Library
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Cats that exhibit repetitive behaviors that are difficult to interrupt may be diagnosed with a compulsive disorder. Many of these behaviors have a physical basis and a thorough medical examination is always important. Anxiety and frustration can also contribute to the development of compulsive disorders.
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Urine marking is a form of communication for cats and can be used to establish territory and communicate social and sexual status. House cats may mark when there is social conflict in the home, or when they experience anxiety or frustration. Medical conditions, particularly those associated with pain, can trigger marking. It is important to learn the motivation for marking in order to find an effective treatment plan.
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Many cats are active through the night. Often, they have slept all day and are not tired at night. Enrichment that includes social play and interactive toys can help solve the problem. A medical and behavioral workup should be done if your cat has only recently begun to be active at night, as there may be an underlying illness.
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Scratching is normal feline behavior. Cats use their claws to mark territory, climb to safety, hunt prey, and stretch their bodies. However, this behavior may be problematic inside the house. This handout outlines behavioral approaches to help with scratching. If you notice changes in your cat's pattern of scratching, check with your veterinarian.
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Cats vocalize to communicate. Vocalizing can be problematic when it interferes with people's sleep. Often, the behavior develops due to unintentional reinforcement, but could also reflect underlying illness, particularly if it is a new behavior. Both a medical exam and a behavioral work-up are needed.
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A Cat Friendly Practice is a voluntary designation through the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA). To earn the Cat Friendly Practice designation, a veterinary practice must demonstrate that they have taken specific steps to understand cats' unique needs and have implemented feline-friendly standards of care.
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Treats are a great way to bond with your cat but are an additional source of calories that must be considered within the overall diet. Treats should be no more than10% of your cat's daily calorie intake and, in greater quantities, can create a nutritional imbalance.
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A cat-only veterinary practice is typically designed with cat comfort in mind. Feline practices are especially interested in delivering medical care to cats in ways that help your cat (and human family members) experience as little stress as possible.
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This handout discusses some of the many hazards for cats who live outdoors, including wild animals, infections, parasites, toxins, and cars, among others. In our modern world, the risks of an outdoor life are far greater than the benefits.
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Periodontal disease is the most common problem affecting cats of all age groups. The importance of daily, at-home dental care cannot be overemphasized. Cats may benefit from either a food, treat, water additive, gel or powder that has been approved by the VOHC to reduce plaque buildup.