Many cat owners opt for DIY solutions instead of visiting their veterinarian for minor issues. But when it comes to treating common discomforts and ailments, nothing beats professional help!
If your cat is in pain, cold or heat therapy can help alleviate their suffering. But before reaching for prescription pain medication from the vet, here are some natural solutions to try at home first.
Contents
1. Vaccinations
Vaccines are essential to keeping your cat healthy throughout its lifetime. They safeguard against many serious and sometimes lethal diseases that may exist in either natural or urban settings.
Vaccinating your cat’s immune system causes it to produce antibodies against specific infectious agents. Antibodies recognize the presence of the disease-causing agent, initiating an “immune response” that destroys it and prevents illness from taking hold.
Some vaccines may cause mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or fever; however, these are extremely rare and usually due to preexisting genetic or medical conditions.
We strongly advise all cats to receive certain core vaccines, such as feline herpesvirus-1, feline calicivirus and panleukopenia vaccine.
2. Health Checks
Regularly checking on your cat’s health can help detect any issues early, so that you can seek medical assistance if needed and reduce the likelihood of serious illness or injury in the future.
To begin, place both of your hands firmly over your cat’s body. Doing this allows you to feel their ribs, stomach and back.
Check your pup’s eyes for redness, discoloration or discharge; these could be early warning signs of eye diseases that require treatment at the vet’s.
It’s also wise to check your cat’s ears. Ear mites are common and can lead to ear infections and itching that is uncomfortable for your feline companion.
3. Dietary Changes
Selecting the correct food is essential for your cat’s wellbeing and longevity. Feeding them a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates will keep them fit and healthy.
Eating differently for your cat can help them avoid many health and behavioral issues, such as digestive and behavioral difficulties. Eating healthier also makes them feel satiated and may improve hydration levels.
To transition your cat’s diet, the key is to gradually introduce small amounts of the new food into their regular meals over several weeks. Start by offering small portions mixed with some portion of their old food for two or four days, then gradually increase it until it forms a complete part of their meals.
A gradual, gradual dietary adjustment is ideal for most cats. A sudden shift can cause gastrointestinal upset, so give your cat plenty of time to become accustomed to their new food.
4. Medication
Medications can provide pain relief and aid cats in recovering from serious illness or injury. However, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for the appropriate treatment plan.
Cats may benefit from anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These are often combined with bronchodilators, which open the airways for easier breathing.
If your cat has a severe illness, the vet may suggest an opioid medication like fentanyl or morphine. This medication can come in pill form or as an easy-to-administrate patch that slowly releases the drug into your feline’s system.
When administering liquid medication to your cat, always use a syringe and hold the tip firmly in your hand. Depending on their temperament, you may need to hold them or wrap her head in a towel in order to reduce stress.
