|
Feline Wellness
Suggested Annual Schedule for Cats
► Rabies Vaccination – all cats
► FVRCP Vaccination – all cats
► FeLV Vaccination – based upon risk (outdoor cats)
► Wellness Blood Panel – based upon age
► Frontline Plus – based upon risk (outdoor cats)
► Heartworm Prevention – based upon risk (outdoor cats)
► Deworming or Fecal Examinations – twice yearly
Feline Vaccinations:
Rabies
- Rabies is a fatal disease spread through saliva.
- In South Dakota, rabies is typically found in skunks, bats and other wildlife.
- Cats require a yearly rabies vaccination in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area.
Calici Virus (the C in FVRCP)
- Respiratory and oral disease of cats
- Can cause sever ulceration of the tongue
- Can be life threatening because they will not want to eat
- Passed from cat to cat
Viral Rhinotracheitis Virus ( the FVR in FVRCP)
- This virus is a member of the herpes virus family
- This is the major virus involved in feline upper respiratory tract infection
- It is a virus that lives in the nerve endings and so will be a chronic recurring problem if they contract the disease
Panleukopenia Virus (the P in FVRCP)
- Also known as feline distemper
- This is a fatal disease that will suppress the bone marrow of cats preventing them from making red and white blood cells
- Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea.
- It is passed from cat to cat usually in tears, saliva and urine
Chlamydia (the C in FVRCP)
- Agent is Chlamydia psittaci
- This is an upper respiratory pathogen in birds, cats and people
- Infection is usually limited to the eyes
- But this is a condition that can be transmitted to people
Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
- Retrovirus disease
- Causes suppression of the immune system
- Predisposes to lymphoma
- Suppression of the bone marrow
Wellness and Senior Blood Panels:
- CBC (Complete Blood Count)
- Blood Chemistry
- Thyroid
- FeLV and FIV Testing
- Heartworm/Lyme/Ehrlichia Test
- Urinalysis
- Fecal Exam
Fleas, Ticks, Heartworms, and Intestinal Parasites:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Heartworms
- Intestinal Parasites – Roundworms, Hookworms, Whipworms, Tapeworms, etc.
- Ear Mites
Diagnosis and Treatment of your Sick Cat:
- Complete Physical Examination
- Bloodwork In-House or at Referral Laboratory
- Urinalysis and Fecal Exams
- X-Rays
- Referral Ultrasound, Endoscopy, and Laparoscopy
- I.V. Fluids
- Blood Transfusions
- Access to Veterinary Emergency Hospital for over-night and weekend care
Common Diseases of Older Cats
Cats get many of the same diseases as humans. It is important to recognize the clinical signs of some common diseases, especially since cats are good at hiding illness. With early detection and treatment we can extend the quality of life for most pets.
Periodontal Disease
Infection of the teeth and gums affects more than 40% of older cats. Loose teeth, swollen gums and cavities hurt, and the bacteria present in tartar and calculus can enter the blood stream and cause infection of the kidneys and the heart. Cleaning teeth regularly can add 2 years to the life of your cat.
Obesity
Nearly 50% of all cats are overweight and up to 15% are obese. Being overweight will increase your cat’s chance of developing arthritis, diabetes and much more. Let us help you determine an appropriate diet and exercise plan to help your cat live longer and happier.
Hyperthyroidism
This condition is caused by an overactive thyroid gland that can only be diagnosed with blood tests. Cats will often lose weight despite a normal or increased appetite. Hyperthyroidism can lead to secondary heart, liver and kidney disease, however it is treatable with medications.
Cancer
Cats get many of the same types of cancers as humans. Testing and frequent physical examinations may provide early detection that allows therapy to start before the cancer has taken hold or spread to other sites within the body. Be sure to point out any new lumps or bumps that you find.
Kidney Disease
This disease is one of the leading causes of death in cats. With blood work, it can be detected early before symptoms even show up. If found early, we can prolong life expectancy and maintain a high quality of life for your pet. Treatment varies from dietary changes to home fluid therapy depending upon the severity of the disease.
Heart Disease
Cats can develop several types of heart disease. You may see weight loss, difficulty breathing or decreased energy. Physical examination can reveal a murmur that may lead to the recommendation of further testing, such as chest X-rays, electrocardiograms (EKGs) or ultrasound of the heart. Medications are available to help keep your cat comfortable.
Diabetes
Just like people, cats can develop diabetes. Clinical signs include drinking more water and urinating more frequently, losing weight, a dull hair coat and vomiting. We use blood and urine tests that detect high sugar levels to diagnose the disease. In most cases, cats will respond well to simple insulin therapy. Left untreated, diabetes progresses quickly and can cause significant organ damage.
| 
Processing ....