Page 240 - The Complete Cat Breed Book (DK)

238 HEAL TH AND BREEDING

HEALTH

Your greatest responsibility as an owner is your cat’s health.
You must ensure that your pet has regular checkups and
vaccinations, and be able to recognize any changes in his body
or behavior that may require a trip to the vet. Educate yourself
about common disorders and learn how to care for your cat
Keep your cat free
when he is ill, recovering from surgery, or in an emergency. of itchy parasites

Finding and visiting a vet
Before bringing a cat home, look for a veterinary practice
that will be willing to treat your cat. Your cat breeder may be
able to recommend one. Alternatively, ask friends with cats
or consult a local cat club or rescue center. Going to the vet
is stressful for most cats, because they encounter strangers
and other animals. Even a well-socialized cat will feel uneasy
during the visit. Always take your cat in a carrier, with its
door kept facing you in the waiting room so that he can see
you. Speak to him soothingly and reward him with
treats afterward.
If you buy a pedigree kitten, he should already have had
his first vaccinations before you take him home at about 12
weeks old. Your breeder will give you the kitten’s vaccination
certificate, which you should show the vet on your initial
visit. One of your earliest visits may be to have your cat
neutered, generally from four months of age.

EAR EXAMINATION
Your vet will examine the ears for mites during a routine checkup. Ear
mites are highly contagious and commonly affect kittens and outdoor
cats. They leave gritty debris in the ear canal that causes skin irritation.

Annual checkups
After his first visits, your cat will need a checkup annually,
possibly twice a year in old age. The vet will assess his
condition by checking his ears, eyes, teeth, gums, heartbeat,
breathing, and weight, and feel him all over for abnormalities.
A booster vaccination may be given. Your vet may clip your
INITIAL VACCINATION cat’s claws if necessary, especially if he is a house cat or
Cats should have their first vaccinations against infectious diseases,
such as cat flu and feline leukemia, at between 9 and 12 weeks of age, elderly. The vet will also inspect your cat for parasites and give
followed by annual boosters for the rest of their lives. you advice on administering worming and flea treatments.