We love our furry dog ​​very much, and the least we wish is that he is unwell. He is a member of the family and as such we take care of him. We care about your well-being, which is why we often ask ourselves how to prevent my cat from getting sick.
That is a question that does not have an easy or unique answer, since it is impossible to protect him from everything (and in fact, this would be counterproductive since we would end up with a cat that is too dependent on us). Let's focus on real preventative measures and warning signs that help you react in time.
Keep it dewormed
The cat is prone to parasites, both internal and external. There are many of them that can infect our friend, causing him to contract all kinds of diseases. To avoid it, it must be treated with an antiparasitic that eliminates and protects the feline from fleas, ticks, mites and internal parasites such as worms.
In animal supply stores you will find pills, collars and pipettes. Typically they repel parasites for a month, but can last less (3 weeks) or even longer (3 months). Consult your veterinarian for the exact guidelines and adjust the dose to your weight. to ensure effectiveness and safety.
External and internal parasites: what to watch out for and how to act
- Fleas: They cause itching, dermatitis, and transmit parasites; their droppings are small black dots on the fur. Breaks its cycle (egg-larva-pupa-adult) treating the cat and the environment (beds, carpets, car, sofas).
- Ticks: less common in cats, but dangerous. Check the neck, ears, and armpits after going outside. Use specific tweezers to remove them. and applies preventive.
- Ear mites: cause otitis with dark, dry earwax. They are resolved with antiparasitic pipettes and cleaning indicated by the veterinarian.
- Intestinal worms (roundworms and hookworms): cause diarrhea, anemia or weight loss. Deworm every 2-3 months, even if your cat doesn't go outside, because we can bring eggs into the house with our shoes.
Feed him quality food
Although it is known that there are many cats that can live for several years being fed inexpensive feed, the ideal is to give him food that has a lot of animal protein and no cerealsThey're more expensive feeds (a 7kg bag costs an average of 40 euros depending on the brand), but your dog's health will thank you for it. Consider including wet food to improve hydration, especially in cats prone to urinary problems.
Food and drink: practical tips to avoid problems
- Always clean and accessible water in metal or ceramic containers (plastic can impart an unpleasant taste). Wide, shallow bowls prevent whisker stress.
- Weight control: Being overweight promotes diabetes and joint disorders. Adjust your rations and offer daily game to stimulate exercise.
- Digestion: Occasional regurgitation of hairballs may be normal; persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or blood require an immediate visit to the veterinarian.
- Normal stools: firm, uniform brown, and free of mucus; persistent changes, constipation, or straining during bowel movements are warning signs.
Take him to the vet
One way to keep him from getting sick is to take him to the vet to get checked out. These reviews must be annual since they will allow the professional to detect any possible symptoms that may indicate that our friend's immune system is beginning to fight some disease.
Likewise, it is highly recommended to take him to have the necessary vaccinationsThey won't protect you. 98 or 99%, but yes, 98 or 99%, which is a lot.
Vaccination and preventive testing
- Essential vaccines: panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), and calicivirus; rabies may be mandatory or recommended depending on the area.
- Other measures: test of feline leukemia (FeLV) y feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), especially in cats that go out or live with others.
- Dental and geriatric check-ups: Cleanings, tartar control, and checkups in old age detect problems early.
How to know if a cat is sick?
- Attitude: apathy, isolation, unexpected aggression or less play.
- Face: clean ears without bad smell; light eyes no watering or redness; moist nose with no crusting or discharge.
- Boca: Bad breath, tartar or red gums indicate dental disease; brush with specific feline paste.
- Skin and fur: shiny coat, with no bald patches or dandruff. Intense scratching or black spots suggest fleas.
- Water and urine consumption: Increased thirst and urination may be associated with kidney, thyroid or diabetesBlood in urine or obstruction in males is urgent.
At home you can take some indicative measures: pulse rate of approximately 120 bpm (in the groin) and temperature between 38 and 39 ºC with a lubricated rectal thermometer and a handle. If you notice abnormal readings or have any doubts, consult your veterinarian.
Common diseases that require control
- Chronic renal failure: increased thirst and urination, vomiting, and weight loss; managed with diet and medication.
- HyperthyroidismIn older adults, weight loss with appetite; treatment with drugs or radioactive iodine.
- Diabetes mellitus: associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle; diet and medication control it.
- FeLV and FIV: They reduce immune defenses and predispose to infections and neoplasia; prevention involves testing, vaccination (FeLV), and avoiding fights.
- Feline respiratory complex (rhinotracheitis and calicivirus): sneezing, fever, oral ulcers; vaccination reduces the risk.
Shell it or sterilize it
A neutered or spayed cat is a cat that has a much better chance of living many yearsA "whole" cat will fight with other cats during mating season, and in doing so, may contract a disease.
In addition to avoiding escapes, accidents and unwanted litters, decreases the transmission of FeLV/FIV by reducing fights and bites, and in females reduces the risk of breast tumorsAdjust diet and activity after surgery to prevent obesity.
Give him a lot of love
Affection is perhaps the most important thing. It may not directly prevent the cat from getting sick, but it does it will make me much happier. And that, in the end, is what matters most.
Reduces stress with scratching posts, hiding places, heights, interactive play, and consistent routines. Stressed cats may urinate outside the litter box or become irritable.
Keep a clean home: a sanitized litter box, food and water bowls washed daily, and clean accessories. Avoid toxins and provide quiet resting areas.
Safe indoor lifeLimiting outings reduces contagion; if you do go out, do so with a harness or in controlled spaces. Safe socializing improves well-being.
I hope these tips help you keep your cat's health strong for a long, long time. With regular deworming, adequate food, vaccinations up to date and observing early signs, you will have more tools to detect any problems in time and act with your veterinarian.