9 Tips for Preventing Cat Health Problems

There are 10 ways to prevent cat health problems during the life of your cat. A good healthcare plan focuses on prevention and takes into consideration the whole animal. This means addressing the physical body as well as addressing psychological or emotional factors that have been shown to affect the physical body. 

1. Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is a central factor in a cat’s health. An improper diet can cause health problems such as urinary tract diseases, obesity and heart disease. The best food for cats consists mainly of lean animal protein and has a high moisture content. It’s important to avoid a high mineral content and to make sure that the food has mostly whole ingredients. It will help your cat to avoid foods that contain fillers, grains, corn and soy.

2. Clean Water

A cat should always have access to fresh water to help maintain the proper hydration in the body. The water should be in a dish that is washed daily and sterilized once a week. A glass or ceramic dish is preferable because when plastic gets damaged, bacteria can grow in the cracks or scratches.

3. Food Supplements

Several food supplements can help your cat’s health. Some believe that anti-oxidants are helpful in making sure that the cat gets all the proper nutrition. This is especially true for elderly cats or those who are not eating much on their own.

4. Exercise and Weight Control

Mild to moderate exercise can help your cat maintain mobility, the proper weight and a healthy heart and lungs. Even a cat with and injury or disability should get some movement under the guidance of a vet. Exercise also helps improve a cat’s disposition.

5. Managing Stress

Stress can contribute to a cat developing urinary tract problems as well as behavioral and litter box issues. It’s important for a cat to have territory that’s all his own, even if it’s just a windowsill or bed. A cat can get stressed from a dirty litter box or not having a quiet, clean place to go for eating, eliminating or resting.

6. Holistic Health

Some holistic and alternative health practices can help prevent diseases and physical problems. Chiropractic care for cats can help decrease stress and keep joints flexible. Acupuncture can help to stimulate the immune system and alleviate anxiety as well as addressing many other health problems.

7. Flea and Tick Control

Controlling fleas and ticks with a monthly topical medicine is very important for a cat’s skin and coat. These parasites not only cause discomfort but they can cause or exacerbate cat allergies.

8. Vaccinations

Sticking to a proper vaccination schedule can help prevent serious feline viruses such as Distemper, rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus and rabies, as well as some other serious illnesses.

9. Regular Veterinary Care

It’s important to take your cat in for a thorough check-up once every 6 months. This can help with early detection for cancer and other diseases that can be felt through a physical exam. Many vets will do screening blood and urine tests as well.

 

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