Regular Check Ups Can Keep Your Cat Well: It is that Simple

The simple reason why you take your cat on regular checkups is to keep her healthy and well. It is that simple. Yet, most cat owners only take their cats in to see their veterinarian when there is a problem.

Estimates state that there are 82 million cat owners and 72 million dog owners in America. These estimates also state that on average dog owners will take their animals to the veterinarians twice as often as a cat owner will. This includes the regular wellness or routine visits.

Why? Why do dog owners take their animals to the veterinarian more often than cat owners? Could it be due to the fact that cat owners think that cats are just stronger and do need to be cared for by a veterinarian? Could it be the cost issue?

The bottom line is that cats do need to see their veterinarians on a routine basis. These visits will allow your vet the chance to bond a bit with your cat. It will also give your cat the chance to know your vet a bit, as well as his staff. This will be crucial if she ever becomes sick because the cat will all ready be a little more comfortable with him. Most of all, it will give the vet the opportunity to check your cat over from head to tail to make sure that she is not showing any signs of sickness.

During these visits a vet will usually:

• Check your pet for fleas
• Check your pets weight
• Check your pets breathing
• Check your pet's ears for earmites
• Check your pets genital area for worms
• Look at your pet's gums inside her mouth
• Feel her body, looking for sores or bumps under the skin
• Your pet will also ask questions about your pet's diet
• Your vet will also make sure your pet's vaccines are all up to date

If your cat is healthy this visit should only have to be made once a year. Of course, if any problem arises, you can easily make an appointment with your veterinarian or call his office to discuss the matter.

Remember though the key to making sure your cat stays healthy is to work with your veterinarian. This means you should have a veterinarian you know and trust. If the relationship is not a good one, it may be time to look for a new veterinarian to work for you and your pet. See article: Fire Your Vet If This Happens.

Sources:

pets.webmd