3 Veterinary Tests That Every New Cat Should Get

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

When your new cat comes home, it’s necessary to take her to the vet for a health check. Here are the tests you need to ask your veterinarian to run on your kitty.

When you bring any new cat into your family, such as when you adopt a stray kitty or one that doesn’t have a medical history, your vet can perform a variety of tests to determine the health status of your new pet.

This is important in order to give your cat the best care possible and to target health conditions so that you can treat them right away without wasting any time. And this is also important if you’re introducing a new kitty into your existing feline family, as you don’t want to risk transmitting any illnesses.

What are some of the recommended veterinary tests that you can expect your vet might want to perform when you bring a new cat into your family?

Head to Tail Physical Exam

When your vet meets your new kitty for the first time, he or she will perform a thorough physical exam to determine your pet’s state of health from nose to tail. This includes weighing your cat to check if he’s underweight or overweight.

Related:Two Infectious Illnesses You Should Know About

Your vet will check that your cat’s heart and lungs sound healthy, and will also see if the animal is suffering from any external parasites like ticks and fleas. He or she will then take a look at your cat’s mouth to ensure the teeth and gums are healthy, and will also look at the eyes to make sure that they’re bright and clear.

The way your cat looks on the outside will give your vet clues to underlying health issues, so this is an important step in ensuring your new pet is doing well.

Blood Test

A screening blood test is a good way for your vet to look for any signs that would indicate your new cat might have a medical condition, even if the symptoms have not manifested yet. For example, this test could help your vet determine the health of your cat’s thyroid and kidneys, as well as point to early signs of illnesses like diabetes. This is especially helpful for older kitties who are adopted.

Related:Which Feline Vaccinations Are Really Necessary?

Many vets today also recommend performing a blood test prior to having your new pet spayed or neutered. The test will help the vet gauge the animal’s current state of health and his ability to be under anesthesia for the surgery.

Tests for Parasites

A fecal exam is also recommended for a new cat, as this simple test will determine whether or not the animal has any internal parasites that could be harmful to his health and that could be transferred to humans and other pets in the household. Your vet may also recommend testing for heartworm infection.

Some parasitic infections, such as roundworms, will result in your cat eliminating worms in the stool or in vomit. But even if you don’t notice any evidence of worms in your pet’s vomit or stool, this test is recommended, particularly to check for protozoa like Toxoplasma and Giardia.

In the event that your cat tests positive for worms or intestinal parasites, your vet will prescribe the appropriate medications to get rid of them as quickly as possible.

Testing for Infectious Diseases

Another test that your vet may recommend for your new cat is a simple blood test that will check for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). These diseases weaken a feline’s immune system, leaving him more vulnerable to a variety of other health problems. And because they can be transferred from one cat to another, it’s important to know whether or not your cat is infected, especially if you’re introducing him to a multi-cat household.

Your vet may also suggest performing other tests, depending upon your new cat’s state of health and medical history. Be sure to take advantage of the first veterinary checkup, as it’s a perfect opportunity to ask any questions you have regarding the care that you need to provide to keep your cat happy and healthy.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Exmoor Pony

The Exmoor Pony is a rare and endangered breed. They are also considered kind, even-tempered, smart, and alert animals that get along well with everyone

Hydrated Hounds Need Replenishing TORUS Water Bowl

Does your dog lap more water onto the floor than in his mouth? Heyrex''s TORUS water bowl takes a ""licking"" and keeps on kicking... with fresh water on demand.

Green Rumped Parrotlet

The Green Rumped Parrotlet - or ""pocket parrot""- is bound to capture your heart with their cuteness, silly mimics, and affectionate personality.

Ask the Animal Communicator: My Indoor Cat Wants To Go Outside

From the outside looking in, the life of your pampered indoor cat might look so sublime. But from the inside looking out, you may find yourself wondering i…

Ray Fish

Rays are a large group of fish closely related to sharks. Ray fish are characterized by their flat bodies and a tough, elastic skeleton made of cartilage.

Best Leather Dog Leashes

Leather dog leashes are a stylish, durable, and convenient solution for keeping our pets under control on walks- here is out selection of the best options.

Best Dog Bowls

Dog bowls come in all shapes, sizes, designs, and materials- find out how to choose one that will be the best match for your pet''s needs.?

Eastern Rosella

Incredibly adorable, playful and quite unique, the Eastern Rosella is becoming a rapidly popular choice for a feathered companion.

Wee-Chon

The Wee-Chon is a cross between a purebred Bichon Frise and West Highland White Terrier. An energetic, affectionate, and playful little dog.

What Is Dog Bite Liability Insurance?

If your dog bites someone, it can bite into your finances - is Dog Bite Liability Insurance necessary for you? Find out to protect yourself and your dog.

Best Dog Beds

Dog beds give your pet a place of their own where they can nap and snooze to their heart''s content. Here are the 10 best dog beds on the market!

5 Reasons Why Your Cat May Be Losing Weight

Many cat owners are worried that their felines are too fat - but what do you do if your kitty is losing weight unintentionally? This needs a closer look.

EzyDog’s Zero Shock Dog Leash Absorbs Lunges, Pulls, and Yanks

Perfect for dogs who have their own agendas while walking, EzyDog''s Zero Shock Dog Leash absorbs pulling while minimizing neck and throat damage.

Take The Itch Out Of These Common Dog Allergies

Let''s go over the most common dog allergies you''ll come across, what kind of symptoms you can expect to see and what you can do about them.

BIXBI: Damn Near Perfect Dog Food For A Lot Of Reasons

We’re always looking to find dog foods that our dogs love, are good for them and are affordably priced. Our dogs’ health is important to us, and…