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Fearful behavior in cats may develop for many reasons. Hereditary and environmental factors contribute to behavioral development. Early socialization of kittens is very important for normal development. Cats and kittens that display fearful behavior should be treated as soon as possible for the most successful outcome.
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House soiling or feline inappropriate elimination is not uncommon. Urine and/or stool may be deposited outside of the litter box. The motivation for the behavior may be a need to eliminate (toileting) or a desire to communicate (marking). Medical conditions may predispose cats to exhibit house soiling and a veterinary examination is always needed.
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Urine marking is a form of communication for cats and can be used to establish territory and communicate social and sexual status. House cats may mark when there is social conflict in the home, or when they experience anxiety or frustration. Medical conditions, particularly those associated with pain, can trigger marking. It is important to learn the motivation for marking in order to find an effective treatment plan.
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Some cats that appear to be perfectly comfortable resting in a lap can suddenly turn around, bite, and run away. There are ways to reduce the likelihood that your cat will bite you. Treatment will depend on the specific reason for the behavior.
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Cat bites can be dangerous both to other animals and to humans. All cats carry bacteria in their mouths that can cause tissue infections in bite wounds. These bites may lead to serious conditions such as cellulitis and/or septicemia. Immediately wash your wound and contact a physician as soon as possible to have the wound properly treated.
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The Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA) is committed to excellence in healthcare for cats. FelineVMA launched the Cat Friendly Practice program in 2012. To earn the Cat Friendly Practice designation, a veterinary practice must show that they have implemented feline-friendly standards of care. A Cat Friendly Practice is committed to making your cat’s healthcare delivery more pleasant for both you and your cat.
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A cat-only veterinary practice is typically designed and built with cat comfort in mind. Feline Practices are especially interested in delivering medical care to cats in ways that help the cat (and her human family members) experience as little stress as possible. Cats need to see their veterinarians for preventive care. It is recommended that cats be seen by their veterinarian twice per. You can make regular veterinary assessment as easy as possible for your cat by seeking out a cat only veterinary practice.
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Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by the bacteria Bartonella that is transmitted by cat fleas and other biting insects. Cats act as reservoirs for the bacteria. Humans are exposed to the bacteria through flea feces that contaminate skin lesions or eyes. Signs include fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes, and lesions on the eye and skin. The disease is usually self-limiting; however, some people will require antibiotics, especially if they are immunocompromised. Tests are available for diagnosis in humans as well as in cats. The most important ways you can prevent CSD include strict flea control, good hygiene, keeping your cat indoors, and keeping your cat's nails trimmed.
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Treats are a great way to bond with your cat but are an additional source of calories that must be considered within the overall diet. Treats should be no more than10% of your cat's daily calorie intake and, in greater quantities, can create a nutritional imbalance. Consider choosing lower calorie treats for your cat to avoid exceeding the 10% rule.
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A cataract is an increase in opacity of the eye’s lens. Any type of inflammation or damage to the lens can lead to a cataract. The clinical signs of cataracts vary depending on the size of the cataract; many cataracts are asymptomatic at the time they are diagnosed during a veterinary exam. The ideal treatment for cataracts is surgery, but not all cats are candidates for surgical treatment. In these cases, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to prevent glaucoma and other secondary complications of cataracts.