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Preventative Health Care for Cats

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Preventative Health Care for Cats
Posted on July 25, 2025 in Caring for your pet, cat, News

Want to learn more about your cat’s preventative health care?
Preventative care is essential for your cat’s health and well-being. By taking appropriate preventative measures tailored to your cat’s breed, age, lifestyle, and travel habits, you can help extend their lifespan, improve their quality of life, and potentially reduce future veterinary costs.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of healthy cat care:

Vaccines

Vaccines, often called “shots,” prevent diseases by providing immunity. This immunity can either completely clear the disease upon exposure or significantly lessen clinical signs and illness if contracted.

Most vaccines require a booster 3-6 weeks after the initial dose because the initial immunity is short-lived. For kittens, whose immune systems are still developing, some vaccines need to be boostered every three weeks from 6 weeks of age until they are 4 months old. Your veterinarian will provide a specific vaccine plan and schedule for your kitten.

General Care for Cats

Rabies Vaccine: This vaccine is required by law for all cats annually, although a 3-year vaccine is also available. It’s typically first given around 4 months of age. Rabies is a deadly neurological virus that can be spread to people and other animals through bites, and there is no treatment once contracted. Failure to vaccinate for rabies can result in significant penalties, including mandatory relinquishment, quarantine, or euthanasia of your pet, as well as financial penalties for not registering and certifying your pet’s vaccine with the county. While rabies cases have decreased due to vaccines, the virus still exists in unvaccinated pets and wildlife, including raccoons, opossums, bats, and feral cat populations. Florida has seen hundreds of positive cases in cats, dozens in dogs, thousands in raccoons, and human deaths from rabies in the past 20 years. Additionally, over 2,000 people have required treatment due to possible rabies exposure.

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP): Rhinotracheitis: Caused by Feline Herpesvirus, this is a very common and incurable respiratory disease in cats, often leading to lifelong intermittent symptoms. Clinical signs include sneezing, eye and nose discharge, eye discomfort, and squinting. Advanced cases can cause dehydration and loss of appetite as cats rely heavily on their sense of smell for eating. It spreads easily through airborne respiratory secretions and direct contact with infected cats or contaminated objects. Unvaccinated, very young, and very old cats are most susceptible.

Calicivirus: Another common infectious viral respiratory disease that can cause severe oral pain, mouth sores, and ulcers. It spreads through direct contact with infected cats or contaminated objects like food dishes. This virus is highly resistant to disinfectants and can persist in the environment for extended periods. Unvaccinated and inadequately vaccinated cats of all ages are at risk.

Panleukopenia: A severe, highly infectious, and often fatal viral disease that significantly decreases white blood cells, compromising the body’s defense against disease. It can lead to secondary infections and severe gastrointestinal and nervous system issues. This virus also persists in the environment and spreads through direct contact with infected cats or microscopic viral particles. Unvaccinated and inadequately vaccinated cats of all ages are at risk.
It’s important to note that your indoor cat can still contract these viruses, as they can live as microscopic particles in the environment (dirt, soil, grass) for extended periods. You can inadvertently track these viruses into your home on your clothes or shoes. This combination vaccine should be started around 6 weeks of age, boostered every three weeks until 4 months of age, and then given annually throughout your cat’s life.

Heartworm Disease Testing and Prevention

Heartworm disease is a life-threatening illness transmitted by mosquitoes; a single bite from an infected mosquito can transmit the disease. Larvae travel through the bloodstream to the heart, where they mature, reproduce, and produce microfilaria (baby heartworms). Adult heartworms clog heart and lung vessels, leading to heart, lung, or liver failure. Common signs in cats include lethargy and not eating, though some may cough. Some cats show no signs but die suddenly. A blood test diagnoses heartworms, but it’s not a routine screening for cats unless the disease is suspected.

