FAQ: Health for cats

Yes, cat fleas can bite people too, usually on the legs around the ankles, but they do not live on humans. If you notice bites, treat all pets and the home, and ask a doctor or pharmacist about itchy bites.

Until the application site has dried, children should not touch the cat or sleep with it, and hands should be washed after stroking. The product label states the exact time and precautions.

Many product labels say they should not be used on sick or weakened cats. If your cat is ill, recently had surgery or takes other medicines, choose a parasite product only after talking to a vet.

A dehydrated cat has dry, tacky gums, its eyes may look sunken, and a gently lifted fold of skin on the neck returns slowly. Dehydration often comes with vomiting, diarrhoea or illness, so such a cat needs to see a vet urgently.

Itching can be caused not only by fleas but also by other mites, food or environmental allergy, fungus or dry skin. Constant scratching and sores are a reason to see a vet rather than trying products one after another.

Medicated shampoos, for example for fungal or bacterial skin infections, are used only when prescribed by a vet and following their instructions on how often to use them and how long to leave them on. A healthy cat rarely needs shampoo at all.

A pregnant or nursing cat is usually advised to eat kitten food, which has more energy and nutrients. Do not give extra calcium or vitamins without a vet’s advice, as excess can be harmful.

Set up a box or bed in a quiet spot with easily changed towels or disposable pads, and have clean towels and your vet’s number at hand. If the cat strains hard for more than half an hour without a kitten, call the vet.

No, unlike people, cats make hardly any vitamin D from sunlight and get it from their food. A complete food contains enough, and excess vitamin D is dangerous for a cat.

Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, and a lack of it can cause heart and retinal disease. It is added to complete cat food, so a cat fed dog food or only home-made food may not get enough.

Brewer’s yeast contains B vitamins and is often used as a base for treats or supplements to support the coat. A healthy cat on a complete diet does not need it, and it is unsuitable for cats with a yeast allergy.

The effects of cannabidiol in cats are still little studied, and product quality and composition vary widely. Some may contain substances or additives dangerous to cats, so be sure to talk to a vet before giving such a product.

The label should clearly state that it is for cats and list the full ingredients, amounts of active substances, daily amount, manufacturer and expiry date. Be wary of products that promise to cure diseases.

Easily digestible veterinary food is given to cats after diarrhoea or vomiting, with pancreatic or bowel disease, or during recovery. Use it on a vet’s recommendation and for as long as they advise.

A cat’s cough is often confused with trying to bring up a hairball. If the cat coughs with its neck stretched out and its body close to the ground, coughs often or wheezes, it may be asthma or a respiratory disease and needs a vet.

Catnip is safe for cats and gives many of them a short burst of playfulness or relaxation. It is not a medicine, and some cats do not react to it at all; a cat that eats a lot may vomit or get diarrhoea.

Patchy hair loss can be caused by flea allergy, ringworm, over-grooming from stress or pain, or hormonal disease. Because the causes vary so much, see a vet before buying products.

Vitamin treats are mostly just treats with a small additive and do not replace a complete food. They contain calories, so give them in moderation – treats should make up only a small part of the daily ration.

For indoor cats a trim every few weeks is usually enough, while outdoor cats often wear their claws down themselves. Trim only the sharp clear tip and provide a scratching post, which helps keep claws in shape.

After spaying or neutering cats gain weight more easily, so food for neutered cats and more play may suit them. Parasite prevention, vaccinations and dental care stay just as important.