to the Vet?”

All pets–no matter what species–require ongoing medical attention. Even though cats are rather independent, they still need preventive healthcare services, including routine shots and vaccinations. This helps them avoid preventable diseases like feline distemper and rabies. Additionally, a wellness visit is an opportune time to speak with your veterinarian about preventing parasites such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms (yes, cats can get heartworms).

Another aspect of your cat's health that your veterinarian will track is their weight. Obesity is a big problem for cats that can lead to a variety of health problems such as joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease. By paying a visit to your vet, they can make you aware of whether your cat’s weight is becoming an issue or not.

Do cats need to go to the vet? If you want to help them live a long and healthy life, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

“Do Cats Need To Go to the Vet Regularly?”

Indeed, they do. At a minimum, you should be taking your cat in at least once per year for a comprehensive exam. This gives your vet the opportunity to examine their joints, teeth, eyes, and so forth to look for signs of degradation. Additionally, your vet may order blood work if they suspect your cat is sick or has contracted a disease.

When it comes to maintaining the health of a cat, prevention and catching illnesses early is the name of the game. That’s why regular visits are so important. Of course, if you notice that your cat is sick or behaving strangely, you should take them in immediately. Attempting to wait out an illness may put your cat in greater danger.

“Does My Indoor Cat Need To Go to the Vet?”

Absolutely. Although an indoor cat is less exposed to dangers and disease than an outdoor cat, that does not mean they should be deprived of routine healthcare services. Indoor cats are still susceptible to obesity, joint issues, dental problems, urinary tract infections, and other healthcare challenges.

“How Do I Get My Cat To Go to the Vet?”

For those of you who have dealt with a whirlwind of hissing and claws as soon as the cat carrier comes out, then you're already familiar with the challenges of a cat who is resistant to travel. So, how do you get your cat to go to the vet?

Well, it’s a delicate process that must be handled with equal parts care, patience, and strategy. Here are some tips to make your next trip to the vet a little easier

• Introduce the carrier early with treats. The sooner you get your cat familiar with the carrier, the better. A great way to do this is by leaving the carrier out in the open with a treat inside of it. Eventually, your cat will go in to investigate and claim the treat. Repeat this process a few times, and your cat will begin to associate the carrier with rewards. It should make getting them into it much easier.
• Take a few test runs. If you don’t want your cat to associate the carrier exclusively with trips to the veterinarian, take them on some test runs in the carrier to other places like the grocery store or the gas station. Or, just take them for a quick spin in the car around the block.
• Choose a carrier that’s the right size. You want the carrier to be big enough so your cat can turn around but not so big that they can’t get their bearings. A sales associate at a pet store can help you pick out the right kind if you need assistance.
• Pick a carrier that features multiple doors. This makes the experience far less stressful for the cat and far easier for you to get them in and out of the carrier.
• Make it cozy. . Add a blanket or towel inside the carrier to make your cat feel more comfortable and keep them from slipping around on the inside. You can also try spritzing the blanket or towel with a synthetic cat pheromone that will help alleviate their anxiety.
• Cover the carrier with a blanket or towel. This should help make your cat feel safe and secure while they travel. If it has the opposite effect, feel free to remove it immediately.

“How Do I Select a Vet for My Cat?”

Your vet should be a combination of experience, quality, and convenience. That means they should have plenty of great customer reviews, a track record of working with cats, and a location that is close to home. Most people kick things off by asking friends and family for recommendations or with a Google search using the phrase “veterinarian near me” or something to that effect.

This is also an excellent time to start thinking about a pet health insurance plan for your cat. Similar to health insurance for humans, the plan ensures that your cat gets the healthcare services they need while offsetting some of the cost. It’s an especially good idea if you have an outdoor cat who is more exposed to risk, injury, and disease. Still, unexpected illnesses and injuries can arise for any cat, and pet insurance can help you financially prepare for those surprise visits to the vet.