When you own an outdoor cat, it’s natural to be concerned about their health and safety while they’re outdoors. With the aid of a trusted veterinarian, you can take steps to maximize your cat’s well-being. Below are four reliable tips for giving your outdoor cat a level of security when they’re not inside your home.

How to Better Care for an Outdoor Cat

1. Spay & Neuter

Outdoor and stray cats contribute to the ever-growing overpopulation of pets on the street. Do your part to reduce shelter deaths. Most counties offer spay-and-neuter voucher discounts on the procedure. Neutering mitigates male desires to stray, and spaying, which removes a female’s uterus and ovaries, prevents pregnancy.

2. Flea & Tick Protection

Whether provided by your veterinarian or purchased from a pet supply store, flea and tick protection is essential for an outdoor kitty. Protection is available in various forms, usually collars, neck drops, or pills, and it guards against bites and infestations. Fleas and ticks transmit disease, including anemia, and also cause hair loss, skin irritation, and discomfort.

3. Regular Checkups

Veterinarians can keep your cat up-to-date with vaccines that prevent disease as well as screen for injuries or other medical conditions that need special attention. They’ll be able to tell if your cat is fit and if their diet is out of order, making recommendations for changes if not. Regular exams also acclimate your cat to being handled by the veterinary staff. If they do become injured or ill, the trip to the animal hospital will be less distressing.

4. Microchipping

Microchipping is the practice of implanting a small injectable tracker under the skin on the back of a cat’s neck on which your contact information is loaded. If your cat goes missing, a vet or animal control officer scans the chip and reunites you.

For quality and caring veterinarian services for your outdoor feline, call Florence Veterinary Hospital in Florence, KY. For over 30 years, they’ve offered cutting-edge care that includes microchipping, dentistry, and surgeries like spaying and neutering. They’ll provide your cat with pet vaccines and nutrition guidance, and their mobile clinic makes home visits when needed. Learn about their procedures online, or call (859) 371-6501 to arrange an exam for your kitty today.