Health-Care

Kittens and cats are very independent, self-sufficient animals. However, they heavily rely on their owners for good health-care in order for them to remain in good health and life a long, happy, illness-free life. There are several ways to help your cat remain in optimum health.

Insurance:
It is a good idea to take out cat insurance as soon as you purchase your kitten as vet fees unfortunately can escalate and end up costing you a lot of money. [BreederChoice Insurance] offers new kitten owners 12 weeks FREE cat insurance when they take out insurance within the first 48 hours of collecting their kitten from the breeders.

Immunisations:
See hints and tips on [vaccinations].

Worming:
Worming is crucial in cats just as much if not more than other domestic animals. As cats tend to roam and meet many other animals it is easily contracted and therefore needs to be prevented. A serious case of worms in young kittens can cause anaemia and serious illness. As kittens and cats also mix with children it is important to remember that worms can pass from cat to child and therefore prevention is better than the cure. It is advisable to follow a worming programme so that you do not miss a dosage. Your vet will advise the best programme to suit you and your cat. However usually kittens are wormed every three weeks until they are six months old. After this cats should be wormed every three months for the rest of their lives.

Prevention of Fleas:
Fleas are a common pest in dogs and cats. Fleas can be very uncomfortable for cats as they make the cat feel very itchy. Aside from this there are also serious consequences as it can lead to anaemia or even a severe allergic skin reaction. Fleas carry the risk of a tape-worm infection which if passed onto humans can be very dangerous. There are many products available on the market to treat fleas and your vet will advise of the best one to use. There are many lotions, powders, shampoos and even flea collars on the market. Some vets may suggest using a 'spot-on' treatment which is squeezed onto the cat's skin and will control fleas for between four and eight weeks after application.

Grooming:
Grooming your cat regularly will help de-stress your kitten and cat and will allow for you to check for any abnormalities such as skin irritations, cuts and injury. It is imperative to brush your cat at least once a week (especially long-haired cats) as it removes dead hairs and can also eliminate problems with hair balls. Not only will grooming help the condition of the cat but it is a bonding process between owner and pet.

Things to watch out for:
As you get to know your kitten/cat you will realise when they are acting out of character and where something may be wrong. These are just a few things to look out for. If you see signs of any of the following, contact your vet and have them checked out.
Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea in cats can be caused by something that they have eaten. Be wary of giving your cat milk as it is actually a myth that they like it and can lead to stomach upsets. Other causes can be the result of bacterial infection, viruses or parasites. If your cat develops diarrhoea then fast your cat for 24 hours and it should clear up. If it does not then be sure to contact your vet.
Vomiting: Do not panic if your cat vomits occasionally as cats are prone to eating things on their travels that might make them sick. However if vomiting persists it is worth taking your cat to the vets to check what is wrong. It could be a sign of hairballs, parasites or even more serious illness. If the vomiting is accompanied by diarrhoea or if there is blood in the vomit then consult your vet immediately.
Sneezing: Sneezing is generally due to the cat contracting the common cat cold. There is no medication to treat this so keep your cat warm and indoors and try and encourage them to drink plenty of water and try and tempt them to eat. Their appetite may decrease so offer smelly foods which may encourage them to eat something. Putting your cat in a steamy room such as the bathroom after a hot shower may help to clear the mucus in their chests. The cold can last for up to two weeks so keep an eye on them and if it deteriorates take the cat to the vets.
Ear and Eye Infections: If your cat develops either a runny discharge or if the ears give off a strange odour be sure to seek veterinary help as soon as possible.
Dental Problems: If your cat has bad breath, dis-coloured teeth or is not eating it's food then consult your vet. The vet may need to examine your cat's teeth and gums. It is advisable to get your cat's teeth checked regularly especially older cats.