Preventive Care for Cats
Help your cat live a longer, happier life.
The Importance of Preventive Care for Your Cat
Preventive care is essential to keeping your cat healthy and ensuring their long-term well-being. Routine veterinary visits provide peace of mind and increase the likelihood of detecting underlying health issues before they become serious or costly to treat.
How Often Should My Cat See a Veterinarian?
At Lake Alfred Animal Hospital, we follow preventive care guidelines established by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Our veterinarians further tailor their recommendations based on factors such as your cat’s age, lifestyle, and medical history.
In general, we recommend at least one annual wellness exam. During this visit, our veterinarians will review your cat’s medical history, assess their behavior, provide dietary recommendations, and monitor any existing health conditions.
What to Expect During a Preventive Care Exam
A preventive care exam is similar to an annual physical for humans. During the appointment, we will:
- Check your cat’s temperature
- Examine their eyes, ears, teeth, and skin
- Listen to their heart and lungs
- Assess joint health and mobility
Additional Preventive Care Recommendations
Your veterinarian may also recommend:
- Vaccinations based on your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors. Core vaccines include rabies and feline distemper, while additional vaccines such as feline leukemia (FeLV) may be recommended.
- Parasite prevention to protect against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites.
- Diagnostic testing to identify underlying health conditions that may not be apparent during a physical exam and to confirm your cat is free from internal parasites.
During your cat’s annual exam, we will also discuss other beneficial services such as spaying/neutering, microchipping, and dental care. If you have any questions about your cat’s health, our team is here to provide guidance and ensure they receive the best possible care.
Call us at (863) 956-5700 or request an appointment online to schedule your cat's annual preventive care exam.
