Home Health Checks for Your Cat: A Step-by-Step Guide by Dr. Karyn Kanowski

What You’ll Need

• A reliable watch or clock to check vital signs.
• A rectal thermometer, though alternative methods can be used if this proves too stressful for your cat.

Step-by-Step Health Assessment

1. Checking Temperature, Pulse, and Respiration (TPR)

Start with the basics: heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature. These vital signs provide quick insight into your cat’s current health status:

• Heart Rate: Locate your cat’s pulse along the femoral artery and count the beats per minute.
• Respiratory Rate: Observe your cat while sleeping and count the breaths per minute to avoid stress-related fluctuations.
• Temperature: Gently use a lubricated rectal thermometer. If your cat becomes distressed, feel the temperature of their ears, nose, and paw pads as a less invasive check.

2. Gum Health

Look at your cat’s gums, which should be moist and salmon pink. This is also a great time to check capillary refill time by gently pressing on the gums and noting how quickly the color returns.

3. Eye Examination

Ensure your cat’s eyes are clear and bright. Check pupil response to light and your cat’s blink reflex to assess basic neurological functions.

4. Abdominal Check

Gently press along your cat’s abdomen to identify any discomfort, bloating, or unusual firmness, which could indicate digestive issues.

5. Skin and Coat Analysis

Examine your cat’s skin and coat for redness, bald patches, or excessive greasiness. These could be signs of allergies or skin diseases.

6. Musculoskeletal Evaluation

Watch how your cat moves, and gently feel along the spine and limbs for signs of pain or discomfort, indicative of potential joint or muscle issues.

7. Neurological Health

Test your cat’s reflexes such as the conscious proprioception test, placing a paw upside down on the floor to see if it is correctly repositioned immediately.

Conclusion and Further Steps

While these home checks are helpful for maintaining your pet’s health between veterinary visits, they do not replace professional medical assessments. Record your findings and discuss any concerns with your veterinarian, as early detection plays a critical role in the effective management of health issues.

Additional Tips for Effective Home Health Checks

Keep a detailed record of each check-up to monitor your cat’s health over time. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in behavior or physical health. They will provide expert advice and next steps, ensuring your cat receives the best possible care.