February is for the felines! Most importantly, it’s an opportunity to ensure they are living a healthy lifestyle that will result in many great years to come. During the month, we ask cat families to give extra attention to their cat’s physical and mental well-being. It’s also a good time to educate yourself on the signs that your cat may be dealing with an illness or an underlying health issue. To help you get a head start, here are some helpful tips from our experts:
1.) Visit your veterinarian for a check-up
We all know that life can get busy and you can sometimes miss getting your furry family member in for a check-up. National Cat Health Month is the perfect time to do it! When a problem is detected, early diagnosis and treatment are key to their longevity. You also want to make sure that your cat’s vaccines are up to date to help combat any future diseases. Dr. Lindsey Gapstur, Supervising Veterinarian at Larimer Humane Society, stresses the importance of these check-ups. “Yearly veterinary exams are very important. They say one year to a cat is like seven years for humans and that means a lot can change in such a short time for our pets. Yearly veterinary exams are vital to catching health problems before they get beyond the point of intervention.”
2.) Keep your pet entertained with a new toy
Did you know that your cat’s emotional health is just as important as their physical health? Buying a new toy can help improve their mood while keeping their mind sharp.
3.) Take the time to make sure your cat is happy
Depression can occur in any animal, and cats aren’t immune from it. It’s key to keep an eye on any abnormal behavior or a change in appetite that your cat exhibits.
4.) Use the month to bond with your feline friend to help increase your mental positivity
Times have definitely been strange since March 2020, but bonding with your cat can also help with your mental state. It’s been said that one of the health benefits of owning a cat is the calming effect that can come with gently and repeatedly stroking your furry friend’s back.
Enjoy this month centered on your cat, and prioritize them by day-to-day activities and a rewarding home environment!
