Cat Blog 11e
My cat’s health
We know that our cat’s health is of paramount importance. But how do we make sure our pet remains as healthy as possible for as long as possible?
I’m no expert, of course, so I’ll only provide you with some of the guidelines that I’ve found helpful over the years.
Probably the most important thing you can do to keep your pet healthy, is feeding him or her quality food. See for example https://iamcat.blog/what-do-i-feed-my-cat/. This one thing will go a long way towards ensuring that your pet visits the vet as seldom as possible.
It is generally recommended that a kitten should receive his or her first inoculation and deworming at 8 weeks. Give them boosters a month later, and then every 3 years until the age of 7.
You could also research the subject of cat health on the net, of course! See for example https://www.hillcrestanimals.com/site/blog-memphis-vet/2020/03/12/how-to-tell-if-your-cat-is-sick.
Ideally you should take your pet for a veterinary check-up every 6 months. Also consult your vet about anything out of the ordinary. Look out for signs such as repeated sneezing, runny eyes, congested nose or loss of appetite. In fact, look out for any change in your cat’s demeanour or behaviour. If you notice anything, take your cat to the vet as soon as possible; quick action could prevent serious illness.
Keep ticks and fleas at bay with the help of one of the excellent products available from your vet. Examples are Broadline, Advantage and Revolution. Many vets recommend deworming at least twice a year. Some highly respected veterinary specialists recommend deworming only when you’re sure your cat actually has worms, however.
And lastly: speak to your vet if you’re worried! Many vets will allow you to consult with them provisionally over the phone. This would mean that you don’t have to take your cat to the clinic immediately. That can be a big help if finances are tight, as they are for most of us!
Cat quote of the week
What greater gift than the love of a cat?
Unknown
Cat Story 20: Jenny Reimers and her 99 ferals
If you’re based in Joburg, this story is coming to you with a prayer!
Over the past year or two I’ve had the privilege of chatting to Jenny Reimers by e-mail. I say ‘privilege’ because, although I’ve never met her, Jenny’s love for and dedication to each of the approximately 90-100 community (‘feral’) cats she cares for daily shine through like pure light.
The main reason why we’ve been mailing one another is that I’ve been trying to find Jenny some help with the superhuman task she’s set herself. Thus far, I haven’t had much success. And it’s an additional worry that we have a deadline looming: Jenny’s retirement. Subsequently she’ll be relocating and will no longer be able to continue feeding and sterilising.
JENNY AND ‘HER’ FERALS NEED OUR HELP!
For many years now, Jenny has been spending all her ‘spare’ funds on cats in need. She says: ‘My life is centred around the kitties I feed’. She’s terrified that she will not find caregivers who will take over the labour of love from her.
The time has now come for younger and stronger cat lovers to enable Jenny to retire with all the peace of mind she deserves!
This is where she’s feeding at the moment (either as sole feeder or with some help):
Woodmead
± 17 kitties – Makro (sole feeder)
± 3 kitties – McDonalds (shared feeding)
± 3 kitties – Kentucky (sole feeder)
± 6 kitties – Segars (sole feeder)
± 3 kitties – Woolworths (shared feeding)
± 10 kitties – Pickitup (sole feeder)
± 10 kitties – Country Club Estate (opposite Woodlands Office Park) (sole feeder)
Edenvale
± 10 kitties – Senderwood scrap yard (shared feeding)
± 12 kitties – Edenvale (Checkers Hyper, receiving area) (sole feeder)
± 15 kitties – Primrose Primary (sole feeder)
± 10 kitties – 3J Computer Supplies, Sunnyrock Close (Sole feeder with food provided by a caring person)
If you or anyone you know can help with one or more of the above stations, won’t you please contact me at anneke@ncat.co.za? I will then put you in touch with Jenny directly.
Sending you thanks and blessings in advance!
And so we’ve come to the end of this series of I am Cat blogs. My most sincere thanks to all of you who have sent me feedback, questions and encouragement. It’s been an absolute pleasure sharing with you such knowledge as I’ve acquired on the subjects covered here. I hope it has helped you in caring for some of the amazing cats that share your life and your love.