Promoting Your Cat’s Health

Keeping Your Cat Healthy

Cats can help keep you happy and healthy, and we know you want to return the favour. While good food and exercise go a long way toward achieving that goal, it’s important to understand the health problems your cat may be at risk for. Some of the most common health problems for cats have simple explanations, but a visit to your veterinarian is always the best way to confirm what’s really wrong and assure that your cat gets the best treatment possible.

Preventing Obesity for Your Cat

It may be simple to ignore your pet’s weight problem, but remember that it could shorten her lifespan, and make her days more laborious and less enjoyable. Obesity can also lead to other health problems, like diabetes, diminished immune function and digestive issues.

Helping Your Cat Lose Weight

If your cat has become overweight and you can no longer feel her ribs, it’s time to change her habits. Consider feeding your cat a lower-calorie cat food or a veterinary weight loss diet, and make sure she gets some kind of exercise during the day. Cut out table scraps completely, and make sure treats constitute no more than 10% of her daily caloric intake. For the best chance of successful weight loss, work with your veterinarian on making a comprehensive, customised plan for your cat.

GET YOUR CAT MOVING

It is quite common for pets to gain a little extra weight in winter as they spend more time sleeping, conserving energy and eating treats. However, this can be concerning, as carrying all this extra weight around can have serious health implications for your cat such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and heat stress. It can even shorten your cat’s lifespan.

Unfortunately, few owners know how to tell if their cat is overweight. A few easy hands-on and visual checks can help you be on the lookout for signs of obesity before serious health problems develop.

Keeping Your Cat's Teeth Healthy

Getting your kitten used to daily or at least twice-weekly teeth cleaning can help your kitten avoid painful dental disease later in life. Contact your Veterinarian for advice on how to begin teeth brushing with your kitten.

Dry, crunchy foods can also be helpful in keeping teeth clean. As the cat chews, particles from the dry food scrape against the teeth, acting like a toothbrush to help remove plaque.

Adult cats not used to teeth cleaning will often not tolerate it. If your cat refuses to allow you to clean his teeth, it’s okay to leave it to the professionals.

Does My Cat Need Supplements?

If your cat is eating a nutritionally complete and balanced diet, excess supplements are not necessary. However, some supplements may provide a benefit to cats with certain health issues. You should check with your veterinarian before providing supplements to your cat.