Having your pet spayed (ovariohysterectomy) or neutered (castrated) is an inexpensive and realistic method of pet population control. The number of unwanted adult and young animals that are euthanized each year in the United States is astounding. Aside from the pet overpopulation problem, neutering a male animal and spaying a female helps prevent, and even eliminates, many medical problems.
A non-spayed adult female cat is a kitten machine. Female cats have their first estrous cycles around seven to nine months of age. During the springtime, some kittens can actually go into heat when they are five to seven months old.
Male cats are almost impossible to keep as pets unless they are neutered. When they reach sexual maturity (around seven to nine months of age—even earlier for some cats), their kitten lifestyle dramatically changes. A non-neutered adult male cat becomes extremely territorial. His life predominately consists of patrolling and defending his territory. Even though his immediate territory may consist of the building and grounds where he lives, he may also consider the female cat that lives two blocks away as his territory. He defends his territory against intrusion by other animals, particularly other cats.
Health Exams
The history
Your veterinarian will ask you questions about the health history of your cat. Be sure to discuss any unusual behavior with your veterinarian.
Medical records will be consulted if your cat has been a regular patient. Notes will be made about your cat's diet, water consumption and on a variety of daily behavior patterns that relate to your cat's health.
Temperature, pulse, respiration rate and body weight will be noted, then your veterinarian will begin the physical examination from nose to tail.
A wet or dry nose doesn't mean good health
The nose is not the health barometer that some people think it is, but it is a good place to start. Your veterinarian will check your pet's nose for abnormal discharge and changes in color, texture, moisture or shape.
Cat's ears invite infection
You'll probably be asked if your cat has been shaking its head or scratching at its ears. Have you noticed any odor from the ears? Your pet’s deep, curved ear canals provide protection for the inner ear, but these canals also provide a snug home for parasites, infections and foreign objects. A visual check will be made.
Eyes: these are the windows to your pet's state of health
Many conditions, such as anemia and jaundice, often are discovered through eye examinations. Often, cataracts are some of the first noticeable symptoms of diabetes. Your veterinarian also may observe the inner structures of the eye. Problems such as glaucoma, retinal defects or local inflammation may be noted. Injuries, ulcers and lacerations of the eye can also be detected.
If you have any questions concerning your pets' health, please do not hesitate to contact us. Remember, your veterinarian and the friendly staff members at All Friends Animal Hospital are your pets' best friends and your best source of information about your pet.
Your pet will receive an oral exam
Oral hygiene is extremely important. Your veterinarian will check your cat’s gums, teeth, tongue and palate for abnormalities, tumors and infection. A dental examination is important for detecting gingivitis, periodontal disease and infected teeth. Teeth cleaning and polishing may be recommended at this time.
Listening to the heart and lungs
Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to listen to your pet's heart and lungs. If any irregularities are noted, additional tests may be necessary. Early heart disease and respiratory problems are often recognized during a regular health exam.
Reproduction
Your pet's reproductive system will be examined. Your veterinarian will probably explain that spaying or neutering provides many benefits beyond birth control.
Health is sometimes skin deep
The skin is the body's largest organ and a good indicator of your pet’s health. Your veterinarian will examine the condition of the skin and fur as a means of detecting other health problems.
Your cat will be checked for fleas, ticks, other external parasites, tumors and wounds.
Sense of touch
Your veterinarian will use hands and fingers to feel the abdomen. This sense of touch will help to assess the condition of internal organs and to detect tumors or other irregularities. The legs and feet of your cat will be checked. The condition of joints, muscles, skin, lymph nodes and hair also will be noted.
It's wise to immunize
Immunizing your pet against disease is one of the best tools of preventive medicine. Cats can be immunized against feline panleukopenia (distemper), rabies, feline rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and feline leukemia.
Health threats vary from city to city and even in various sections of cities; therefore, your veterinarian can tailor an immunization program for your cat based on local conditions and keep your pet protected with the latest vaccines.
