According to US Pet Ownership statistics, there are approximately 86.4 million OWNED cats in the
The common misconception we hear from cat owners in regards to bringing cats into the clinic for preventative care is that their cats are inside cats and they don’t need shots. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Cats, like dogs, age an average of 7 years to our 1 human year. Cats, like dogs, need routine annual exams and weight checks to detect illnesses before they become severe or untreatable. Cats, like dogs, need a series of vaccines as kittens to build their immunity against various diseases. And even ‘inside only’ adult cats need a minimum of a rabies vaccine (by law and for the protection of the cat and any human or animal in contact with the cat). At Suburban Animal Clinic we assess your cat’s home life and living conditions and tailor a vaccine protocol to your cat. We don’t believe in giving every vaccine that’s out there. We only give vaccines that we feel are necessary for your cat.
Another concern we hear from cat owners is actually getting the cat to the vet. Bringing out the ‘dreaded cat carrier’ generally means that your cat has vanished into the deepest, darkest hiding place it can find. Once you finally find your cat, drag it out, stuff it in the carrier then take it in the car to the vet, both you and your poor kitty are stressed! It doesn’t have to be like that. Later we’ll give you tips on getting your cat to the vet without all the stress, but for now, begin with leaving the carrier out in your cat’s favorite area. Put a towel or other bedding in it, and even a favorite toy. Give your cat time as curiosity will get the better of him as he decides to check it out. You may be surprised to eventually find him napping in the carrier!
Many cat owners are fearful of what their cat does when it goes to the vet. Some cats who are affectionate at home turn into a blur of swatting claws and hissing. We even have some who must be sedated to be able to safely complete routine wellcare. Don’t worry-we see it all! We understand that cats do not like change, most do not like strangers, and very few like going to the vet. Our staff is trained to handle all kinds of cats, and will do our best to care for your cat as if he or she were our own pet.
Suburban Animal Clinic is proud to announce completion of the Cat Friendly Program in conjunction with the American Association of Feline Practitioners. To qualify, we had to meet certain standards in terms of caring for our feline patients. Areas evaluated included routine nursing care, handling of feline patients, surgery and anesthesia, and preventative care. Cats are different than dogs and have their own special needs. Our staff makes a conscious effort to give you and your cat the best veterinary experience as possible.
Please continue to check back often as we celebrate our Feline Friends over the next couple months with information and advice on caring for your faithful, feline companions.