With the proper care, a cat can live anywhere from 13 to 17 years—or longer. But to make sure you’re setting your feline companion up for a happy and healthy life, it’s critical to be proactive about pet care. To start, get set up with a trusted animal hospital that can provide your cat with essential animal vaccines and routine care. After that, consider these care tips from the specialists at Liberty Veterinary Hospital in Liberty Township, OH.

5 Animal Hospital Tips to Keep Your Cat Healthy

1. Spay or Neuter

Although it’s technically optional to spay or neuter your cat, it’s highly recommended for a variety of medical reasons. These quick procedures can prevent a variety of reproductive health issues, such as ovarian cancer in females and testicular cancer in males. In addition, this preventive measure can help curb feline overpopulation.

2. Brush Daily

Cats may clean themselves on a regular basis, but it’s still important to brush them each day to help remove loose hairs and promote good hygiene. This practice will go a long way in preventing hairballs and the digestive issues they can cause.

3. Practice Good Litter Box Care

Set up at least one box for every cat in your home—plus an extra. To prevent your pet from feeling anxiety, make sure the boxes are in an open and accessible area. And, by cleaning the box regularly, you’ll discourage your cat from using other areas of the home as a bathroom and be able to look for signs of health problems in their waste.   

4. Maintain a Balanced Diet

Cats should primarily stick to wet food, as it contains meat that is essential to their dietary needs. Dry food, on the other hand, contains excessive carbohydrates and can contribute to weight gain and diabetes.

5. Encourage Exercise

Regular playtime can help you bond with your furry companion, as well as promote physical activity and mental stimulation. You should also set up scratching posts to help your pet stretch their muscles and keep their nails short.

In addition to following these tips, your cat’s long-term health also depends on regular wellness visits with a vet about once or twice a year. If you need a reliable, feline-friendly animal doctor in the Liberty Township, OH, region, consider the providers at Liberty Veterinary Hospital. From standard immunizations to emergency pet surgery, these specialists are equipped to help your cat receive premium medical care. Learn more about their services online, or call (513) 755-9700 to schedule an appointment.