As a cat owner, you may think that as long as your feline friend seems healthy, there’s no real reason to take them to the vet. After all, they’re sleeping comfortably, eating well, and generally just lounging around. However, the truth is that just because your cat seems to be healthy on the outside, doesn’t mean that there aren’t underlying health issues that can cause problems down the road. That’s why it’s important to understand why taking your cat to the vet is a crucial part of keeping them healthy.
Cats are amazing at being “normal” when they aren’t.
Cats are experts at hiding illness and pain. They are known to continue with their routine activities even when they are severely ill, which makes it incredibly difficult for owners to detect any discrepancies in their behavior. Annual visits to the vet can help detect underlying health issues that may not be visible to you or your cat.
For many diseases the earliest symptoms are appetite or behavioral changes.
Many illnesses and diseases in cats are asymptomatic until they are extremely advanced. As both hunter and prey, cats are really good at hiding their symptoms and it can be incredibly difficult for cat owners to detect small changes that could potentially be life saving. Annual vet exams can serve as a way of screening your cat for illnesses before they become more significant.
Treating disease is easier when catching them early which usually means they are less expensive to treat when there are fewer symptoms (quantity and quality) and quality of life has not declined.
When health issues are detected early, they can be addressed before they become more serious. This not only leads to a quicker recovery but is also less expensive than if the disease is allowed to progress. Additionally, it can help maintain your cat’s quality of life.
Quality of life is much more positive and manageable when doing preventative exams. Preventative exams are incredibly important in keeping your cat healthy. They can help identify health issues early on, enabling you to begin treatment before any symptoms worsen. This, in turn, makes it easier for your cat to recover and lead a healthier, happier, and longer life.
As a responsible cat owner, it’s important to ensure that your cat receives the best possible care. Regular visits to the vet can go a long way in identifying and treating health issues before they become more severe. Additionally, these visits are vital in maintaining the quality of life of your feline friend. If you have any concerns about your cat’s health or simply want to schedule an exam, contact The Cat Hospital of Kamloops and book an appointment today. Remember – a little prevention goes a long way!
Questions?
If you have any questions about home wound care for cats, call us, the only veterinary cat clinic in Kamloops that offers a full list of services to keep your feline friend healthy. We provide consultations, wellness exams, X-rays and imaging, soft tissue surgery, dental care, diagnostics, spaying and neutering services for cats. We love cats, and we know you do too.
Learn more about cat health here: EDUCATION