Prevention is crucial, even for indoor cats, as mosquitoes can easily enter homes. While eliminating standing water helps reduce mosquito populations, 100% prevention isn’t possible. Prevention is especially vital for cats because there’s no treatment for feline heartworm disease.

Heartworm preventatives for cats come in oral (e.g., Heartgard) or topical (e.g., Revolution Plus, which also protects against fleas and certain intestinal parasites) forms and must be given every 30 days.

Flea Prevention

Fleas are a year-round threat in Florida. Even if you don’t see them, they could be present. Some cats are flea allergic and can have severe skin reactions from just one bite. By the time you notice fleas, there are likely millions of eggs in your home waiting to hatch. Flea cocoons can survive in the environment for over a year, and nothing kills fleas inside them, making infestations difficult to eradicate.

Fleas also transmit diseases like bloodborne parasites and bacteria, and can lead to anemia from blood loss, sometimes requiring emergency care and blood transfusions. Even indoor cats are at risk; fleas can enter through cracks under doors or on your shoes, socks, or pants. They prefer animals over humans, so you might not even realize they’re feeding on your pet. They live in carpets, cracks in tile and wood floors, and furniture folds. Treating the environment often requires multiple exterminator visits and home treatments, and some chemicals can pose risks to humans and animals.

Prevention is key! Prescription-strength preventatives from a veterinarian are most effective, as many over-the-counter products are insufficient and can irritate your cat’s skin. Never use dog flea preventatives on cats, as they can be deadly. Flea baths and some flea collars are also ineffective and potentially irritating. Recommended preventatives include the combination flea and heartworm medication Revolution Plus.

Fecal Parasite Testing (Microscopic Testing)

This test should be done every six months to screen for gastrointestinal parasites. Parasites typically reside in the intestinal tract and pass microscopic eggs into feces, which can survive in the environment (dirt, soil, grass, household surfaces) for extended periods. Common intestinal parasites include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, coccidia, and giardia. While most heartworm preventatives protect against some parasites, not all do, making routine testing important.

Even indoor cats can be exposed, as microscopic eggs can be carried into your home on shoes or present in potted plant soil. These parasites can cause diarrhea, vomiting, malnutrition, and weight loss, and most can be transmitted to people, especially children, pregnant individuals, and those who are immunocompromised. They also spread rapidly between pets in a household and are difficult to eliminate from the environment, so early detection and prevention are crucial\!

Urinalysis (Urine Testing)

Annual urine testing for cats is important for screening common urinary problems like crystalluria (urinary crystals). These microscopic mineral particles are like sand and can irritate the bladder lining. They can be present for long periods, causing discomfort without obvious clinical signs. Urinalysis also screens for other urinary diseases, such as infections and inflammation.

A severe outcome of urinary crystals is urinary tract obstruction, where crystals block the urethra, preventing urination. This is a life-threatening, painful condition that can lead to sudden illness, extreme lethargy, vomiting, bladder rupture, and potentially fatal heart arrhythmias. Most cats won’t show signs until the condition is advanced. Male cats are more susceptible to obstruction due to their smaller urethra, but females can also be affected. Detecting urinary crystals early helps prevent disease or obstruction; special diets or supplements can dissolve or prevent them.

Oral Care

Dental disease is prevalent in pets because they can’t care for their oral health like humans do. Oral bacteria release enzymes that cause gum inflammation, breakdown of periodontal ligaments (leading to loose teeth), and tooth surface decay, which can result in fractured teeth. These bacteria can also cause tooth root abscesses/infections and spread to the bloodstream, colonizing organs like heart valves, kidneys, and the liver. A recent study linked dental disease to kidney disease and kidney failure in cats.

Periodontal disease is very painful, though pets often hide their discomfort by chewing on the opposite side of their mouth or not chewing at all. The best at-home oral care is daily tooth brushing with cat-formulated enzymatic toothpaste. Cat-formulated dental treats, mouth rinses, drinking water additives, and special oral health foods can also be beneficial.

