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Cats + Preventive Care & Wellness

  • Caffeine is a chemical that can be toxic to pets. Many foods and drinks contain caffeine, including coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, diet pills, gum, coffee grounds, over-the-counter medications, energy boosting products, and even some herbal supplements. Early intervention is key to successful treatment.

  • Cats and dogs can become intoxicated by cannabis in various ways, most commonly by eating things that include cannabis (e.g., baked goods, candies, chocolate bars and chips) or by ingesting cannabis directly in any form (second-hand smoke). A small amount of cannabis is all it takes to cause toxicity in cats and dogs.

  • Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced from burning fossil fuels. It causes poisoning by depriving the body of oxygen. If carbon monoxide builds up in your home, garage, or other enclosed space it can be extremely dangerous for you, your family, and your cat.

  • Modern vaccines save lives and prevent disease. They are extremely effective and safe. Pets sometimes experience mild side effects following vaccination, but rarely do they require veterinary medical attention. Monitor your pet and report any concerns to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

  • Sometimes, the location of your cat's wound or the amount of skin lost can prevent surgical closure or bandaging. This handout describes general guidelines for proper care of your cat's open wound at home; your veterinarian can provide you with specific instructions.

  • When your cat is being treated for an illness, it is important that you follow your veterinarian's advice and instructions precisely. This article outlines feeding, how to give medications, and monitoring advice in caring for your sick cat.

  • Contenido en español actualizado.
    Translated from the original English article Neutering in Cats

  • Training your cat in advance for travel is ideal. Positive reinforcement training helps build good associations and makes travel safer and easier. Veterinary advice is sometimes needed for cats who become ill or are frightened during crate training or travel.

  • Indoor cats can life long healthy lives, but many indoor cats are sedentary. Activity is important for a cat's mental and physical health. It is important to enrich the environment of indoor cats by providing outlets for interactive social play, exercise, and mental stimulation. Cats also need quiet places to sleep; placing a perch or cat tree in the main living area is recommended for most cats.

  • Cats that are kept for companionship are typically neutered (castrated), unless they are intended to be used as breeding stock. Neutering prevents accidental or indiscriminate breeding and reduces the frequency of undesirable sexual behaviors, such as mounting and marking.