🩺 Basic health

See the vet at least once a year, even if all seems well.

Why? Cats are experts at hiding illness. Regular check-ups catch problems early, while they’re easier to treat.

Source: [4][5][7]

Ask for a check-up plan that fits your cat’s age.

Why? Kittens, young adults (1–6), mature adults (7–10) and seniors (10+) need different care.

Source: [5]

Every cat, indoor ones too, needs the core vaccines.

Why? Core vaccines protect against panleukopenia and “cat flu”, highly contagious diseases that can kill. Panleukopenia virus survives a long time in the environment.

Source: [1][2]

Ask your vet about rabies and optional vaccines.

Why? Optional vaccines such as FeLV only make sense with a real risk, like going outdoors or living with many cats.

Source: [1][2][6]

Kittens need a series of shots; your vet sets the dates.

Why? Antibodies from mother’s milk block vaccines at first, then fade, so booster timing matters.

Source: [1]

Ask your vet when to neuter your cat.

Why? Cats can get pregnant from about four months. Neutering prevents unwanted litters and cuts womb infections, mammary tumours, fighting and roaming.

Source: [3]

Ask your vet about worm and flea prevention.

Why? Outdoor cats pick up fleas, ticks and infections more easily. Your vet will choose a product that suits your cat.

Source: [4]

Never give your cat human medicine.

Why? Only use medicines your vet prescribes. Suspect poisoning? Call the vet at once.

Source: [4]

Drinking far more than usual? See the vet.

Why? More than about 100 ml per kg of body weight a day is too much. Kidney disease, diabetes or an overactive thyroid can be the cause.

Source: [8]

Sleeping more, avoiding jumps, grumpy? Your cat may be in pain.

Why? Cats hide pain such as arthritis. A lasting change in routine is a reason to see the vet.

Source: [7]

Vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy for over two days: see the vet.

Why? These are signs of illness that need checking. Go sooner if your cat stops eating completely.

Source: [4]