While regular health exams performed by your veterinarian are necessary to maintaining your cat in good health, you can still play an important role as guardian of your cat's well-being.
Performing an at-home physical is likely much easier than you might think. You, after all, know your cat best and understand the subtleties of habits and behaviour of your particular friend. You know what's *normal* for your kitty. With this knowledge in mind, you are in the best position to assess your cat on a day-to-day basis by performing the following quick and easy "mini-physical".
Before you begin...here are few tips:
- Don't restrain your cat while you are examining him/her -- let this be an extension of the regular attention you give your kitty. Remember, you needn't do a full exam all at once...it can be spread out over a few days.
- No fighting allowed -- if a struggle ensues, accept that your time is up and don't insist on finishing. A struggle means that you have outstayed your welcome!
- Never attempt an examination after a play session -- the best time is when kitty is already quiet and relaxed. Sneak a quick exam in while the two of you are cuddled up watching television or reading the newspaper.
Now.... what to look for:
Skin and Hair
It helps if you already have a regular grooming ritual -- and if you don't, why not start one? This gives you the easiest way to assess the condition of your friends' skin and haircoat. Close inspection will reveal such abnormalities as lumps and bumps, balding patches or fleas. Pay special attention to your cats' belly as mammary tumours are a concern for females - especially those that are unspayed or were spayed later in life (ie. after 6 months of age). Don't forget your kitty's nether-regions - it's not considered too personal to inspect her rear end -- check for cleanliness, especially in long-haired cats. A lack of attention to personal hygiene may be a sign that your cat is either disinterested or unable to groom properly -- both of which need to be addressed.
Next, inspect her feet and toes to check for ingrown toenails. This is of special concern with older cats and those who are polydactyl (extra toes).
Eyes and Ears
Eyes should be clear and without tearing or discharge. Pupils should be of equal size and react the same to changes in light. If your cat appears to be squinting or the third eyelid has drawn over the surface of the eye, this may be a sign of disease or disorder. Unless the ears are pigmented, the inner surface should be a light pink and without odour or discharge.
Say "Aaahhh"
It rarely occurs to most people to inspect the inside of their cats' mouth -- indeed, for some, it would be a perilous venture! IF your cat will permit, without risk of injury to either of you, it's a good idea to keep an eye on what goes on behind those lips. Gums, like all healthy tissue, should be light pink, with no sign of redness or swelling and teeth should be free of tartar build-up. Become familiar with the *normal* odour of your cats' breath. Even with a clean and healthy mouth, cat-breath will never be minty fresh, but neither should it be unbearably horrific. Broken, loose or missing teeth should be noted, as should any evidence of pain or discomfort. While drooling is normal for some cats while in the throes of your love and attention, excessive drooling may be an indicator of a disease process.
In a very short amount of time and with minimal effort, this quick exam can provide you with an overall picture of your cats' day-to-day health. Also worth noting are ANY changes in activity level, appetite or thirst, litterbox habits, grooming behaviour or general attitude. Cats are, by nature, creatures of habit so any variation from the norm should be considered significant. When in doubt, a visit to your veterinarian is in order.
Adapted from CatWatch, Cornell University- College of Veterinary Medicine, Vol. 13, No.7, July, 2009.
