Cat Health Care

If you are a first time cat owner, you need to be aware of some common health problems with cats. All animals are subject to health problem and cats are no different. With all breeds of cats most health problems can be medically treated or prevented.

Parasites and worms can be a recurring problem for all cats, however they are also easily treated.. Tapeworms, roundworms or hookworms are usually the most common that infect cats. Symptoms that indicate your cat may have parasites are, weight loss, fleas or white specks in their stools. Your cat should be seen by a veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms, although they can be treated, worms can be fatal if they are left untreated.

Some cats are subject to hair balls, although rare, a hairball can get into a cat's intestinal tract and create a blockage. Usually cats can cough and expel a hairball without any problems. If your cat becomes constipated, begins to cough a lot or is not eating properly it may indicate there is a blockage, which can be very serious and life threatening if left untreated. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take the cat to a vet immediately.

To help prevent hairballs you can brush your cat two or three times a week to remove loose hair. There are also certain foods that are designed to control hairballs.

Urinary tract infection is common with male cats that have not been neutered, however female cats can also have this problem. If your cat suddenly stops using a litter box, or its urine suddenly has a very strong odor it may indicate your cat has a urinary tract infection and should be seen by a vet.

Feline leukemia was once the major cause of death in cats. A vaccine has been developed to prevent the virus. Your cat should be vaccinated before it is exposed to feline leukemia which is very contagious. Cats with this virus should be kept away from other cats.

To keep cats healthy they should be taken to the vet for regular check ups, and kept up to date on vaccinations. Some health problems can not be avoided, however if you keep your cat indoors it will protect him from most health problems. If your cat is an outdoor cat, regular visits to the vet will keep him healthy.

Cats are an inexpensive to care for and make wonderful pets, with a little care to keep them healthy they will offer you love and affection for many years.