Diet

Food is a powerful tool for health. Many prescription diets are available to support various medical issues, including heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and obesity. Obesity is the most common disease in feline patients. Maintaining a healthy weight prevents conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Your veterinarian will help you create a personalized dietary plan. Feeding a high-quality diet with essential nutrients, tailored to your pet’s life stage and health needs, is crucial for optimal health. Portion control and minimizing or eliminating treats and table foods are also important.

Pet Health Insurance

We believe your cat deserves the highest quality of care, and pet insurance can help make that affordable. Trupanion is our hospital’s preferred insurance plan. While it doesn’t cover preventative care, it covers 90% of veterinary bills for illness or injury after your deductible. This coverage helps with unexpected costs for lab tests, surgery, or medications, allowing you to focus on your pet’s recovery.

Questions or need to schedule an appointment? Contact us today! We’re here to help!

          
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You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 3 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 3 indicates that your cat is thin.

What to do next: While thin cats are generally at lower risk for serious health issues compared to overweight cats, being underweight can lead to decreased muscle mass, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system. Unless there is an underlying reason for your cat’s thinness, the situation can often be improved with simple lifestyle adjustments, such as:

  • Offering a palatable diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding small, frequent meals
  • Stimulating the appetite by warming the food or introducing toppers
  • Minimizing stress
  • Weighing your cat monthly
  • Re-checking your cat's BCS at home
  • Staying alert to other health changes (especially continued weight loss and appetite loss)

Your cat's BCS provides valuable insights into their overall health and helps us spot potential issues early. While a BCS of 3 isn’t an immediate cause for concern, it’s a sign that small adjustments to their feeding and care routine could have a positive impact on their health.

Questions? We can help. Let’s work together to score a win for your cat's health.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 6 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 6 indicates that your cat is borderline overweight.

What to do next: Simple daily actions can help prevent your cat from becoming overweight. Even a few extra ounces or pounds can significantly impact their health, increasing the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and kidney disease.

Restore your cat's future health by:

  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Reducing stress by minimizing household changes and maintaining a routine
  • Decreasing boredom with interactive toys, social interaction, and cat furniture
  • Separating pets during meal time (Consider a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households)
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking your cat's BCS at home

Your cat's BCS is like a warning light for their future health. Taking proactive steps to address your cat’s weight can minimize future complications and help ensure they stay fit, agile, and healthy.

Curious about other ways to improve your cat’s BCS and overall well-being? Get in touch. Let’s work together to score a win for their health.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 4-5 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. On a scale of 1 to 9, with 1 being very thin and 9 being obese, your dog's score means they are at their ideal weight for optimal health and well-being!

What to do next: First, give your dog a scratch behind the ears to celebrate your success! Your commitment to their preventive health—regular vet visits, balanced nutrition, and consistent exercise—is truly paying off. But don’t relax just yet—maintaining a healthy BCS takes ongoing effort throughout your dog's life, including:

  • Feeding portioned meals
  • Avoiding high-calorie treats, diets, and people food
  • Staying active with regular exercise
  • Re-checking your pet’s BCS monthly at home
  • Staying on top of routine care (exams, screening tests) to ensure early detection of health changes

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health. Right now, we like what we see—and feel! But remember, supporting your dog's lifelong health is a team effort. By continuing the great work you’re doing and partnering with us, we can help ensure they stay healthy for years to come.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 7-8 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 7-8 indicates that your cat is overweight.

What to do next: Weight issues are a common cause of many feline health problems, some of which can shorten a cat's life. Fortunately, with your dedication and our support, your cat can achieve better health, mobility, and an ideal body weight.

