Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
A TRANQUILIZER
MAY HELP
If you have a cat who acts up when taken to a veterinary clinic,
you should consider medicating him beforehand with a mild
tranquilizer. It is not good for the cat to be stressed, and it is more
difficult—if not impossible—for the veterinarian to do a good job
with an uncooperative patient. Let your vet know if you have
tranquilized your cat. Also be sure to warn veterinary staff before
they handle your cat if he has a history of fractious behavior.
Let the professional veterinary staff handle your cat during any vet-
erinary visit. Many animals become scared and defensive when they are
outside their own homes and become fractious. Owners are often bit-
ten or scratched by their own cats when they try to help hold the ani-
mal during an exam. Experienced animal assistants and veterinarians are
trained to manage these situations. The best way you can assist is by
talking to your pet in a calm, reassuring voice.
At the end of a physical exam the veterinarian should discuss any
abnormal findings and assess the general health of the cat. If you do not
understand what the doctor has told you, be sure to ask questions. I like
it when clients ask me questions, because then I know that they are
paying attention to what I have told them.
I also like it when clients come to the physical exam appointment
armed with questions.A veterinarian and her staff should be a resource
for information on all aspects of caring for your cat, including nutri-
tion and behavior.Write down any questions you have on these issues
and bring them along to discuss during your cat's annual physical
exam.This prevents you from going home and wishing you had asked
the doctor something about your cat that you forgot during the
appointment.
VIRAL TESTING
Testing for the feline leukemia (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency
(FIV) viruses may be part of an annual exam.Your cat's status regarding
these two viruses should be known.There is an in-clinic screening test
for these viruses, and it only takes a few drops of blood and 10 minutes
