Health Checklist

Cats are prone to hide illness and pain. It is important to get any changes in behavior or health checked by a veterinarian to try and catch any problems as early as possible. If you answer “No” to any of these questions, it may be time for a veterinarian visit:

Not every cat is a candidate for shaving, whether a full body haircut like a Lion Cut, or smaller areas including Sanitary trims or Belly shaves. It is important to discuss grooming options with your professional groomer to develop a customized grooming program for your cat.

My Cat…

  • is acting normally; seems active and in good spirits
  • does not tire easily with moderate exercise
  • does not have seizures or fainting episodes
  • has a normal appetite
  • has had no significant change in weight
  • has a normal level of thirst and drinks the usual amount of water (about an ounce per pound of body weight per day, or less)
  • does not vomit often
  • does not regurgitate undigested food
  • has no difficulty eating or swallowing
  • has normal appearing bowel movements (formed and firm with no blood or mucus)
  • defecates without difficulty
  • urinates in normal amounts and with normal frequency; urine color is normal
  • urinates without difficulty
  • always uses a clean litter box
  • has not developed any new offensive behavioral tendencies (such as aggression or urine spraying)
  • has gums that are pink with no redness, swelling, or bleeding
  • does not sneeze and has no nasal discharge
  • has eyes that are bright, clear, and free of discharge
  • has a coat that is full, glossy, and free of bald spots and mats; no excessive shedding is evident
  • doesn’t scratch, lick, or chew excessively
  • has skin that is not greasy and has no offensive odor
  • is free of fleas, ticks, lice, and mites
  • has no persistent abnormal swellings
  • has no sores that do not heal
  • has no bleeding or discharge from any body opening
  • has ears that are clean and odor free
  • doesn’t shake its head or scratch its ears
  • hears normally and reacts as usual to its environment
  • walks without stiffness, pain, or difficulty
  • has feet that appear healthy, and has claws of normal length
  • breathes normally without straining or coughing

Regular visits to the groomer and the veterinarian will help you keep your cat healthy, and keep you informed of any noticeable changes in health or behavior that may be suspicious.

The above content is intended to be informational. We do not assume responsibility or liability for patient care or outcome.

For more info see: http://www.vet.cornell.edu/FHC/health_resources/SeniorCats.cfm