Rather than asking your cat to participate in daily exercise, feline weight loss emphasizes targeted nutrition and stress reduction to help them shed those unwanted pounds. This entails:

  • Offering a palatable weight-management diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Using a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households to ensure each cat consumes their veterinarian-recommended portion
  • Minimizing stress by maintaining a stable routine
  • Decreasing boredom through positive interactions such as interactive toys, food puzzles, cat-friendly furniture, and social bonding
  • Promoting movement with motion-activated food toys and puzzles
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home

Overweight cats not only face long-term health risks but can also suffer from discomfort and emotional stress. Intentional, veterinary-supervised changes can help ensure your cat’s fitness, comfort, and overall well-being for years to come. Let’s work together to score a win for your cat's health.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 3 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 3 indicates that your dog is thin.

What to do next: Although a lean body condition is healthier than being overweight, thinness can indicate muscle loss, health changes, or a lack of appropriate nutrition. Here are a few ways to help your dog reach their optimal weight and health:

  • Follow any recommendations given by your vet (these are personalized for your dog's unique needs)
  • Gradually transition your dog to a calorie-dense diet
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home
  • Provide regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle
  • Monitor them for other health changes (appetite loss, vomiting, unusual stools, fatigue, etc.)

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and can help identify potential issues early. While a BCS of 3 isn't a serious concern, it suggests that your dog may benefit from adjustments to their diet and exercise routine. Please continue to monitor your dog for any other health changes—including difficulty gaining weight—as these could indicate the need for further evaluation. Let’s work together to help your dog achieve better health, so you can make the most of every moment together.

Now that’s a perfect score.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 9 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 9 indicates that your dog is obese (weighing 20% or more above their ideal weight).

What to do next: Dogs with obesity are in significant danger of many life-altering health conditions, including arthritis, cardiovascular problems, kidney disease, and cancer. Reducing your dog's weight and improving their body condition is critical to restoring their comfort, mobility, health, and longevity.

Take action today to protect your dog's  health by:

  • Following any veterinarian’s recommendations (these are personalized to your dog's unique needs)
  • Using a measuring cup to portion meals
  • Removing uneaten food after 20 minutes
  • Limiting treats to low-calorie fruits or vegetables
  • Exercising daily for at least 30 minutes (leash walks are a great way to start)
  • Weigh them  monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health. In your dog's case, it’s a signal for immediate action.

By following the steps above and your veterinarian’s recommendations, getting your dog back to a healthy weight is possible, but it will take time and effort. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Let’s work together to score a WIN for Sydney’s health.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be 1–2 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 1 to 2 indicates that your cat is very thin, at least 20% below their ideal weight. This may be caused by poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

What to do next: Since a BCS of 1 to 2 can indicate potential health concerns, your cat's veterinarian may suggest blood work or other tests.

In addition to following any plan outlined by your cat's veterinarian, the following steps may help them achieve their ideal weight and BCS:

  • Offering a palatable diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding small, frequent meals
  • Warming the food or introducing toppers
  • Feeding pets separately
  • Minimizing stress
  • Weighing them  monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home
  • Watching for other concerning signs, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or changes in litter box habits, as these may require prompt veterinary care.

Just like your cat's vital signs, their BCS offers important insight into their overall health. While a BCS of 1 to 2 can be concerning, we’ll work together to help your cat safely achieve their optimal weight and vitality.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 6 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 6 indicates that your dog is borderline overweight.

What to do next: With just a few pounds separating your dog from being overweight, a BCS of 6 is a clear call to action! Excess weight can increase their risk for serious health problems, such as arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer, and studies have shown that it can shorten their lifespan.

Here are a few ways to help Gigi reach their ideal weight:

  • Follow any recommendations given by your veterinarian (these are personalized for your dog's unique needs!)
  • Use a measuring cup to portion meals
  • Don’t leave food out all day
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home
  • Provide regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and and can help identify potential issues early. While a BCS of 6 isn't dangerous, it does raise their risk for many life-altering conditions and signals a need for change.

Let’s work together to help your dog achieve a better BCS and overall wellness, so you can make the most of every moment together.

Now that’s a perfect score!

