Cats are very easy to care for as compared to other pets. They keep themselves clean by licking their fur daily (i.e., the cat bath) and don’t need to be walked. However, these pets are also prone to a number of feline diseases that, if identified early, can keep kitty healthy. Here’s how.
Signs of Feline Disease
When kitty isn’t feeling well, he or she makes it clear through various changes in cat behavior. For example, the pet may hide in a dark closet for long periods of time during the day; strain to urinate; or poop in various places around the room in a short period of time. Perhaps the owner finds a tiny squirmy flea in the fur, or is shocked upon seeing live squirming worms in the pet’s feces.
Cats can also contract medical problems common to humans such as diabetes, arthritis, and allergies. However, they are more prone to certain pet-specific diseases including feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), urinary stones, kidney problems, and feline leukemia (FeLV). So how does one prevent these diseases in order to keep kitty happy and healthy?
How to Avoid Cat Health Problems
Pet owners need to keep in mind several tips for keeping kitty healthy and vigorous. The first item on the list is proper feeding. By nature, cats like to eat fresh meat, not animal by-products. Look on food labels and make sure real meat is the first or second ingredient. Moisture is also important in food – purchase kibbles with at least 10 percent moisture.
Food type is important as well; purchase an indoor (weight control) formula for indoor felines, urinary tract formula for cats with a history of urinary tract infections, and kitten formula for the little ones. The battle between wet food and dry food rages on – some say wet food is better for the pet because of higher moisture levels. But give him or her plenty of water in various places throughout the home, and kitty should be adequately hydrated.
Litter also plays a significant role in feline health. Avoid cheaper brands of litter as they kick up more dust when the pet is in the litterbox, which kitty inhales and licks off fur. Another battle rages on between clumping clay litter and traditional (non-clumping) types with some claiming the clumping ingredient (calcium bentonite) is a carcinogen. Try natural or organic litters such as corn, wheat, newspaper, or pine pellets. These are healthier for the pet and won’t kick up dust.
Play with the cat often to keep him or her physically active. Otherwise a cycle will begin where the pet gains weight, becomes less active, then gains even more weight. An occasional bath in the kitchen sink won’t hurt either, washing away dirt and residue left behind from litter dust. To keep a cat healthy and happy, be aware of behavioral changes, choose the right food, place water on the floor throughout the home, and select a safe type of litter.
Daniel Gansle - Daniel J. Gansle is the author of 2012: Day of Reckoning, graduate of Anthropological Studies and expert in ancient Mayan culture.
