February is National Cat Health Month, and if you're like many cat parents, you might be showing your cat love everyday with treats, snuggles, and scratches, but may be putting off some important, not-so-pleasant tasks.
While over 80% of dog parents see their vet for a yearly vet visit, only 54% of cat parents see their vet each year, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). If you're one of many cat parents who has been skipping out on wellness check-ups, it's not too late to get your cat's health back on track.

Your 5-Point National Cat Health Month Checklist

Schedule your cat's annual wellness checkup .

There's no need to wait until your cat is showing signs of pain or discomfort to see your veterinarian. Cats are notorious for hiding their pain, so by going to your vet for a physical exam and routine testing, it's possible to catch and treat illnesses early, giving your cat the best chances of staying healthy for many years.

Protect your cat against heartworm disease .

Many cat parents do not realize that, just like dogs, cats can contract heartworm disease, too. Heartworm is contracted through mosquitoes, so even indoor cats can get bitten and infected. heartworm prevention for catsWhile there are no approved heartworm disease treatments available for cats, and the condition is often fatal, it's easily avoidable with once-monthly .

Stay in control of fleas and ticks .

Disease-carrying fleas and ticks are a health hazard not only for roaming outdoor cats, but indoor cats, too. Pests can hitch a ride on other pets, or even on your clothes and shoes, and quickly target indoor cats once they enter your home. flea and tick protection for catsYear-round helps keep all of your family and your home pest-free.

Upgrade your cat's diet .

In general, cats thrive when their diet is high in moisture, high in protein, and low in carbohydrates. high quality cat foodA raw, cooked, freeze-dried, dehydrated, or even canned offers many benefits over the typical dry kibble diet, but if you can't make a complete switch, you can still supplement your cat's diet with toppers, fresh. foods, or healthy treats.

Start caring for your cat's teeth .

Poor dental health is one of the biggest threats to your cat's health, leading not only to painful gum disease, but also to the accumulation of bacteria that can spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Cat dental chews. If possible, brush your cat's teeth daily with a cat toothpaste and toothbrush, or use a bit of gauze wrapped around your finger. , tooth wipes and water additives can be used alongside brushing or when brushing isn't possible. Cats also need professional dental cleaning and x-rays from their vet to detect and eliminate disease below the gumline.

From vet visits to toothbrushing, National Cat Health Month might not sound like fun for your cat. Over time, these good choices can lead to a longer lifespan, less pain, and more healthy years with your favorite kitty. reduce your cat's anxietyIf your cat's behavioral issues make it difficult to keep up with their health, consider ways to to make vet visits or at-home care more manageable.

VISION

Every pet deserves to live a long, happy, healthy life.