Preventative Medicine
If your cat frequents areas accessible to other animals, it will almost certainly be exposed to parasites and diseases.
All cats should be inoculated against the most common viral infections, enteritis and flu. Outdoor cats face greater hazards.
Feline leukemia virus (Fe LV) is transmitted in saliva, through bites or even mutual grooming and licking. Ensure that your cat is protected against this potentially fatal infection, and also against rabies in areas where it is a risk.
Fleas and other skin parasites are an additional hazard, and cat fleas enjoy meals from a variety of mammals, especially dogs and people. Use the modern, fast-acting treatments, which are highly effective.
The most common tapeworm is ingested by eating fleas, while roundworms are passed from mother to kittens and through contaminated feces. Both can be controlled with effective wormers.