The Cat Clinic

Full service feline only veterinary hospital

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Litter Box Care

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Litter Box Care to prevent or treat elimination problems

From the American Association of Feline Practitioners

Most cats prefer a fine-grained, unscented litter substrate (e.g., clumping litter). Boxes should be scooped 1 or 2 times daily. Clumping litter should be completely changed at least weekly and more often if more than one cat uses it. Clay litter should be changed a minimum of every other day (more frequently if multiple cats are using it).Wash litter box with warm, soapy water and dry well before adding new litter.

The ideal number of litter boxes is one per cat, plus one. Litter boxes should be placed in at least 2 different locations, and preferably more if a multiple cat household. Locations should be private and have easy access. Boxes should not be placed next to noisy appliances. Prevent blocking litter box exit or entry of one cat by another. Have at least two ways for cats to enter and exit the box. Never trap or corner a cat in its litter box to give it medication or perform other procedures that the cat may dislike.

Many cats prefer a litter depth of approximately 1.5 inches; however, preferences vary. Cats prefer litter boxes that are at least 1.5 times the length of their bodies. Many commercial litter boxes are too small for larger cats. Sweater storage boxes, cement mixing tubs, and small dog litter pans (for dogs up to 35 pounds) all make excellent cat litter boxes.

HELPFUL FACTS REGARDING URINATION AND DEFECATION: The average cat urinates twice daily (+/- 2), and defecates once (and up to 3-4 times in outdoor cats) daily. Some cats sniff and cover their eliminations; others don’t. Both are considered normal behavior. Eliminating outside the box often signals an underlying medical condition. The earlier the problem is corrected, the better the chance for the cat to return to the litter box.Call your veterinarian to schedule an appointment.

Pleasant veterinary visits

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How to help your cat have pleasant veterinary visits

From the American Association of Feline Practitioners.

Fear is the primary cause of misbehavior. Knowing this can help prevent problematic veterinary visits.

GETTING THE CAT INTO THE CARRIER – Keep the carrier out in the home. Put treats inside. Train cats to view the carrier as a safe haven and “home away from home.” A quick response is crucial in case of disaster or emergency. Carriers that have both a top and a front opening are best. Top-loading carriers allow for stress-free placement and removal of the cat. A removable carrier top enables cats to be examined while remaining in the bottom half of the carrier. Do not “dump” a cat out of the carrier.

ADJUSTING TO CAR RIDES – Always put the cat in a carrier or other safe container. Take the cat for regular car rides, beginning with very short ones, to places other than the veterinary hospital. To prevent car sickness, do not feed before traveling. Reward verbally, with positive attention, and with treats.

PLEASANT VETERINARY VISITS – Bring along the cat’s favorite treats, toys, and blanket. Perform regular home maintenance procedures, including grooming, nail trimming, teeth brushing. “Play vet” procedures that mimic temperature taking, ear cleaning, and pilling can help cats better adjust to the veterinary hospital and to future home care when necessary. Regular trips to the veterinary hospital for “fun” visits involving no examinations or procedures provide owners and staff with the opportunity to reward the cat with praise and food treats.

Blog

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February Newsletter    Dental Awareness Month

By Dr. Richard Duckett  DVM

February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Dental health often falls low on a pet owner’s list of health priorities.  Many pet owners simply do not realize the impact improper oral health care can have on their pet’s overall health.  Even if your cat could and did brush his/her teeth, plaque and tartar will build up over time leading to gingivitis and ultimately, periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease, the most common disease in cats, is a painful condition leading to bleeding gums, bad breath, food aversion, behavioral changes, and tooth loss.  More severe and potentially life-threatening complications arise when periodontal disease allows bacteria into the bloodstream resulting in potential damage to the heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs.

In addition to periodontal disease, cats may suffer from a condition known as Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions, commonly referred to as ‘FORLS’.  This is a painful condition unique to cats whereby enamel is lost resulting in exposed and infected tooth roots.  For many cats, this painful condition can only be detected at the time of a dental cleaning.

Although February has been declared Dental Health Month, we at The Cat Clinic of Plymouth feel every month should be dental health month.  In fact, this is how we approach every cat, every visit, every month.  In recognition of the effort in the campaign to make clients more aware of their cat’s oral health needs,

The Cat Clinic of Plymouth is happy to offer the following:

* 10 % discount on any and all dental procedures for any and all of your cats during the month of February ’14. 

In addition, we are extending this offer through March ’14 in order to reach as many cats as possible.

 

Please call 508-746-8580 to schedule an appointment so we can get those teeth cleaned!  It is important to us and important for your cat’s health.

 

Sincerely,

Dick Duckett, DVM