August 22nd is National Get Your Cat to the Vet Day—a much-needed reminder for all cat owners to schedule that all-important annual checkup. Cats are masters of disguise when it comes to hiding illness or pain, which is why routine veterinary visits are essential for maintaining their health and catching problems early.
Cats Need Regular Checkups—Even if They “Seem Fine”
It’s a common misconception that indoor cats or cats that appear healthy don’t need regular veterinary care. But just like dogs—and humans—cats can develop silent conditions like kidney disease, dental issues, arthritis, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes. These often progress without noticeable symptoms until they’re advanced. An annual exam gives your vet the opportunity to:
- Perform a full physical examination
- Check for dental disease (which affects the majority of adult cats)
- Monitor weight changes (a key indicator of underlying illness)
- Review your cat’s diet, behavior, and environment
- Ensure vaccines are up to date
- Catch health issues early—before they become serious or expensive
Preventive Care is Proactive Care
Think of annual exams as a way to prevent problems instead of just reacting to them. During a yearly visit, your veterinarian can establish a health baseline for your cat and watch for subtle changes over time. This might include running bloodwork to monitor organ function, urine tests to check for infections or kidney issues, and screening for parasites like fleas, ticks, or intestinal worms.
Senior Cats Need Even Closer Attention
As cats age, their healthcare needs increase. For cats over the age of 7, we often recommend biannual exams to monitor for age-related conditions like arthritis, hyperthyroidism, high blood pressure, and cancer. Many of these diseases are manageable with early detection and treatment, which means more happy, healthy years with your feline friend.
Stress-Free Vet Visits are Possible
If getting your cat to the vet feels like a nightmare, you’re not alone—but there are solutions! Consider:
- Leaving the carrier out year-round so your cat gets used to it
- Using pheromone sprays like Feliway in the carrier before travel
- Bringing familiar bedding or toys for comfort
- Scheduling exams during quieter times of day if your cat is anxious
Your veterinary team is there to help make the visit as smooth and low-stress as possible—for both you and your cat.
Celebrate National Get Your Cat to the Vet Day with a Healthy Checkup
Use August 22nd as a reminder to give your cat the care they deserve. Schedule that wellness exam, ask questions, and get peace of mind knowing you’re doing everything you can to keep your feline family member happy and healthy.
Need to schedule your cat’s annual checkup?
Call us today to book an appointment or ask about ways we can help reduce stress for you and your cat. Let’s work together to keep them thriving for years to come.
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