Page 44 - Complete Cat Care: How To Keep Your Cat Healthy and Happy
P. 44
Signs of good health
From the very first day, get to know your cat's usual physical condition
and normal behavior so that you recognize good health and can quickly
detect any signs of illness.
Appearance chirruping). Watch how he
and behavior interacts with you and your
Healthy behavior It is normal for a cat to be shy family—he should come to trust
at first, but as he gets used to you and be happy to see you,
■ Expression bright and alert you his personality will emerge. especially once he has realized
■ Runs and jumps freely In general, your cat should look that you provide the food.
■ Friendly or calm with people alert and happy, whether he Note how your cat eats and
■ Grooms self easily is naturally outgoing or more drinks—he should have a good
■ Eats and drinks normal amounts reserved. Note how he moves appetite and eat without any
■ Urinates and defecates normally (fast or leisurely) and what problem. Cats prefer to eat little and
42 sounds he makes (meowing, often. Because they get most of
Your cat's health ▷ Fit and healthy Ears clean and free
As well as looking physically
healthy, your cat should be alert
of excess wax
and move freely. He should groom
himself regularly and be calm or
friendly with you.
Nose cool and damp,
Body shape normal
for breed, well
with no discharge
covered but not fat
Eyes free of excess tears,
discharge, or crusting
Mouth clean, with intact Undertail area
teeth and healthy gums clean, with no
soreness or
discharge
Coat glossy, skin intact with
no damage or disease
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