Pet Health Library
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Cats vocalize to communicate. Vocalizing can be problematic when it interferes with people’s sleep. Often, the behavior develops due to unintentional reinforcement. Since vocalization can also reflect underlying illness, particularly if it is a new behavior, both a medical exam and a behavioral work-up are needed. Providing adequate social and environmental enrichment while discontinuing reinforcement can resolve the problem.
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Cat bites can be dangerous both to other animals and to humans. All cats carry bacteria in their mouths that can cause tissue infections in bite wounds. These bites may lead to serious conditions such as cellulitis and/or septicemia. Immediately wash your wound and contact a physician as soon as possible to have the wound properly treated.
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The Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA) is committed to excellence in healthcare for cats. FelineVMA launched the Cat Friendly Practice program in 2012. To earn the Cat Friendly Practice designation, a veterinary practice must show that they have implemented feline-friendly standards of care. A Cat Friendly Practice is committed to making your cat’s healthcare delivery more pleasant for both you and your cat.
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A cat-only veterinary practice is typically designed and built with cat comfort in mind. Feline Practices are especially interested in delivering medical care to cats in ways that help the cat (and her human family members) experience as little stress as possible. Cats need to see their veterinarians for preventive care. It is recommended that cats be seen by their veterinarian twice per. You can make regular veterinary assessment as easy as possible for your cat by seeking out a cat only veterinary practice.
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Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by the bacteria Bartonella that is transmitted by cat fleas and other biting insects. Cats act as reservoirs for the bacteria. Humans are exposed to the bacteria through flea feces that contaminate skin lesions or eyes. Signs include fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes, and lesions on the eye and skin. The disease is usually self-limiting; however, some people will require antibiotics, especially if they are immunocompromised. Tests are available for diagnosis in humans as well as in cats. The most important ways you can prevent CSD include strict flea control, good hygiene, keeping your cat indoors, and keeping your cat's nails trimmed.
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Treats are a great way to bond with your cat but are an additional source of calories that must be considered within the overall diet. Treats should be no more than10% of your cat's daily calorie intake and, in greater quantities, can create a nutritional imbalance. Consider choosing lower calorie treats for your cat to avoid exceeding the 10% rule.
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A cataract is an increase in opacity of the eye’s lens. Any type of inflammation or damage to the lens can lead to a cataract. The clinical signs of cataracts vary depending on the size of the cataract; many cataracts are asymptomatic at the time they are diagnosed during a veterinary exam. The ideal treatment for cataracts is surgery, but not all cats are candidates for surgical treatment. In these cases, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to prevent glaucoma and other secondary complications of cataracts.
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Inside the eye is a lens that focuses light on the back of the eye, or retina. Vision occurs at the retina. The structure of the eye is similar to a camera, which has a lens to focus light on the film. A cloudy or opaque lens is called a cataract.
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There are many potential hazards for cats who live outdoors. This handout discusses some hazards including wild animals, infections, parasites, toxins, and cars, among others. Fenced yards do not protect cats nor keep them contained to the yard. If you feel your cat must go outdoors, train them to wear a leash and harness and/or create a safe outdoor cat enclosure and always monitor them when they are outdoors.
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Periodontal disease is the most common problem affecting cats of all age groups. The importance of daily dental home care cannot be overemphasized. Nutrition can contribute to preventing periodontal disease and gingivitis.
