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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