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Applying eye ointments to your cat's eye(s) can be a challenging or easy task. The proper administration of eye medications is essential for your cat's prompt recovery. It is important to use the medication as directed for the full duration and contact your veterinarian if you have problems. The tips and instructions in this handout may make administering your cat's eye ointment easier.
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Applying topical medications to your pet can sometimes be a challenge. Creams, ointments, and lotions are for external use only. It is important to prevent your cat from licking and swallowing any of these external preparations as they may contain ingredients that could be harmful if swallowed. Most topical preparations work better if they are gently massaged in for a few moments after application. It is always a good idea to get someone to help hold your cat, especially when applying medications on a sensitive or painful area. If you still have trouble keeping your pet from licking the medication, please contact your veterinarian to get your cat fitted for an Elizabethan collar.
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There are many non-pharmaceutical products designed to improve a pet's behavior. There is little oversight for many of these products, and the label “natural” does not guarantee a product is safe to use in dogs and cats. Ask your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter product for your pet.
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When traveling, you may need to board your pet at a kennel or veterinary clinic. Ask for references to find a boarding facility and visit it before having your pet stay there. A short stay before a longer trip can help your pet to settle in more easily. Be sure to leave emergency contact details for you and your veterinarian.
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Body condition scoring is a way to check if a pet is too skinny, too heavy, or just right. It allows a pet owner to determine how much fat their pet has compared to the muscles and bones. This handout outlines how to assess your pet's body condition score by look and feel.
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Booster vaccines are follow-up vaccines given after your cat first receives a vaccine. Protection from an initial vaccine series can fade, so boosters help keep immunity at a safe level by reminding the immune system how to fight a disease.
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This handout summarizes breeding and queening (giving birth) in cats and the normal estrus (heat cycle). Pregnancy care and labor care are outlined, along with signs to watch for to determine if your cat is experiencing delivery complications.
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Transitioning to a new home is a big step for even the most playful and outgoing kitten. Slowly introduce your kitten to your home, family members, and other cats or dogs in the home. Begin training your kitten as soon as they are comfortable with all the members of your household.
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Bromethalin is a common rodenticide. Cats are commonly poisoned when they find loose bait placed for rodent control. Clinical signs can develop as soon as a few hours after exposure and as long as seven days after exposure. There is no antidote for bromethalin, so early decontamination is extremely important.
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Roughly 50% to 80% of all cats over the age of four have periodontal disease (infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth). Brushing three times a week is the minimum recommendation to help remove plaque and prevent tartar accumulation. This handout outlines how to safely and successfully brush your cat's teeth.