Vaccines and Cat Health
Prevention is key to most pet health issues, but there are some things to know in this day and age. More and more research shows raw diets and wet food are better than dry. Ingredients in pet food are becoming more questionable and the traditional ways people view pet health is changing as we're becoming more aware.
Do any search into pet food and you’ll see lot of questionable ingredients, recalls, etc. Try to look for higher protein content in your cat’s food and limit fillers, metals and any toxins. Water is of huge importance to a cat’s health. Providing a bowl of water and a cat fountain may help encourage them to drink more as many don’t get enough water into their system. Another way to introduce more water is to add some to their wet food while you mash it up. This also helps with digestion. The occasional teaspoon of natural pumpkin can aid in digestion and preventing hairball issues. There’s a plethora of information out there. We’re just going to list some things here, but it’s up to you to do your own research and decide what it best for your pet(s).
The world of vaccines is changing too. Many studies are showing vaccines stay in the pet’s body for YEARS. So, doing a simple titer test is best to confirm immunity. Annual vaccines are very unnecessary and are often dangerous as you’re overloading the pet’s body with meds and heavy metals. This overload can trigger asthma, diabetes, inflammation, auto-immune disease etc., just like in humans. There are new mRNA vaccines on the market like Nobivac to be cautious of as well. These were immediately approved without any long term studies and since all vaccines shed onto everyone around the vaccinated (including humans and other pets), we have no way of knowing how these new injections will affect you or other pets and children. If it is time to vaccinate your animal, please confirm with your vet what type of vaccines they use and ask if it’s really necessary. If you have an indoor cat who will never be exposed to anything, the initial vaccines it receives may be all it ever needs. Consult a holistic vet if the traditional one is not on par with your pet’s health plan and needs. There are many veterinarians out there these days, so keep “shopping” until you find one aligned with your needs and beliefs. (If your local county/city requires annual vaccination, find a vet who will write a letter of exemption. You are your pet’s advocate.)
Cats are great at masking health issues. In the wild, it keeps them safe from predators; however, in the modern world, this just means we need to be more diligent on knowing what’s normal for our pets and tracking things. A weekly look into your pet’s eyes, ears and teeth help you see what’s normal for your pet and will help you see if anything changes. It’s also a great way to get your pet used to being touched so it’s less fearful when it does go to a vet. Periodic glances into the litter box will also help you see what’s normal for your cat so if things change, you can address it immediately. Changes in your cat’s urine or poop are often a sign something is wrong and you need to contact a vet immediately, do NOT wait. Things like a UTI (urinary tract infection) can lead to major issues and pain for a pet if not addressed immediately. Any changes in the urine to a pinkish color or red/blood means you need to get the cat to the vet ASAP. Weighing your cat at least once per month is great for keeping an eye on things as well. Humans can stand to lose a few lbs. here and there, but cats cannot. One pound on them is like 40 on us and can be an indicator something is wrong. If your cat starts losing weight, get them in to see a doctor. Being mindful and aware can save you and your pet major issues and complications and can help you catch things and treat them before they become major issues that break the bank.
We wish you all the best and many years with your beloved cat(s).
Please use the internet regularly to research any potential issues and to stay aware of what’s going on in regards to new foods, litters, medications, etc.