Pet Health Information

Spraying and Urine Marking - Spraying and urine marking, every cat owner's biggest fear, is generally avoided by good litter cleaning habits and having the cat neutered. Make an appointment with one of our doctors to further evaluate the problem.

Hairballs - Investing in a fine metal flea comb and using it regularly best prevents hairballs, which means every day in a longhaired cat, and every few days for shorter hair. This is also a way to prevent matting in longhaired cats and to reduce hair shedding on the furniture. Laxatone should be used weekly during shedding season.

Bathing - Bathing is not usually necessary as cats keep themselves clean. They can be very frightened by water and when restrained in the tub. If it becomes necessary, you may be better off leaving washing and dipping to someone who is very experienced. We are always happy to bath and dip your cat at Hickory Veterinary Hospital.

Neutering - Neutering (castration of males and spaying of females) can be done at six months and is strongly advised. It will keep the boys from spraying and the girls from coming into heat. It also reduces roaming and fighting tendencies in males.

Declawing - Declawing can be done at six months along with neutering. It is often a controversial subject. Cat owners who like to have their cats declawed do so because they find that the cats are climbing on their furniture, draperies, up their legs, etc., and causing damage. It also makes playing with cats safer because when they swat they will hit with a soft paw instead of a sharp claw, something to consider when children or other pets are involved. It is usually only necessary to remove the nails from the front paws. It is routine surgery, after which we hospitalize the cat for two nights to change bandages and insure a good start on healing. All indoor cats, whether declawed or not, need something to scratch. Cats tend to like softwood or sisal rope surfaces the best. We do not recommend declawing cats who go outside as they may need their claws to defend themselves or escape up a tree.

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