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 7-8 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 7 to 8 indicates that your dog is overweight.

What to do next: Your dog's weight is putting them at an increased risk for many serious conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Overweight dogs are also clinically shown to have a shorter lifespan and a reduced quality of life.

Thankfully, it’s not too late to get back on track! Here are some simple steps to help your dog achieve a better BCS and a healthier life:

Here are a few ways to help them reach their ideal weight:

  • Reduce meal portions by 10% to 20%
  • Use a measuring cup for accuracy
  • Switch to a weight management diet
  • Swap treats for low-calorie fruits and veggies
  • Increase daily walks and playtime
  • Use a food-dispensing toy instead of a bowl to encourage movement
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and quality of life. The actions you take in the days, weeks, and months ahead can help them slim down, restore their well-being, and allow you both to make the most of every moment together.

Let’s work together to score a WIN for your dog's health and happiness.

Now that’s a perfect score!

You assessed their body condition score (BCS) to be to be 9 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 9 indicates that your cat is obese (20% or more over their ideal body weight).

What to do next: Cats with obesity are in a health crisis. Excess weight strains their joints, leading to painful and decreased mobility. In addition, abundant fat tissue increases their risk for life-altering diseases like diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.

Let their BCS be a turning point in their health.

With simple lifestyle changes and guided support from our team, we can restore your cat's quality of life and help them lose those unnecessary pounds.

We’ll focus on nutrition and stress reduction to create positive results. This includes:

  • Offering a palatable weight-management diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Using a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households to ensure each cat consumes their veterinarian-recommended portion
  • Minimizing stress in your cat’s environment
  • Decreasing boredom through positive interactions (interactive toys, food puzzles, cat-friendly furniture, and social bonding)
  • Encouraging healthy movement and exploration (motion-activated toys, food puzzles, ramps to perches, scratching posts, cat tunnels)
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home

Your cat’s body condition is a key factor in their health and longevity. Together, we can score a victory by helping them lose weight and reclaim their health, happiness, and mobility.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be 4-5 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. On a scale of 1–9, with 1 being very thin and 9 being obese, this score means they are at their ideal weight for optimal health and well-being!

What to do next: First, give your cat a head bump or a scratch to celebrate your success! Your dedication to their overall health—through regular vet visits, balanced and portion-controlled nutrition, a low-stress environment, and plenty of physical and mental activity—is truly paying off.

But don’t relax just yet—maintaining your cat’s healthy BCS will take ongoing effort throughout their lifetime. Keep up the good work by:

  • Minimizing stress
  • Creating a mentally and physically stimulating environment
  • Satisfying your cat’s social needs with one-on-one time
  • Encouraging movement with interactive toys, perches, and furniture
  • Feeding measured portions of a veterinarian-recommended, high quality, palatable diet
  • Checking your cat’s BCS monthly at home
  • Staying on top of routine veterinary care

Just like your cat's vital signs, their BCS gives us valuable insight into their overall health. Right now, we like what we see—and feel! But remember, supporting your cat's lifelong health is a team effort. By continuing the great work you’re doing and partnering with us, we can help ensure they stay healthy for years to come.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be 1–2 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 1 to 2 indicates that your dog is very thin, at least 20% below their ideal weight. This may be caused by poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

What to do next: Since a BCS of 1 to 2 can indicate potential health concerns, your dog's veterinarian may suggest  blood work or other tests.

If no issues are found, the following steps may help your dog achieve their ideal weight and BCS:

  • Gradually transitioning them to a calorie-dense diet
  • Feeding more frequent meals
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home
  • Providing regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle
  • Monitoring them for other health changes (appetite loss, vomiting, unusual stools, fatigue, etc.)

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS offers important insight into their overall health and can serve as an early warning that something may be wrong. While a BCS of 1 to 2 can be concerning, please know that your pet's well-being is our top priority. Let’s work together to help your pet pal achieve better health, so you can make the most of every moment together.