Take-home versions of the guidance our doctors give most often for cats. These are general guidelines — your veterinarian's advice for your specific cat always comes first.
All guides (29)
Airline Travel with Your CatI’m planning to travel and would like to take my cat with me. What are some of the factors I need to consider before taking him/her on an...Read the guide
Alternatives to DeclawingScratching can be a very frustrating cat behavior, but before you decide to declaw the kitty that has made your favorite chair his/her favorite scratching...Read the guide
Anal Sac Disease in CatsAnal sac impaction, infection, and abscesses in cats: signs like scooting, licking, and swelling near the tail, treatment, and recurring problems.Read the guide
Cystitis in Cats (FUS/FLUTD)What is cystitis? The term "cystitis" literally means inflammation of the urinary bladder. Although this is a general term, there is a common form of...Read the guide
Diabetes Mellitus in CatsBecause insulin comes in a glass bottle, we recommend that you store it in a small plastic container in the refrigerator to prevent breakage. Lay a thick...Read the guide
Environmental Enrichment for Indoor CatsWhile cats confined to an indoor environment generally live longer and are at less risk for contracting infectious diseases or injuries due to trauma,...Read the guide
Feline AllergiesWhat are allergies and how do they affect cats? One of the most common conditions affecting cats is allergies. In the allergic state, the cat's immune...Read the guide
Feline DiarrheaWhat causes diarrhea? Diarrhea is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of many different diseases. Many mild cases of diarrhea can be resolved quickly...Read the guide
Feline Heartworm InfectionWhat are heartworms? Heartworms are parasites that live in a cat’s heart or pulmonary arteries. They are nine to 11 inches long and look like angel hair...Read the guide
Feline Hookworm InfectionHookworms in cats: how these blood-feeding intestinal parasites spread, the signs in kittens and adults, treatment, and the risk to people.Read the guide
Feline HypertensionWhat is hypertension? Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Which cats are likely to get hypertension? Hypertension in...Read the guide
Feline HyperthyroidismRegardless of treatment option, there is the potential to “unmask” kidney disease because the elevated thyroid hormone increases blood flow to...Read the guide
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)What is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)? The Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is likened to the HIV virus in humans, which causes AIDS, because...Read the guide
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)What is feline leukemia virus (FeLV)? Feline leukemia virus infection was, until recently, the most common fatal disease of cats. Because we can now...Read the guide
Feline Mast Cell TumorWhat is a mast cell? A normal mast cell is part of our immunologic defense system against invading organisms. They particularly help fight against...Read the guide
Feline Neutering and SpayingWhy should I have my female cat spayed? Spaying is the removal of the uterus and ovaries. This offers several advantages. The female heat period...Read the guide
Feline Ringworm InfectionRingworm in cats is a fungal skin infection, not a worm, and it spreads to people: the signs, diagnosis, treatment, and cleaning the home.Read the guide
Feline Roundworm InfectionWhat are roundworms? Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites found in cats. They are also an important cause of illness and death in...Read the guide
Feline Tapeworm InfectionIn order for a cat to become infected with tapeworms, they must ingest a flea that contains tapeworm eggs. This process begins when tapeworm eggs are...Read the guide
Feline VomitingAn occasional hairball is one thing, but frequent vomiting in cats isn't normal — it's a common sign of illness. Here's what it can mean.Read the guide
Feline Whipworm InfectionWhipworms are uncommon but harmful intestinal parasites of cats. Chronic diarrhea is the telltale sign, and the eggs can last in soil for years.Read the guide
Heart Disease in CatsHeart disease in cats, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: how the heart works, signs of congestive heart failure, diagnosis, and treatment.Read the guide
Home Dental Care for CatsWhy should I brush my cat's teeth? Daily removal of plaque is the key to an effective oral hygiene program. Unless your cat’s teeth are brushed...Read the guide
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in CatsIf a response to diet change occurs, the cat can be maintained on this diet for the rest of his/her life (as long as it is balanced). If a response occurs...Read the guide
Kidney Disease in CatsChronic kidney disease is common in older cats: the early signs, diagnosis and staging, and the diet, fluids, and medications that help.Read the guide
Kittens: Recommendations for New OwnersCongratulations on your new kitten! Owning a cat can be an extremely rewarding experience, but it also requires a great deal of responsibility. We hope...Read the guide
Obesity in CatsWSAVA has developed a helpful body condition score chart as a reference.Read the guide
Recommended Preventative Care for CatsWhat we recommend for your cat: FeLV, FVRCP, and rabies vaccines, FIV testing, parasite screening, blood work, and home dental care.Read the guide
Seizures in CatsWhat is a seizure? Seizures are one of the most frequently seen neurological problems in cats. A seizure is also known as a convulsion or fit. It may have...Read the guide
Questions about anything here? Contact our team — we’re glad to help.