Regardless of your cat’s lifestyle, routine veterinary care is an important step in keeping her healthy and extending her life.
Routine visits give the veterinarian a chance to perform a complete physical exam. This exam provides a picture of the general health of your cat. Your veterinarian will perform a visual examination as well as listen to your cat’s heart and lungs. If issues are noted on this physical exam, they may recommend further diagnostic testing, such as bloodwork or radiographs. If your cat has been to the veterinarian for routine visits, the veterinarian is more likely to note any changes in her condition since the last visit. This will allow for early detection of any health problems. Early detection allows for establishment of an effective treatment regimen that is frequently less expensive and more successful than treating more advanced disease processes.
Secondly, establishing and maintaining a relationship with a veterinarian for routine care makes it easier to purchase preventative and other prescription medications, such as those for fleas and ticks. Most state laws require a current veterinary-client-patient relationship in order to dispense any prescription medication. Routine visits allow your veterinarian to become familiar with your cat’s medical history to provide the best recommendations for medications and treatments.
Finally, your veterinarian will look at the overall health of your cat, her age, history, and lifestyle in order to recommend a personalized vaccination regimen. Proper vaccinations serve to prevent many illnesses that our pets can be affected by and help to extend their lives.
Veterinarians should be seen as an active partner in helping to care for your pet. Routine visits, not just taking your cat to the vet when she is ill, can be a proactive step that owners can take to prevent future issues and helping her to live a long, happy life!
https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/importance-wellness-exams
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/vaccinations-your-pet
