Preventive Care for Cats

Help your cat live a longer, happier life.

Preventive care is an essential part of keeping your cat happy and healthy.

How often should my cat see a veterinarian?

At El Cerrito Veterinary Hospital, we make our preventive care recommendations using the guidelines established by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Our veterinarians then further customize their recommendations based on factors specific to your dog including their age, lifestyle, and medical history.

We recommend cats see the vet at least once each year to review their medical history, assess behavior, make dietary recommendations, and evaluate any known health conditions. An annual exam is also required by law to refill prescriptions such as flea and tick prevention.

What should I expect from a preventive cat care exam?

Think of your cat’s annual exam like your own yearly physical. At the appointment, we’ll read their temperature, examine their eyes, ears, teeth, and skin, listen to their heart and lungs, and evaluate their joint health.

You can also expect your veterinarian to make recommendations for:

• Vaccines based on your cat’s lifestyle or breed. Core vaccines include rabies and feline distemper, although your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccines like feline leukemia (FeLV)
• Parasite prevention products to keep your cat safe from fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, and heartworms
• Diagnostic testing to identify any health conditions that cannot be detected during a physical exam and to confirm your cat is free from internal parasites

At your cat's annual exam, your veterinarian will answer any questions you may have and discuss other services that could improve their overall health such as spaying/neutering, microchipping, and dental care.

Call us at 619-466-0533 or request an appointment online to schedule your cat's annual preventive care exam.