8 telltale signs that it’s time to take a cat to a vet

8 telltale signs that it’s time to take a cat to a vet

Cats are natural but small predators. They believe showing signs of sickness makes them easy prey for other larger predators. That is why they tend to hide their discomfort when feeling unwell. If a cat you care for displays signs of ill health, that can be a major cause of worry, warranting immediate attention from a vet. Watch out for the following changes in behavior or signs that your cat is sick:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea: While vomiting occasionally is not a concern, keep an eye out for the timing and frequency of vomiting and diarrhea, as this may require a trip to the veterinarian.
  • Sudden changes in appetite, drinking, or eating habits: Changes in appetite and eating habits could result from or lead to hyperthyroidism, fatty liver disease, or hepatic lipidosis in cats.
  • Noticeable weight changes: If your cat has been experiencing unexplained weight gain or loss, it may be time to visit the veterinarian.
  • Breathing problems: If your cat is experiencing wheezing, rapid or raspy breathing, or shortness of breath, rush them to the veterinarian for an emergency check-up.
  • Mood changes: If your friendly and confident cat begins to show signs of aggression or fear, you may want to have them checked. Confused or disoriented cats may need emergency medical intervention.
  • Over-grooming: Over-grooming could indicate that your cat is experiencing a skin infection or pain.
  • Lethargy: If your cat never seems to have the motivation to play, is sleeping more than usual, or has low energy levels, it could be a warning sign for their health.
  • Bad breath: Severe bad breath (halitosis), excessive drooling, and bleeding from the mouth could be signs of an oral infection. This can spread through the body and affect the heart and lungs.

Some other signs and symptoms to watch out for include constricted or dilated pupils, neglecting grooming, improper use of their litter box, limping, showing signs of injury such as wounds or swelling, changes in vocalization, changes in urination patterns, discharge from eyes, ears, or nose, ear debris, hair loss, skin irritation, or hiding. If your cat begins to display any of these signs, it is time to visit a veterinarian and get them checked.

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Top 10 cat food deals to check out ahead of Black Friday 2022

Black Friday will be here soon, presenting pet parents an opportunity to stock up on food for their feline friends without spending a lot. There will be plenty of discounts from the top pet food brands, including Royal Canin and Purina. But if you cannot wait until then, check out these ten fantastic deals that are available right now. Take your time researching well and pick the healthiest options for your cat! Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-free Healthy Weight Recipe Dry Cat food This grain-free recipe ensures your pet gets the proper nourishment and maintains a healthy weight. Besides promoting weight control, it supports the muscles and improves digestive health. The product is already available at a discount of 7% on Chewy, but you can expect a better deal during the year-end sale. Wellness Healthy Indulgence Gravies Grain-free Variety Pack This variety pack makes mealtimes quick and easy. Created by nutritionists and veterinarians, the recipes are enriched with the finest ingredients to promote your cat’s well-being. Petco is offering a discount of 5%, but you can get it at an even lower price by opting for repeat delivery. Tiki Cat Queen Emma Luau Variety-pack Grain-free Canned Cat Food You can save 10% on this variety pack from Tiki Cat at Chewy. It contains unique recipes to boost your cat’s hydration and provide essential vitamins and minerals. The product is excellent for cats with allergies and comes in various flavors, ideal for even the pickiest of eaters. Solid Gold Katz-n-Flocken Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe This delicious dry cat food option from Solid Gold has pearled barley. Your pet will love its taste while benefiting from high-quality and nutritious whole grains. Get it for a discount of 7% at Chewy. Wysong Archetype Burgers Freeze-Dried Raw Dog & Cat Food If you are looking for healthy raw cat food in large quantities, a great option is Wysong Archetype Burgers. It uses high-quality meats and can be fed dry. Save 16% on the 20-oz canister at Chewy. Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Cat Food If your cat is a fan of salmon, consider this option. It has real salmon as the main ingredient, combined with wholesome brown rice, vegetables, essential vitamins, and minerals. Originally priced at $13.49, you can get this cat food for $11.72 at Chewy. Halo Holistic Chicken & Chicken Liver Recipe Adult Dry Cat Food This adult dry cat kibble uses a holistic formula to support your pet cat’s digestion and nutrition needs. It has the taste of real chicken, thanks to the use of certified quality ingredients. Get this dry cat food from Chewy at $28.85 and save 15%. Whiskas CATMILK PLUS Drink for Cats and Kittens After a discount, Walmart sells three counts of this product for $7.53. This protein-rich milk is easy to digest and has essential nutrients for healthy teeth and bones. A lactose-reduced formula makes it suitable for pets with sensitive stomachs. Purina Beyond Mixers+ Immune Support Variety Pack Wet Cat Food Purina is among those cat food brands that use natural ingredients to provide complete and balanced nutrition. This variety pack offers extra support for your furry friend’s immune health and is available in two delicious recipes. Get a discount of 5% at Chewy. Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Dry Food for Young Kittens Originally priced at $41.99, you can get this dry food for young kittens for $34.99 at Petco. This easy-to-chew cat kibble from Royal Canin uses an innovative mix to support your kitten’s developing immune system. These are some of the best deals on cat foods ahead of Black Friday 2022. The offers will get better in the coming months, so plan wisely to save the maximum!

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10 tips to save money on veterinary bills

Owning a pet can bring great joy, but it also comes with responsibilities, including veterinary care. While everyone wants the best for their furry family members, the cost of veterinary care can be significant. However, providing excellent care for pets doesn't mean it has to drain one's finances. The following article explores ten valuable tips to help one save money on veterinary bills while still providing excellent care for pets. Preventative care is key The old saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," holds true in this scenario too. One must ensure their pet receives the vaccinations as recommended by the veterinarian. These vaccinations can prevent common and often costly diseases. Preventive care also includes regular screening for pets. Regular check-ups Routine check-ups with the veterinarian are essential for a pet's overall health. These vet visits can detect health issues early, saving on costly treatments. During check-ups, pet parents must discuss their pet's food regimen, exercise, and any concerns they may have. Comparison shop for veterinary clinics Like with any service, prices for veterinary care can vary from one clinic to another. Take the time to compare prices and services offered by different clinics in the area. Some clinics may offer affordable wellness packages. Consider pet insurance Pet insurance can extensively help offset the cost of unexpected health expenses. Research different insurance providers to find a plan that suits the budget and provides adequate coverage for the pet's needs. Maintain a healthy food routine Feeding a pet nutritious meals can prevent many health problems. Consult a veterinarian for advice on the best meal plan for the pet's specific needs. Avoid overfeeding and excessive treats to prevent health complications. Home dental care Dental issues can lead to expensive treatments. Regularly brushing a pet's teeth and providing dental chews can help maintain their oral health and prevent costly dental procedures. Regular exercise One must keep their pets physically active and mentally stimulated. Exercise can ensure fitness and promote overall well-being, reducing the risk of various health issues. Request an estimation Before any major veterinary procedure or treatment, ask the veterinarian for a detailed cost estimation. This can help plan the budget more effectively and avoid unexpected financial surprises. It also allows one to discuss alternative treatment options if the initial estimate exceeds their budget. Many veterinarians are willing to work with pet parents to find cost-effective solutions while maintaining the quality of care their pet needs. Join pet communities Join local pet communities or online support groups where members share advice on affordable veterinary care options and discounts. Sometimes, these communities can provide valuable recommendations. Emergency savings fund Establish an emergency savings fund dedicated to the pet's health needs. Setting aside a small amount each month for pet care can help one cover unexpected veterinary bills without straining their budget. By implementing these ten money-saving tips, one can keep their furry companions healthy while being mindful of their budget.

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