Cat Checklist
1. Vaccinations
To protect your cat against major life-threatening infectious
diseases –Feline Enteritis, Cat ‘Flu (Calici virus & Herpes Rhinotracheitis).
If your cat will be going outside, then he/she should also be protected
against Feline Leukaemia Virus. Annual boosters are then required to
keep your animal’s protection up-to-date.
2. Worming
Recommended every 3 months for cats who go outdoors; every 6 months for house cats.
Some cats who hunt need worming more frequently. The dose of wormer is based on
bodyweight; we’re happy to weigh your cat to get the worming dose correct. The “off the
shelf” products are less effective than those supplied by vets or pharmacies. Tablets or “spoton” formulations are available.
3. Flea treatment/prevention
Useful especially when your cat is going outside. As with worming products, the best (and
safest) products are supplied through vets or pharmacies. Spot-on or injectable products are
available.
4. Feeding
A diet that provides the right nutritional balance while being palatable to your cat and suiting
their digestive system is necessary for optimum health. This is generally most easily achieved
by feeding commercial cat food formulated for adult cats, though there are individual
idiosyncrasies –please ask for advice if you’re unsure. A mixture of wet (i.e. tinned food or
sachets) and dry food is often best. As your cat gets older, a “senior” diet is often best (over 8
years of age). Lower calorie diets are available for those individuals with a tendency to
become overweight.
5. Insurance
Recommended for all animals. Gives peace of mind, so that your pet can receive the
treatment they need if they suffer from an accident or illness. (Most policies will require an
excess amount to be paid per course of treatment and have a maximum cover amount.)
6. Neutering
Recommended from 5 months of age for both males and females; please ask for specific
advice for your pet.
7. Microchipping
Provides a permanent means of identification. Please remember to keep your details updated
if you move house or change your phone numbers!
8. Grooming
Whilst most short haired cats will manage their own grooming requirements when
young, as they get older they may need a little help, so getting them used to a brush or
comb is useful in earlier life as well as being a "bonding" activity. Long haired cats will
require regular combing and/or brushing. Please don't try to cut out patches of knotted
hair as you may cut the skin - knots need to be removed with clippers.