Cats

If your cat or dog loved to go to the vet, would you feel differently about providing your pet with necessary routine health care? “America’s Veterinarian” Dr. Marty Becker is answering that question with a resounding “yes!” and so are tens of thousands of Fear Free Certified veterinary professionals around the country. I am in the exam room with George, a brown, stocky dog who eyes me suspiciously from behind his mom’s legs. His ears are back, his tail is tucked under his belly, and every couple of breaths, he shudders quietly. His mom shares that he is petrified at the veterinarian’s office. He get so stressed, she has not brought him to the doctor in over a year even though he needs a rabies vaccine and a blood test. As a Fear Free veterinarian, I have seen cases like George’s where going to vet is so frightening that the pet isn’t getting the healthcare they deserve. Stress can negatively affect the quality of life of our fur babies when they are at the vet and when they get home. In addition, patient stress inhibits the veterinary healthcare team’s ability to deliver quality medical care and effectively treat what ails your little one. Enter Fear Free. For pets like George, Fear Free vet visits can hold the key to better healthcare and a happier life.

4. Ditching the Toothbrush and Dental Care Regular dental care is important to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent oral diseases in cats. Without proper dental care, cats have an increased risk of gingivitis, a disease that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. Plaque also builds up on the teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and the need for surgical removal of the affected teeth. Cats with dental disease are often in significant pain and will often refuse to eat or drink. Gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, which happens when the ligaments that hold the teeth to the gums weaken. This results in deep pockets between the teeth that can become infected. Teeth loosen and eventually fall out if periodontal disease is left untreated. To keep your cat’s teeth healthy, regular dental care—at home and with your veterinarian—is key: Use a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste at least a couple of times each week to reduce plaque buildup. Feed hard kibble and provide dental treats, such as Greenies®, to scrape the teeth clean. Schedule regular professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian. Annual cleanings are common, but your veterinarian will recommend the frequency best for your cat. During dental cleanings, your veterinarian will use special tools to remove plaque buildup, clean around and underneath the gumline, and clean and polish your cat’s teeth. Dental cleanings are done under general anesthesia, and any problematic teeth can be removed during the surgery.,Cats thrive when pet parents understand the small daily choices that affect their long-term health. Below are the five most common mistakes cat parents make—and the simple steps you can take to avoid them.