March 28 is National Respect Your Cat Day. You’re probably thinking, “Well, my cat demands my respect every day!” However, when it comes to honoring your cat, there are several things you need to know in order to guarantee your cat gets to live each of his nine lives. Below are seven areas on which to brush up, so you can make sure you are holding your cat in highest regard.
Remember flea and heartworm treatments.
As the weather gets warmer, and you and/or your cat are in and out more often, there is a risk of fleas or mosquitoes (carrying infective heartworm larvae) entering your home. Make sure to use a preventative medicine to safeguard your cat from these pests. See PetMD’s post, Heartworm Disease in Cats for more information on the prevention and treatment.
Examine and brush teeth.
Schedule regular cleanings You have dental cleanings twice a year, why shouldn’t your pet? Aim for prophylactic dental procedures yearly and care for your pet's teeth at home. PetPartners' Wellness Plan can also help you stay on top of your pet’s dental health. Check out the Wellness Care and Prevention coverage to learn more.
Supervise when outdoors.
If your cat is outside unattended, he may wander off, dart across the road, or become frightened. Make sure to read our post, 7 Spring Safety Dangers to Consider, for tips such as monitoring your cat around new plants, and recognizing allergies. Consider building your cat a catio for a safer way to allow him to enjoy the outdoors!
Plan regular vet visits.
Your cat cannot tell you if he isn’t feeling well, and cats can be good at concealing pain or illness. In the post, 8 Things You Should Never Do To Your Cat, Dr. Brad LeVora of Little Seneca Animal Hospital in Germantown, MD points out, “At the very least, you’ll have a baseline for comparison if any problems crop up.”
Exercise care when handling.
Cats need plenty of TLC, but cat moms and dads should make sure to handle their cat gently, and never push or shove him in frustration. Your cat is also more likely to respond to your wishes when you handle him with care.
Crate on car rides.
A friend once told me about a move across the country that she and her husband made. They attempted to let their cat have the run of the car when they were traveling. Halfway to their destination, when their cat was darting through the car and getting under the gas pedal, they had to pull over and put the cat in his crate. It is dangerous to you and to your cat to allow him the run of the car. Even though crating may seem restricting, your cat will be safer, tucked securely into his crate.
Take care of hairballs.
Read our post, What Side of Your Cat Has the Most Fur for tips on preventing and eliminating hairballs. One of our best tips? Invest in the Furminator. According to Dr. Patty Khuly, VMD, the Furminator has the power to save lives, sanity, and marriages.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to your cat! Follow our guidelines and your cat will feel admired, loved, and best of all, respected.
