ArcaMax

3. Weight checks: About 60 percent of indoor cats are overweight or obese, which can impact quality of life or even lifespan. A few extra pounds can be difficult for owners to detect, yet have significant health effects. Read more at: http://www.catvets.com/cat-owners/disease-and-conditions/felineobesity

4. Kitty playgrounds: Addressing a cat's physical, emotional and environmental needs enhances the pet's health and quality of life. Offer outlets for natural behaviors. Read more about the five pillars of a healthy feline environment at: http://www.catvets.com/cat-owners/caring-for-cats/environmental-needs

5. Get the scoop: Litter box habits offer a look into your cat's psyche. If a cat is missing the box or there's any a change in the pet's litter box habits, these may signal a medical issue and/or anxiety, so see your vet. Read more at: http://www.catvets.com/public/PDFs/ClientBrochures/HouseSoiling-WebView.pdf

6. Cats aren't finicky: While some cats are fastidious about food, there may be a medical explanation for any new erratic eating behaviors (unless the cat has always been this way). The pet could have a gastrointestinal problem, diabetes, a dental issue, or any number of other problems. Don't wait to contact your veterinarian. And never allow a cat to go more than 24-hours without eating, as a fatal liver disease can occur.

7. Brush up: Periodontal disease is the most common disease in cats over 3 years old. If a cat's breath isn't fresh as a daisy, the pet may be silently suffering from painful teeth or gums, or another medical issue. Read more at: http://www.catvets.com/cat-owners/caring-for-cats/dental-care

8. To sleep or not to sleep: Vocalizing overnight, or changes in your cat's sleep/wake cycle may be signs of illness. In older cats, this can also indicate feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome ("kitty Alzheimer's"). The sooner your veterinarian can diagnose the problem, the better.

9. Give your cat the best: It's worth sniffing out a Cat Friendly Practice. These veterinary clinics have made a commitment to pay more attention to their feline clients. Read more at: http://www.catvets.com/cfp/cat-owners/cat-owners-benefits

10. Reduce stressful vet visits: Nearly 60 percent of owners say their cats hate visiting the vet. That stress starts at home, and the good news is, you can even acclimate adult cats to carriers. Read more at: http://www.catvets.com/cat-owners/behavior-and-care-tips/getting-your-cat-to-the-vet

There's lots more info at the AAFP website (www.catvets.org) or Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CatVets

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