How Often Do You Take A Cat To The Vet?
Cats seem quite independent; hence it is common to assume that they can fare well by themselves and without any assistance from their owners. And this mindset is the main reason dogs receive more regular veterinary care than cats, in most cases.
But even though felines appear to be self-sufficient, they still need their owners to make sound decisions on their behalf, especially as it concerns their health and other issues that affect their well-being.
Therefore, if your cat is to stay healthy, then regular check-ups are a necessity for your kitty. However, the question that remains is, how often should your cat get veterinary care and attention?
How Often to Bring Cat to Vet
The frequency for routine vet visits for your cat will depend on the life stage and health status of your furry pal.
How often should you take your kitten to the vet (birth to 1 year)
Ideally, you schedule an appointment with your vet for an initial check-up before taking your new kitten home. During this first visit, you should also discuss the appropriate first-year schedule for your kitty.
However, if you were unable to bring your new kitten to the vet before taking her home, you should ensure to take a trip to the vet by the time she is 6-8 weeks of age. Usually, during this visit, kittens receive a complete examination, flea prevention treatment, vaccinations, and deworming. During subsequent visits at 12 and 16 weeks of age, your kitty will receive booster shots to promote immunity and well-being. It is also around this time that you should begin discussions and plan for a scheduled visit to have your kitten neutered or spayed. And this procedure usually happens around six months of age.
Adult Cats (1 to 7 years)
Ideally, adult cats should visit the vet once every year for routine check-ups, vaccine shots, and dental cleanings. And though there are arguments that indoor cats do not require regular veterinary visits and care because they are not exposed to the many dangers of infections and illnesses as their outdoor counterparts. These routine visits are essential to keep an eye on your cat and to eliminate and treat any pain and discomfort your feline may be hiding. More so, regular vaccinations are imperative to protect your kitty against any health threats and issues.
Senior Cats (From 7 years)
By the time your cat reaches up to seven years of age, you should begin talks with your vet about scheduling an appropriate vet care routine for your furry friend. Usually, between the ages of 7 and 10, most cats require twice-a-year vet visits. And after age 10, vet visits will become more frequent, up to three times yearly, and mainly if there are any age-induced health conditions like arthritis, obesity, kidney issues, or liver problems, the cat is battling.
General Cases
It does not matter the age of the cat; once your kitty shows any signs of illness or changes in behavior, it is appropriate to visit the vet. Below are some signs of discomfort and distress in your cat that should prompt a trip to the vet include;
- Lethargy/weakness
- Limping or changes in the mode of movement
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in urine or stool
- Increased anti-social behavior/avoidance of people
Final Thoughts
Regardless of age or whether the cat is an indoor or outdoor cat, regular vet visits are essential to ensure optimal health conditions and general well-being of your cat.
Therefore, you must search for and find a vet with whom you can build an on-going relationship to provide care and appropriate check-ups schedule that suits the needs of your furry pal.
