Ren's Corner

Feline Health Care

Let me first say that I am no veterinarian. The information that you will find here is what I have found from various sources and things that I have learned over the years from taking care of and working with cats. NEVER solely depend on what you find here Always consult your vet before attempting any treatment. If you have any questions or if there is something that you would like to see talked about here, feel free to e mail me at webmaster@renblackcat.com

Before making a firm decision to get a cat do bear the following in mind. A cat is a life-long under-taking and commitment. It can live for twenty years or more as long as most children stay in the parental nest. Most think seriously before starting a family and the adoption of a cat should also be considered very carefully. That cute, fluffy kitten bought on the spur of the moment will soon grow into an adult. It will need annual inoculations, spaying or neutering at about six months, and possible veterinary treatment for illness. There is no free medical care for cats; some charities will help out in deserving cases, but basically think of your veterinary surgeon as a fairly expensive private doctor

Choosing a Veterinarian is Something you need to do right away. Don't wait until your cat is sick or has an accident. You never know when your cat will need Med attention so having a Vet before hand is a real good idea. Try to find a vet that has good knowledge of cats and is up to date on the various illnesses and ailments that can affect the feline. Find someone who is close by. Ask other cat owners what vet they use. Some cat clubs have local advisers who may be able to help you but, personal recommendations are best.

The best time to introduce a cat into your home is when you have plenty of time to spare, and there are few other people about. When you first bring your new cat or kitten home, it is best to keep him in a small area such as your bathroom or bedroom for the first few days. It will be less overwhelming for him. Show him where his litter box is right away as he may want to use it. The stress of travel can play havoc on the bowels. If you have other pets, they will get to know your new kitty through the door. Before you introduce them take your new kitty to the vet and have him tested for FELV/FIV.It is very important when you get a new pet to take it to the vet for a check up and shots right away. Also give your other pets lots of extra love and attention. This will help them to be more forgiving of the new arrival When you first introduce your new kitty to your other pets, never leave them alone. It's a good idea to have a squirt bottle full of water handy just in case any scuffles break out

To help insure your cats heath and well being, it is very important to feed him a well balanced diet. When becoming a cat owner you have taken on the responsibility for its welfare, and correct feeding is very important. I highly recommend feeding your cat Science Diet. This you can get from your Vet or local pet or feed store. It is equally important to have clean fresh water available at all times.

Be constant with what you feed your feline friend. Constantly changing foods can cause intestinal problems, diarrhea and finicky ness. Never give your cat milk or fish. Milk is hard on the digestive system and fish when given in large amounts and often, can cause health problems as well.

Specialty foods and even table scraps can be given as treats on occasion but, not until after the base diet is eaten. Cooked (never raw) meats, cottage cheese, cooked vegetables and yogurt are foods with strong taste appeal. Treats should not exceed 20 percent of a cat's total daily ration. Uncooked meat or fish should not be given because of the danger of transmitting disease. Cats like to have their food served at room temperature. Give your cat something to chew on once a week to promote good oral hygiene. A large knuckle bone is good especially if a little meat is on it. Avoid long bones like chicken or ribs that can splinter.