Recommended Preventative Care for Cats

Regular preventative care is essential to promoting the long-term health and well-being of your pet. At Hope Animal Medical Center, we recommend:
Annual fecal exam for screening of intestinal parasites Many intestinal parasites can be detected with a microscopic examination of a small stool sample. An annual fecal exam allows for rapid diagnosis and treatment if parasites are present. Most cats with parasites have normal stool.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) testing Many shelter kittens are screened for these infectious diseases between six and eight weeks of age. However, since false positive results can occur, kittens should be retested after 13 weeks. There is no cure for FIV or FeLV.
Annual Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) vaccine Feline leukemia virus is one of the most common fatal diseases of cats. Because the illness is transmitted primarily through fighting, vaccination is strongly recommended for outdoor cats.
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis/Calcivirus/Panleukopenia (FVRCP) vaccine every year This vaccine protects your cat against many feline illnesses, including distemper (panleukopenia). Initially, this vaccine should be administered to kittens prior to one year of age. Revaccination should occur every year.
Rabies vaccine every year Regular blood work and urine screening tests We recommend one blood panel and urine screening test on each pet before six months of age and then every one to two years as needed. 
Monthly flea and internal parasite control We recommend Program for life. This will protect your cat against fleas. Adulticide flea control may be used as needed. Interceptor, an antiparasitic medication, should also be used to protect against intestinal parasites and heartworms.
Regular home dental care Daily brushing is recommended for the health and maintenance of your cat’s teeth. In addition, a thorough COHAT dental cleaning is recommended for most pets by three to four years of age.