Health

Regularly checking your cat for early warning signs of underlying health problems is crucial for their well-being. Cats are masters at hiding illnesses and may withdraw when feeling unwell. By being vigilant and aware of the tell-tale signs of common health issues, you can catch potential problems early and seek veterinary care promptly. Consider completing a monthly health checklist at home to monitor your cat's overall condition. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.

Humans can be sensitive to various allergens, and when the cumulative effect of these allergens exceeds an individual's allergen threshold, it can trigger a sensitivity reaction. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of people with heightened sensitivity to substances such as plant pollen, certain foods, drugs, and others. Surprisingly, at a global level, it has been found that as many as 1 in 5 adults are sensitized to cat allergens.

There is a common belief that some breeds of cats, especially hairless breeds, are 'hypoallergenic.' The popular belief is that 'hypoallergenic' means 'allergen-free' – but what it technically means is 'less' allergenic.

Shock, in a medical context, is a serious condition that signifies inadequate blood circulation and can be potentially fatal. It is not just emotional distress. When a cat experiences shock, there is a disruption in the body's ability to deliver oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. This can occur due to severe trauma, internal bleeding, heart conditions, allergic reactions, or other underlying health issues. If you suspect that your cat is in shock, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian without delay. They will be able to assess the situation and provide the necessary treatment.

As a proud owner of a 7-month-old kitten, ensuring their health and well-being is paramount. Kittens are playful and curious, but they can also be vulnerable to various health issues. By conducting regular health checks and being aware of potential illnesses, you can provide your kitten with a happy and healthy life.

Kittens are adorable bundles of energy and curiosity, but they are also susceptible to various health issues, many of which can be difficult to detect. Kittens have a natural instinct to hide their discomfort, making it essential for pet owners to closely monitor their furry companions for early signs of illness. Recognizing these signs can significantly impact your kitten's health and well-being, ensuring they grow into a healthy, happy adult cat.

When Dr Joanne Righetti found her cat Leo sitting quietly at the bottom of the garden one Sunday morning, she knew something was wrong. She scooped him up, and he flopped in her arms. She put him down, and he fell over, breathing heavily. Dr Jo didn't even stop to check for ticks as she was familiar with spotting the symptoms of ticks; she just knew. Leo was rushed to a veterinary hospital where they found and removed two Paralysis Ticks that were buried deep under his mane of hair. The vet admitted him for medical care, and he had his entire coat shaved off just to make sure no other deadly, blood-sucking parasites were lurking underneath. Leo was lucky - he remained in the hospital for three days and made a full recovery.

It is quite common for pets to gain a little extra weight in winter as they spend more time sleeping, conserving energy, and eating treats. Of the approximately 2.3 million cats in Australia, over 41% are classified as overweight or obese. This is concerning, as carrying all this extra weight around can have serious health implications for your cat such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and heat stress. It can even shorten your cat’s lifespan.

Probiotics for cats offer more than just relief for digestive issues; they provide various benefits that contribute to overall feline health.

Human allergists often recommend for cat allergen-sensitive owners to avoid or reduce the allergen contact—which means constant house cleaning, bathing the cat, or medications that ease symptoms for people with cat allergen sensitivity.

As a responsible cat owner, keeping your kitten up to date with vaccinations is crucial for their health. Vaccinations protect against various diseases and are often required for boarding at catteries or when traveling abroad.

Before you pick up your new kitten and take it home, make sure that they have had their first vaccination. This first vaccination is an incredibly important part to any new kitten’s life as it provides the foundation for a strong immune system that can protect them against disease.