February is National Cat Health Month. You likely already know that most cats need to see their vet at least once a year for routine checkups, but you might not know that you can perform several easy cat wellness checks at home. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your furry family member healthy and happy from nose to tail.
- Bright eyes
Your cat’s eyes should be bright and clear with no cloudiness or discharge. Runny, weepy, or hazy eyes could indicate an infection or allergies, and your vet needs to be involved.
- Clean ears
Your cat’s ears are like little satellite dishes, moving around to catch the slightest whispers of sound. They help your cat communicate with you, too, and they’re just plain adorable. Check your cat’s ears periodically for buildup, discharge, debris, or inflammation that could indicate ear mites or infection. Any bad smells should also be evaluated by your cat’s vet as soon as possible.
- Teeth and gums
Dental health is easy to overlook in pets, but it’s just as important to their overall health as your dental health is to your wellbeing. Your cat’s gums should be pink and firm, and their teeth should be white and free from tartar buildup. Their breath shouldn’t be overly unpleasant, although it may have a strong fish-like odor. If your cat has any broken or missing teeth, let your vet know.
- Paws
Commonly known as “beans,” toe pads should have a clear, even color and no injuries or inflammation. Claws should be smooth and of a reasonable length. Claws that grow too long may curl back into the footpad. This is most common in senior cats or cats with special needs. If your cat’s claws are overly long, you can give them a trim or schedule grooming services at Cozy Cat Suites.
- Coat, skin, and body
Healthy cats have smooth, shiny fur. Part the fur across their body to check for new skin growths, discolorations, lumps, or bumps. As you check their skin, look for evidence of parasites: fleas, flea dirt, or ticks. Run your hands along your cat’s body to check for noticeable weight changes or any new soreness.
- Movement and mobility
Watch your cat walk, jump, and play. Does your cat favor a paw, wince when landing, or seem irritable when you’re petting them? All can indicate the presence of pain or inflammation and may warrant a call to the vet for further evaluation.
- Habits and behavior
Cats love routine, which is why any significant behavior changes can signal a cat health problem. If you notice a big change in appetite, water intake, mood, or litterbox habits, let their vet know. These may be the first or even only symptoms of illness you spot.
Cozy Cat Suites offers not just cat grooming but also cat boarding in a cozy, home-like environment. Cats enjoy spacious suites with cat-friendly furnishings, vertical climbing space, toys, scratchers, loungers, and even windows. Contact us to find out more about your cat's options or to schedule cat boarding before your next planned getaway.
