If none of these explanations apply, illness might be the cause. Immediately take your cat to the vet - urinary problems can be fatal. See
FUS Facts for additional information.
Covered litter boxes are appreciated by timid cats who like their privacy and also by household members who find cat boxes objectionable. A variety of covers, from plain plastic to colorful cardboard "houses," are available at pet stores and mail-order firms.
Some cats are tidier than others when they use the litter box. If you have a cat who scatters his litter, place a woven or raffia mat under the box to confine the grains to a small area.
Vaccinations:
Rabies, which is fatal to unvaccinated cats, is most often spread through bites from infected animals such as raccoons, skunks and bats. Vaccinations for rabies should be sheduled when your cat is three months old and again about a year later, with annual boosters.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), which is usually fatal to cats, can spread from one cat to another through biting or grooming each other or sharing water dishes or litter boxes. All cats should be tested for this virus and vaccinated annually.
See
Feline Vaccinations for additional information.
Veterinarian:
It's a good idea to keep your own records of your cat's medical history, including vaccinations. In the event of a move or an
emergency, you'll have all the necessary data at hand.
Choose a veterinary practice that meets your needs. Smaller practices offer personal care but often lack the advanced equipment and specialization available at larger centers. Most outpatient clinics manage to combine one-on-one care with the latest technology.
Veterinary costs vary widely, depending on location and type of service. When choosing a vet, call around and ask questions like "What do you charge for an office visit?" or, more specifically, "How much would it cost to have my cat
spayed?"
Many veterinarians are now using naturopathic or homeopathic procedures with good success. For more information, contact:
American Holistic Verterinary Medical Association
2214 Old Emmorton Road
Bel Air, MD 21015 USA
Phone: (410) 569-0795
Traveling clinics, a recent innovation in veterinary care, check for parasites and offer routine vaccinations; however, they don't cover all the other kinds of care your cat needs, so it's wise to have your own vet as well.
When visiting your vet, it's best to keep your cat confined in a carrier while you're in the waiting room. Even a placid, sociable cat can be alarmed by the unfamiliar noises and behavior of the other patients.
Wounds:
By licking their wounds, cats are doing much more than just keeping them clean - they're also hastening the healing process. Research has shown that a component of the cat's saliva promotes the growth of new skin cells.
If your cat suddenly develops a limp, check to see if a pebble, thorn or other foreign object has become lodged in a foot pad. If not, the limp might be caused by a hidden injury or infection that should be brought to a vet's attention.
See
Feline First Aid for additional information.
Miscellaneous:
Don't be alarmed if your cat exhibits a peculiar interest in your picture album. Apparently, an "animal safe" chemical used in developing photographs appeals to the feline palate, and many cat owners find their pictures licked into soggy shreds. However, the chemicals are TOXIC. The chemicals have the same effect as
antifreeze, and can cause severe
liver and
kidney damage.
Various animal organizations are located here.
Page URL: http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/health3.html
