Preventative for Cats
Cats are masters at hiding illness, which makes regular preventative care essential. At Perry Vet, our feline wellness services help catch problems before they show obvious symptoms and ensure your cat stays current on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care. Whether your cat lives indoors only or goes outside, consistent preventative care makes a real difference in their long-term health.
Wellness Exams
We recommend an annual wellness exam for healthy adult cats and more frequent visits for kittens and senior cats. During a wellness exam, your veterinarian will perform a full physical evaluation covering eyes, ears, teeth and gums, coat and skin, weight, and overall body condition. It is also an opportunity to review your cat's vaccination status, discuss parasite prevention, and flag any changes in behavior, appetite, or litter box habits that may warrant further attention.
How Often Should My Cat Be Seen?
Kittens
Up to one year old. Visits every 3 to 4 weeks until the initial vaccine series is complete, then annually.
Adult Cats
Ages 1 to 7. Annual wellness exam recommended.
Senior Cats
Age 7 and older. Bi-annual exams recommended to monitor for age-related changes.
Vaccinations
Vaccines protect your cat from serious and potentially fatal diseases. Newborn kittens receive antibodies from their mother's milk, but those antibodies only last a few weeks or months, making it important to start vaccinations early. We follow a schedule that meets New York State requirements and accounts for your cat's age, lifestyle, and risk of exposure.
What Do These Vaccines Cover?
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Commonly called the "distemper shot," this combination vaccine protects against three diseases: Distemper (highly contagious and potentially fatal, especially in kittens), Rhinotracheitis (a respiratory disease that causes sneezing and discharge from the eyes and nose), and Calicivirus (causes fever, excessive salivation, and mouth ulcers).
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A viral disease that weakens the immune system and can lead to anemia, cancer, and increased susceptibility to other infections. Infected cats are unable to resist other diseases and may die from complications. Particularly important for cats that go outdoors or live with other cats.
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A fatal viral disease that attacks the nervous system. All cats, including those who reside only indoor, are required by New York State law to be vaccinated against rabies.
Parasite Prevention
Even indoor cats are at risk for certain parasites, and outdoor cats face additional exposure. Prevention is far easier and less expensive than treatment, and some parasites can also be transmitted to people.
Fleas
Fleas can be acquired from the environment, even indoors, and a cat infested with fleas may scratch or bite excessively in an attempt to get relief. Fleas can also cause allergic reactions that lead to severe skin irritation. An indication that your cat may have fleas is the presence of small black flecks that look like pepper clinging to the fur. We can recommend appropriate preventive products to stop an infestation before it starts.
Ear Mites
Ear mites are a common problem in cats, particularly those that have contact with other cats. A cat with ear mites will scratch at its ears or shake its head frequently, and you may notice dark brown or black wax buildup or an unpleasant odor. Since ear mites can lead to ear infections, it is important to treat them promptly.
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites can cause diarrhea, poor coat condition, and weight loss, and some can be transmitted to people, particularly children. Annual fecal testing allows us to detect and treat parasites early.
Dental Care
Dental disease is one of the most common health conditions in cats, yet it is largely preventable. Bacteria and plaque build up on teeth over time, leading to bad breath, inflamed gums, loose or damaged teeth, and in serious cases, infection that can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Professional dental cleanings performed by your veterinarian use an ultrasonic scaler to clean above and below the gumline in a way that home brushing cannot replicate. Cats can be resistant to home brushing, so starting early and using patience helps. We recommend regular professional cleanings as advised by your veterinarian based on your cat's oral health.
Nutrition and Weight Management
Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in cats and a significant risk factor for diabetes, liver disease, and joint problems. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout your cat's life is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health.
What and how much to feed your cat depends on their age, activity level, and whether they live indoors or go outside. Some cats do well with free-choice feeding, while others (particularly bored indoor cats) will overeat if food is always available. During your cat's wellness exam, we can evaluate their body condition and provide feeding guidance specific to their needs.
For detailed nutrition guidance by life stage, including kittens, adults, and seniors, visit our Pet Owner Resources section.
Behavioral Health
Changes in behavior can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. A cat that suddenly shows aggression, avoids the litter box, or changes its eating or grooming habits may be experiencing pain, stress, or an infection rather than a purely behavioral problem. Cats are particularly good at hiding illness, so changes in behavior are often one of the earliest signs that something is wrong. If you have noticed a change in your cat's behavior or temperament, mention it at your next visit — our team can help determine whether there is a medical cause.
For guidance on litter training, socialization, and understanding your cat's behavior, visit our Pet Owner Resources section.
New Pet? Start Here.
Bringing home a new kitten is exciting, and it comes with a lot of questions. Our Pet Owner Resources section includes new pet guides, nutrition information by life stage, and species-specific care tips to help you get started on the right foot.
Ready to Schedule?
Our team is accepting new feline patients at all of our locations. Whether you have a new kitten or a senior cat due for a checkup, we are here to help.