Cat health

T.S. Eliot wrote in The Ad-dressing of Cats that "A cat is not a dog." While most of us agree, there are more than just the obvious reasons why cats are unique creatures in their own right.

Within lithe, compact bodies full of powerful muscles, cats are incredibly resourceful and famously self-reliant. Their ability to live as solitary creatures underscores just how well they can hide illness or disease. Often times it looks like a cat has suddenly developed a limp when, in actuality, a fight wound has been present for a couple of days.

Wounds in cats from fights and bites are common presenting complaints in veterinary clinics. The bacteria, Pasteurella multocida is the main culprit when it comes to painful abscesses. Infections are common because cat skin heals quickly, trapping the nasty bacteria beneath the skin. This can lead to fever, lack of appetite, limping or an obvious warm swelling. Antibiotics can usually take care of this infection. Always take cat scratches as seriously as Ted Nugent told you to back in the seventies!

Upper respiratory diseases are also common in the domesticated cat population. The feline herpesvirus, also known as the gift that keeps on giving, is endemic, meaning it is everywhere. Many kittens are born with it and, generally, it doesn't cause much worry. Humans and horses also have their own version of the herpesvirus which normally lives dormant in our lymph nodes. During times of stress the herpes virus recrudesces, or comes back out to join the party. This can lead to runny red eyes, nasal discharge and sneezing in cats. Antibiotics do not work against viruses so many times supportive care, proper vaccination and education are how we best manage this condition. Humans can not catch herpesvirus from their cats.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found in animal flesh and organs. The organic acid, taurine is found in these tissues and cats must have this in their diet. This is why it is dangerous to feed dog food exclusively to your cat. It is recommended that you feed a good quality commercial diet because they are nutritionally complete and balanced.

Be careful with plants when you have cats – Easter Lilies and Philodendrons are two toxic offenders to curious kitties.

Urinary wellbeing is very important to your cat's health and longevity. Most cats are fastidious about their litter box hygiene. In multi-cat households, the rule of thumb is to have one litter box per cat, plus one more. Clean the litter boxes at least daily to promote good bathroom habits and try to avoid overly fragranced litters. When Kitty chooses inappropriate elimination it is usually because they are trying to tell us something (it gets your attention, doesn't it?!) This is absolutely a good time to seek veterinary care.

Cats make exceptional, intelligent companions for people of all ages. If you have questions about your cat's health or even before bringing a new cat into the house, call your regular veterinarian and schedule a visit.