Cat VITALITY

CATS TEND TO BE fairly independent creatures who often just like being left alone. And while it may seem like they can take care of themselves, your cat needs your help to live a long and happy life. There are a few simple ways you can ensure your cat is strong and healthy.

Healthy weight
Feline obesity is one of the most common nutritional disorders for cats and can lead to skin problems, arthritis, diabetes, subtle immune deficiencies and cardio-respiratory problems.
Kittens may require twice the calories than adult cats. Kittens are active and burn calories quickly. If you have an adult cat who is on the lazy side, watch his diet and look out for unwanted weight gain.

Cats love to sleep for hours in the sun and laze around, but you should try to keep your cat active. Provide toys, climbing trees and boxes for play. Or, get involved and have your cat chase the light from a laser pointer. Activity will lead to a better physique and possibly improved mental strength.

Cats love to play, so provide a safe environment for them. They can easily get their little paws into anything.

• Place toxic plants out of reach.
• Lock cupboards and close up small spaces where your kitty can get stuck.
• Cover electrical cords with tubing or keep them off the ground. Kittens especially love to chew on them.
• Keep lids to the toilet, garbage cans, washer and dryer closed.
• Keep toxic cleaning products out of reach.
• Watch your open flames. A lighted candle can singe Kitty's whiskers pretty quickly.

Strong immune system
All cats should receive their regular vaccinations, but this is especially important if you have an outdoor cat. Rabies, parvovirus and leukemia are all preventable diseases.

Easy digestion
You may want to give your kitty a treat once in a while, but offering 'people food' can be harmful,
leading to obesity, intestinal upsets and nutritional imbalances.

Healthy heart
Cats are strict carnivores and require nutrients found in animal protein sources. Taurine is an essential amino acid critical for a healthy heart. Cats do not manufacture enough taurine in their body so choose a food with animal-based proteins.

Healthy Teeth
Your cat's gums should be pink and his teeth should be white and free of cracks. Bad breath and swallowing food whole are signs your cat might be having dental problems.

Certain foods and treats are available that will help with teeth cleaning, however, if you begin training early, you can actually brush your cat's teeth. Start by massaging the outside of your cat's mouth. If he seems comfortable, wrap a tissue around your finger and try touching his gums. From there, you can move to cat toothpaste and eventually a cat toothbrush.

If your cat won't let you put your hands anywere near him, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have his teeth cleaned.

Shiny coat
A healthy coat is a necessity. A balance of Omega fatty acids are important for promoting good haircoat quality. Brush your cat often to help control hairballs, digestive problems and matted hair.

You can brush out mats, but it takes time. Using scissors to cut out a mat should be your very last option. Cutting out mats can be dangerous because cats move quickly.

If your cat is obese or has arthritis, he may not be able to clean himself properly. If this is the case, you may opt to have him shaved twice a year.

Pests can be a problem and affect your cat's skin and coat. Outdoor cats can pick up fleas easily and indoor cats can catch fleas from other furry visitors. Watch for excessive scratching and be sure to use a flea preventative.

Strong bones
Aging cats in particular need help with bone and joint care. Encourage activity, but also provide a healthy diet. A lean cat will put less pressure on his joints.