Veterinary Clinic Dartmouth: A Lifetime of Feline Healthcare
Pet owners who live in the South Coast region, which includes Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island, can count on the preventative treatment and ongoing lifelong healthcare available through the Anchor Animal Hospital veterinary clinic in Dartmouth to provide them with the best possible care for their feline friends. From kitten veterinary care at the very beginning stages of life, on through adulthood and senior cat care, this Dartmouth animal hospital can help you with everything from vaccinations to check-ups and teach you all you need to know about proper nutrition or how to brush your cat’s teeth for comprehensive veterinary care.
Start at the Beginning: Kitten Care
The best way to give your cat a long and healthy life is to start right away on the path to proper veterinary care. Visit our Southeastern Massachusetts emergency vet and clinic for an initial “new pet” exam and feline leukemia test. Veterinarians recommend that you do this within 48 hours of adoption and before introducing your new pet into your home, especially if she will be around other cats. Even if the place where you adopt your new kitten says that she has had all of her shots, it is still important to visit your local Dartmouth animal hospital to begin regular check-ups and evaluations to make sure your new furry friend is healthy.
Kitten care vaccinations should be given right away at three to four week intervals. This process starts at the age of six to nine weeks. If your kitten has already had vaccinations from the breeder or place where she was adopted, make sure to request any medical records or proof to share with the veterinary clinic in Dartmouth. This will help avoid overlooking any important tests or vaccinations, as well as prevent you from having to re-do vaccinations as a precaution. A test will be given for feline leukemia and once testing has been cleared, two vaccinations will be given to prevent the disease at three to four weeks apart.
At the age of 16 weeks, approximately four months, your kitten should have her first rabies shot. This is required by law and is strongly recommended, especially for outdoor cats. Even indoor cats, who may escape and get outdoors and into a fight with another animal, should receive a rabies shot. Check local laws or speak with your Southeastern Massachusetts emergency vet to find out if there are any other local requirements. Worming should also be done at two to three week intervals or until the test is clear to make sure your new kitten doesn’t have any parasites. Spaying or neutering should occur as recommended by your veterinarian, usually at about eight weeks of age or shortly after.
Adult Cat Care: For a Long and Healthy Life
Your cat should receive an annual check-up at the Dartmouth animal hospital, which can include a urinalysis and lab testing to make sure your pet is healthy. Annual combination vaccinations can also be given during your visit to the veterinary clinic in Dartmouth and a rabies vaccination can also be updated, as required by Massachusetts or Rhode Island state law. Your veterinarian can recommend diet changes for weight loss or weight gain, as well as changes based upon the age or lifestyle of your cat. Technicians can show you how to brush your cat’s teeth at home for extended care and can offer on-site dental cleaning and scaling, as recommended by the veterinarian.
Senior cats may require special care. Dietary changes, lifestyle modifications and even more frequent veterinary visits and check-ups may be in order. Ask your vet about warning signs related to old age that you will want to watch out for, such as the amount of food or water that your cat consumes on a daily basis. Even slight changes can be indicative of a greater problem, so it is important to speak with your vet right away if you think something is wrong with your cat. Anchor Animal Hospital is not just a clinic for regular check-ups and vaccinations, but a well-known and respected Southeastern Massachusetts emergency vet that can provide a wide list of surgical, pain management, ultrasound and other treatments for your cat throughout her lifetime.
At-Home Care: What You Can Do
There are things that you can do to extend the health and life of your cat. Dental care is very important, especially in older cats, so it is important to start right away and brush your cat’s teeth three times a week. Nails should be trimmed monthly or more frequently, as needed. Regular grooming should also be provided. While most cats do not like baths, daily brushing and dry shampoos can be used for cats who need extra care.
Speak with your veterinarian about proper feeding and at-home treatments for your cat as she grows throughout her life. Dietary recommendations may be given based upon your cat’s unique needs or lifestyle situation.
Spend time with your cat on a weekly basis, perhaps during grooming time. Take care to do a home exam, checking for any injuries, weight loss, bumps, lumps or other issues that should be discussed with the vet at your local Dartmouth animal hospital. Call Anchor Animal Hospital with any questions or concerns or consider bringing in your cat to the emergency veterinary clinic in Dartmouth if urgent care is needed.