How to care for your cat
Cats are experts at hiding signs of illness. This makes careful monitoring and preventive check-ups essential for their health.
Helpful tips
- Provide quality food and fresh water at all times.
- Keep the litter tray clean and in a quiet place.
- Provide safe, comfortable places to rest.
- Encourage daily play and activity.
- Follow recommendations for parasite prevention and vaccinations.
When to arrange a consultation
Contact your vet to determine how soon your pet needs to be assessed. Do not wait for a routine check-up if new symptoms appear or your pet’s condition changes.
- Your cat stops eating or eats significantly less — contact your vet promptly.
- Your cat hides more, loses weight or changes their activity level.
- Your cat vomits frequently or their litter tray habits change.
When you need immediate help
Contact a vet or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately if you notice:
- Difficulty breathing or, in cats, breathing with the mouth open.
- Collapse, loss of consciousness, prolonged or repeated seizures.
- Suspected poisoning, swallowing a foreign object or an accident.
- A suddenly swollen or painful abdomen, especially with unproductive retching.
- Inability to urinate, heavy bleeding or severe pain.
- Severe vomiting or diarrhoea accompanied by marked weakness or blood.
Outside opening hours
Sparky Vet is not a 24-hour clinic. For an emergency outside our opening hours, contact an emergency veterinary clinic that is open. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply or for our clinic to reopen.
This list is not exhaustive. If your pet’s condition worsens or you are unsure how urgent the situation is, seek veterinary guidance immediately.
Recommended check-ups
- Kittens need regular check-ups during their first year of life.
- Adult cats should have an annual check-up.
- Senior cats benefit from check-ups every six months to help detect chronic conditions early.
Prevention is the best form of care. Regular veterinary visits help maintain your furry friend’s health and wellbeing, giving them the chance of a longer, happier life. 🐾❤️
