Your Cat's First Vet Visit

So you've got a new cat, and she needs aHere are some subjects to create your questions
checkup. On your first vet visit, your vet will takearound...
the lead and give you some basic information, andVaccination options: there are options for both
probably will go through a fairly standard routine.type and schedule, and there are risks, so be sure
Upwards of 90% of the information you need,to find out what your vet recommends for your
however, will be based on the questions that youcat.
ask your vet. Somewhere, typically towards theDiet and nutrition: ask about commercial cat foods
end of the checkup, your vet will ask you if youand brands as they are not all the same. What
have any questions.about alternatives like home made cat food, raw
Usually, by that time, your adrenaline has beenmeat diets, and feeding table scraps?
pumping, and you've been overloaded. Your catCommon cat owner mistakes: ask your vet which
has been stressed and so have you.... you arecommon mistakes to avoid.
both ready to leave. Do not let this opportunityEmergency procedures: find out what emergency
pass you by.procedures your vet has now, should you need it
Take this time to take the lead, and ask yourlater.
questions. What questions? Well, the ones thatIndoor or Outdoor: this is a big subject as it
you'll forget if you don't already have themgreatly affects your life, and the life span of your
written down. Yes, write them down now.cat.
Much of the information being distributed today onCat litter and litter boxes: many choices can be
feline diet, health, and cat care in general is eithernarrowed to only a few by asking your vet for
fear based (e.g. raw meat diets, vaccinationadvice.
scares), or profit based (i.e. advertising). It'sCommon diseases and their signs: understanding
important, therefore, to get your vet's take onwhat the common signs of disease are will help
some of these issues.you detect problems in your cat early, and may
Here is a list of issues that you can use tosave her life one day.
formulate your questions. This is by no means allUse the above list to get started. As you write
inclusive, and you'll probably have some specificyour questions, more will come to you. Write
ones of your own.them down, even if the answers appear obvious.
The important thing is that this will spark aThere is no question too small to ask your vet
dialogue between you and your vet that will helpabout the health of your cat.
both of you to better care for your cat.