Making Cat Health Job One
Means Staying Informed

Looking out for your cat's health means keeping on top of everything from the basics, such as choosing the right premium cat food, to the more complex issues such as vaccination schedules, cat behavior problems, and on and on.

Begin here with these pages...

Then use my recommendations on cat books, magazines, and other resources to answer your questions, and give you alternatives.

Go right to the guide on Cat Illness Symptoms.

Go right to the cat health problems page.

View the index of Feline Health Articles and Information, which contains a listing of all of the cat health related articles on this site, including this one on more than 70 cat illness warning signs and symptoms.

One problem though... your cat can't tell you or your vet what, if anything is wrong with her.

This makes it critical that you be informed, as well as observant. You need to keep an eye on your cat and pay attention to anything that might seem abnormal. Anything out of the ordinary could indicate a possible cat health issue.

Pay close attention to your cat's routines. Get familiar with your cat's habits, such as eating, drinking, sleeping, and litter box use. Your cat's behavior, as well, needs to be closely watched. For some tips, see this cat symptoms page, or click here for a complete ebook on the subject.

You should report any sudden major change in cat behavior or habits to your vet as soon as possible. For example, a cat that is usually social that becomes aloof, or a normally active cat that begins sleeping more than usual may have a health problem.

A sudden change in grooming habits may indicate either a behavior problem, or a health issue that needs attention.

Sudden changes in eating and drinking or litter box usage patterns could also be an indication that there is a problem. Any change in behavior that has no apparent cause should be suspect, as it can mean a cat health alert.

Remember, your first and best source for information on cat medical problems and advice is always your veterinarian. Use the resources here to supplement regular cat care provided by your vet.

I'd like to point out that there are several major areas of responsibility that you, as a cat owner, need to take care of in order to ensure proper cat health...

Cat Living Environment

and that's a problem. An indoor cat needs a clean, cat safe home, with adequate room to play, sleep, eat, and use the litter box. Proper litter box and food and water placement, and proper sleeping areas are all essential for your cat. Making your home cat safe includes removing items that may harm your cat, such as poisonous plants.

Cat Nutrition

Some cat owners are also feeding their cats nutritional supplements. While some have claimed that adding vitamin C to your cat's diet is beneficial, experts have said that this is typically not a good idea. There are also vitamin enriched treats and anti-hair ball foods that you can add to your cat's diet. In addition, there are some supplement makers that claim to have products that boost the immune system of your cat.

Cat Care

General cat care includes everything from regular visits to the vet for examination and shots, to daily grooming. It also includes giving your cat the proper attention and stimulation she needs.

We hear about people with cat behavior problems all the time. Some cats scratch up the furniture or the carpet, others chew on wires, and still others are compulsive diggers.

Many of these behavior problems can be avoided or corrected by simply paying attention to your cat's needs. In order for your kitty to be well adjusted, it is important that you provide the right mix of attention, affection, and stimulation.

On the other hand, if a behavior problem becomes extreme, you may need to involve your veterinarian or even pet psychologists. Your cat's behavior problem may just be due to illness. Your vet can rule out a physical cause, and the pet psychologist can work with you and your cat on behavior modification.

If you suspect your cat has a disease, you should plan a visit to your veterinarian as soon as possible. For some information on common cat diseases, you can check the guide for cat illness symptoms .

Cat Breeds

Breeders work to rid the breed of bad traits when possible, but this is not a quick process. In addition, some breeders will cross breed with other breeds. This is not a bad thing, and certain crosses are allowable. Sometimes, however, this introduces a bad trait from one breed into another. Be careful of this and make sure you check the lineage of any cat you plan to adopt.

Further Reading on Cat Health Information and Feline Diseases

A listing of the primary cat health articles on this site.

Articles on Cats and Health

Articles on cats and health.

7 Questions to Ask Your Vet

Many people don't communicate well with their vets. Here is a way to start an exchange of information.

More Questions to Ask Your Vet

Here's a way to continue that conversation with your vet.

Cat Parasites

Parasites are a common threat to cat health. Here's a look at the parasites that might use your cat for a host.

Cat Ring Worm

Ringworm can sometimes go away on its own, but your cat may need treatment. If you've been in contact with an infected cat, you might too!

Cat Ring Worm Symptom

The symptoms of ringworm are fairly easy to spot, but you should know what to look for.

Cat Scratch Fever

Cat scratch fever can be difficult to diagnose, and it can be contracted from a cat showing no symptoms.

Cat Scratch Fever Symptoms

The classic cat scratch fever symptoms may begin with skin lesions, and painful swollen lymph nodes. Your cat, however, will show no signs of illness.

Feline Acne

Cats get acne just like people do, but the causes are not exactly known. Symptoms may include swelling of the chin and around the lips, and lesions on the chin and lower lip.

Feline Acne Treatment

Treatment for feline acne includes the use of antiseptics and a topical formula containing benzoyl peroxide. Do not, however, use products formulated for humans as the products for cats are less concentrated. As with any cat health issue, consult your veterinarian for the proper treatment of feline acne.

Pet Insurance | Does it Pay Off?

Pet insurance is an idea that has been catching on over the last few years as pet owners get hit with expensive and unexpected veterinary bills. In many cases, it can be a good idea.

Cat Insurance Plans and Companies

Here's a description of some of the top cat insurance plans.

Different Cat Breeds

Different cat breeds may have specific health issues, as some problems are more common in some than others.

Ear Mites in Cats

Another pesky parasite to annoy your pet, ear mites can take a while to eradicate. Avoid contact with infected pets, and get all your pets examined and treated at once.

Pet Medication

Buying pet medication online can save you money.

Treatment of Cat Worms

The treatment of cat worms starts with a visit to your veterinarian and the proper diagnosis.

Worms in Cats

Worms can be a mild to severe health problem for cats, with some showing no signs of illness. In kittens and weakened adult cats, worms can do severe damage.

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Veterinary Information for Cats and Cat Owners

Veterinary Secrets for Pet Owners