February is National Cat Health Month! One thing cat owners should know is that kitties try to mask signs of illness. This can make it hard to tell when Fluffy is sick. How do you know if your feline friend is healthy? A Crown Point, IN vet lists some things to look for below.
Great Checkup
First and foremost, the best way to monitor Fluffy’s health is to take her to the vet regularly. Most kitties should come in once a year, though your vet may recommend more frequent visits for kittens, senior cats, and felines with health issues.
Curiosity
Our feline pals are notoriously inquisitive, if not downright nosy. Fluffy may follow you from room to room as you go about your day-to-day routines. She’ll also immediately investigate anything you bring home … especially boxes.
Bright Eyes
Fluffy’s eyes should be clear and bright. You also shouldn’t see any discharge or gunk, and should only spot her third eyelid briefly, when she closes or opens her eyes. Of course, you can also tell a lot from your pet’s facial expression. Happy cats often have a smug, satisfied look.
Clean Fur
Healthy cats are very dedicated to their beauty rituals, and will carefully groom themselves every day. If your feline buddy’s fur is soft and clean, you’re doing something right!
Mischief
Kitties are adorable when they are feeling frisky. If Fluffy is playful and mischievous, she’s likely pretty content. Even senior cats like to unleash their inner kittens now and then. Healthy pets are happy pets!
Good Appetite
Does your furry friend wake you up in the morning to demand breakfast right meow? If so, that’s a great sign. Healthy cats have healthy appetites!
No Litterbox Issues
Fluffy should use her litterbox regularly, and should not strain or eliminate outside it. Also, pay attention to what you find in the litterbox. You should never see anything unusual, like blood.
Interactions
Kitties all have their own unique purrsonalities. Some are cuddly, while some are aloof. And, while some are furry little chatterboxes, others just don’t have much to say. However, healthy cats tend to be interactive, and will respond to stimuli, such as being spoken to. If Fluffy’s character shines through, it’s a good sign.
Please contact us, your Crown Point, IN vet clinic, for all your kitty’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
