June is National Adopt a Cat Month! Have you recently added a new four-legged furry addition to your family? Once you signed the adoption papers, did your new pal make her way into your heart? At Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic, veterinarians Dr. Beth Kingery, Dr. Randal Sakaino, and their animal medical care staff understand just how much you love every meow and every cuddle session.

Below, these dedicated and compassionate animal doctors have included four simple tips for you, ensuring that your newly adopted cat stays healthy.

• Brush your cat: Yes, pampering your cat is essential! Not only is everyday spa time fun, but brushing your cat daily will prevent excess hairballs from developing in the digestive tract. 

  

• Incorporate wet food into your cat's diet: While dogs can be vegetarians and vegans, cats cannot; meat is an essential part of the feline diet. Dry food contains a large amount of carbohydrates, which can lead to obesity and type 2 diabetes in your cat. You do not have to cut out dry food completely, but make sure your cat is eating wet food, too! 
• Spay or neuter your pet: Female cats are not only uncomfortable when they go into heat, but hundreds of thousands of stray cats have to be euthanized every year. Spaying or neutering your cat can help tremendously with overpopulation.

  

• Vaccinations are essential: Yes, shots are painful, but your cat will thank you in the end, especially if you are by your pet's side. The "distemper" shot, or the Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP) shots protect against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Additionally, the rabies vaccine is extremely important, as rabies is a fatal virus and all mammals are susceptible. 

Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic cares deeply about your newly adopted four-legged companion. To learn more about how this veterinary clinic can help you and your pet, visit them online or call (808) 625-6744. You and your pet deserve the best of care!